Peer Support Groups for Transgender, Nonbinary & Gender Diverse Folks in Nanaimo, Vancouver Island

Gender Journeys is currently developing a new curriculum and the program will begin again Fall 2023. Please email gender_journeys@nflabc.org for inquiries about joining, ideas for the program, guest speaking, and other questions

Our inclusive, Nanaimo-based peer support groups are for all gender identities: transgender, nonbinary, agender, genderfluid, gender nonconforming, Two-Spirit, etc – or gender questioning. We offer a safe space to explore, learn, connect, and build community. No matter where you are in your journey with gender, you are welcome here! We offer support groups for adults, youth, and their parents and caregivers.

We offer peer support groups for:

Why Gender Journeys is important

Gender identity and expression are central to the way we see ourselves and engage in the world. However, that intuitive knowledge can be muddled as we grow up in Western society, which is cis-normative (which is, that everyone is assumed to be cisgender, or have a gender identity that matches what they are assigned at birth). It is also made more difficult by an assumed binary system with strict gender roles, which doesn’t allow much space for gender diversity and the full continuum of identity.

As a result, transgender, gender diverse and nonbinary (TGDNB) and questioning children and youth can feel lost, depressed, anxious and detached from reality. Research shows that transgender youth are at greatest risk of suicide (compared to their cisgender peers). This is the result of rejection, lack of acceptance and validation, bullying, and/or victimization from family and peers.

Family support is essential, and knowing they are not alone can be the difference between life and death. Having a safe space to process difficult emotions and connect with others on a similar journey means that they can not just survive, but thrive.

Did you know?

– Most children have an inherent sense of their gender identity between the ages of 3-5
– Being transgender is NOT a choice
– Being TGCNB is not new – we have existed since ancient times
– There are many cultures worldwide with multiple gender identities
– TGCNB people are often celebrated by other cultures
– TGCNB people are valid in their identity, regardless of whether they chose to socially or medically transition

How To Join | Contact Gender Journeys

For more information, or to join one of our groups, please contact:

Felicity Hocking-Steel (they/them)
gender_journeys@nflabc.org
(250) 754-3331 ext. 710