What we’re about
✨This is a social group that welcomes all people from S.W.A.N.A regions, their lovers and diaspora. The groups aim is to celebrate our queer communities and bring people together. This group is a safe space to explore our experiences and create a support network. There will be lots of fun and laughter..so be sure to join us for social events✨
Note: S.W.A.N.A: Southwest Asian and North African
SWANA Queer Network is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and welcoming space for the SWANA LGBTQIA+ community. While our events are open to registered members and the public, and we strive to maintain a safe and supportive environment, some factors may be beyond our control.
To help ensure everyone’s comfort and safety, we have set out some safety tips and community standards we hope all can adhere to. Please familiarise yourself with the following:
Safety Tips:
1. Know the organisers: ensure you know who is organising the events and have a method of contacting them if required. Our team are available to message on this website or contacted via email address: swanaqueernetwork@gmail.com
2. Choose Public Places: If meeting members of the group outside of organised events opt for public venues such as cafés or parks rather than private spaces.
3. Inform Someone: Share your plans with a trusted friend or family member if you are meeting members outside of our organised events.
4. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, inform the SQN team, and don’t hesitate to leave or cancel.
5. Communicate Clearly: Use the Meetup platform for initial conversations and keep them respectful.
6. Attend Group Events: Start by joining organised group gatherings to get comfortable with the community.
7. Check Profiles (Meetup): Review participants’ profiles to understand their interests and backgrounds.
Community Standards:
1. Respect Privacy: Honour everyone’s decision to be “out” or not and maintain discretion when needed.
2. Use Inclusive Language: Respect and use correct pronouns, and be mindful of cultural and religious beliefs.
3. Protect Confidentiality: Do not share others’ contact details, profile pictures, or any content without permission. Explicit content of any kind is prohibited.
4. Foster Kindness: Refrain from body shaming or any form of shaming.
By following the above, we can collectively create a safer, more inclusive, and enjoyable environment for everyone. Thank you for your commitment to building a positive and supportive community! 🏳️🌈 🏳️⚧️
Find us on Instagram: swana_queer_network
Upcoming events (1)
See all- Queer Arab, Persian, Turkish, Kurdish and SWANA Social Mixer 🎂1 Year OnVictoria and Albert Museum, London
✨Welcome to The SWANA Queer Network!✨
We are excited for the SWANA Queer Network One Year Anniversary and hope you can join us to celebrate.
It has been an amazing journey. This community has truly grown into something beautiful.
Looking to make connections, find people with similar interests and be part of such a vibrant and welcoming community? Then come to the next SWANA Queer Network Social Mixer. This time we are at The Victoria and Albert Museum in South Kensington (where it all began). There will be cake to celebrate so don't miss it 🎂
This group welcomes LGBT+ people from S.W.A.N.A (South West Asia and North Africa) regions and their lovers. This social mixer is an opportunity to meet new people, make friends and connect.
Please try to arrive as early as possible, we usually advise that people arrive in the first 30 minutes so they don't miss out on essential intros and are able to locate us easily.
We will be sitting in the garden cafe where there will be an opportunity to get to know people and to grab a coffee or drink. People have the option of checking out the museum too!
The group typically continues to socialise after the main event at a nearby food and drinks venue. Please note that the event organisers are not responsible for co-ordinating this.
We ask that you read all of our safety tips and community standards prior to joining our events. This can be found in the groups description :)
Where: Victoria and Albert Museum, South Kensington, SW7 2RL.
We shall meet at The Victoria and Albert Museum Garden Cafe: https://www.vam.ac.uk/info/va-cafe/ (this is the garden area inside the museum). You can ask for directions at the reception if required.On arrival you can identify the organiser who will be wearing a rainbow lanyard.
Transport: The Nearest Underground Stations: South Kensington (5-minute walk), Gloucester Road (10-minute walk), Victoria Station (35-minute walk). *Do check your travel route beforehand*
When: Saturday 24th May 2025. From 1.30pm to 4.30pm.
If you have any questions relating to accessibility needs please contact the venue or the organiser who will do their best to advise and support. Information on accessibility can also be found here: https://www.vam.ac.uk/info/disability-access
If you have any other questions in general do not hesitate to contact the organiser: swanaqueersocial@gmail.com or by DM on here. Please accept there may be a delay in getting back to you.
Coming on your own and a little nervous? Please don't be everyone is friendly and we strive to create a welcoming atmosphere.
All groups welcomed. We hope to see you there 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️
