Testimonials
Here is a collection of what people had to say about the OK2BME program and their OK2BME experiences.
Counselling:
“Today’s visit was everything I was hoping for. Being asked about my pronouns made me feel welcomed and excited about what could have been otherwise stressful. I feel confident and excited about the plan we made today. Overall, a great experience.”
“First off, my counsellor was welcoming and helpful. They made me feel heard and respected.”
“I felt accepted and validated throughout the whole process. I never once felt judged and enjoyed my experience.”
“It was a respectful, efficient process. I felt comfortable even while discussing stressful subject matter. I was provided with a reasonable plan for over coming the issues at hand. I felt a safe connection, which encouraged me to continue with ongoing sessions.”
OK2BME Youth Group:
“The OK2BME group was the first time that someone said “me too” to a queer story that I told. I was met with sympathy and suggestions for solutions instead of disgust and annoyance.”
“I was having a really bad day, but coming here to a place where I belong. Made me feel a lot better.”
“Cambridge OK2BME means safety for me. It’s a place I belong. It’s like a home. Like these are my friends and family.”
GSA Conference:
The 2018 ‘Take the Leap’ GSA Conference was something I’ll cherish as long as I live. I was pushed so far out of my comfort zone and yet somehow, never felt more safe. I moved people; my words, my experiences, changed peoples lives – and that’s something I will never get over. I am so incredibly proud of myself and everything my OK2BME youth leadership team managed to accomplish. I couldn’t ask for a better group of friends. I am so excited to start working on other events and to see how the future unfolds.
TJ, OK2BME Youth Leadership Group
About OK2BME:
“Two years ago, I was a workshop presenter at the GSA Conference. Now I work for OK2BME and get to help organize it! I remain so inspired by the brave allies and LGBTQ young people here today. Shine on! Dare to dream!”
Melissa Sky
On Diversity:
“Diversity is our strength. It is so important for all of us to foster communities of inclusion. Communities of belonging. Communities of creativity.”
Catherine Fife, MPP Kitchener-Waterloo
Services:
“My life would have been so different if something like this existed when I was in high school. It’s truly beautiful to witness this historic change.”
Melissa Sky
Kids & Teens:
“The teachers at my school give me hope because they don’t judge anyone.”
GSA Conference Attendee
Adults:
“With time, my Dad became really supportive. He was proud of me on my wedding day (to my same sex partner) and he was thrilled to become a granddad!”
GSA Conference Attendee
Seniors & Service Providers:
“Not a single one of my students has ever reacted negatively when I told them I was a lesbian.”
GSA Conference Attendee
Outside of Canada:
“I dream that one day humanity will be able to LOVE freely, LIVE openly and we can all simply COEXIST.”
GSA Conference Attendee
Coming Out Day:
“When my friend came out, she introduced me to the LGBTQ Community and that’s the best thing that’s happened to me in all of high school.”
GSA Conference Attendee