WHO WE ARE
Young Queer Africans Weaving Liberated Realities
CHEVS is a youth-led feminist collective advancing LGBTQI+ equality across West Africa. We build agency and power with young LGBTQI+ Africans to shape their own futures and boldly confront inequalities.
From the start, we've stood alongside resilient activists and communities championing the fight for justice, dignity, and equality. Together, we are not just imagining collective liberation — we are building it, one action at a time.
OUR MISSION
We mobilise and strengthen LGBTQI+ communities for collective action towards achieving equality, freedom and justice, through movement building, advocacy, and narrative change.
HOW DOES CHANGE HAPPEN?
OUR VISION
A West Africa where everyone can live in safety, dignity and freedom, experiencing true liberation and abundance.
OUR VALUES
COURAGE
We stand firm in adversity and advocate for human rights despite challenging contexts. We embody the strength to be visible and vocal, challenging oppressive laws and norms.
COMMUNITY-CENTRED
Our work is grounded on the needs and aspirations of our communities. We listen, learn, and collaborate, ensuring that our efforts resonate with the lived realities of those we serve.
COLLECTIVE CARE & SOLIDARITY
We value communal support and acknowledge that our well-being is interconnected. We promote holistic care within our institution and community spaces; this is the backbone of our resistance.
INTERSECTIONALITY
We understand that inequalities intersect, creating complex challenges faced by queer individuals. We, therefore, embrace a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of sexual orientation, gender identity, race, class, and other aspects of identity in shaping the experiences of queer communities in West Africa.
OUR PARTNERS
Our work is made possible by feminist funds, government donors and foundations.
