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 MixerHopton Street, London, SE1 9GZ, London
✨Welcome to The SWANA Queer Network!✨
We are excited for the next SWANA Queer Network Social Mixer Event. These events just get better and bigger. We look forward to seeing our regular joining friends as well as new friends we are ready to embrace.
Are you 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 London LGBTQ+ Community Centre at 60-62 Hopton Street, London, SE1 9JH on Friday 26th of September 2025 a 6pm-8.30pm.
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.
The theme of this event is SWANA Talent and Stories. There will be an opportunity for those who wish to share something about themselves, sing a song, showcase some art, talk about their new book, share a spoken word or just introduce themselves, to do so for 3 minutes each. But if you are happy to just mingle with others without taking part that's absolutely fine too! There will also be a quieter space provided for those who want to sit out at any point.
The venue sell very affordable teas and coffees. You are also welcome to bring drinks and snacks from home if you wish.
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.
Important: 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: The London LGBTQ+ Community Centre 60-62 Hopton Street, Blackfriars, SE1 9JH, London
On arrival you can identify the organiser who will be wearing a rainbow lanyard.
Transport: The London LGBTQ+ Community Centre is closest to Blackfriars National Rail Station and Blackfriars Underground station. It's also within walking distance of Waterloo, London Bridge, and Southwark stations
*Do check your travel route beforehand*When: Friday 26th September 2025. From 6pm to 8.30pm.
The venue is wheelchair accessible. 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. https://londonlgbtqcentre.org
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 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️
