Anna Mwaka Chivuga Keane

My advocacy journey began in Kenya, where I became involved in grassroots LGBTQ+ organising and community initiatives focused on equality, inclusion, and human rights. Those experiences taught me that meaningful change starts by listening to communities, building trust, and creating spaces where people feel safe, respected, and empowered.

Since moving to Ireland, I have continued this commitment through youth engagement, safeguarding, and administrative leadership. My work at the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre and my volunteering with Belong To LGBTQ+ Youth Ireland have strengthened my understanding of trauma-informed practice, governance, and the importance of creating environments where everyone can participate with dignity and confidence.

Today, I remain committed to connecting community experience with leadership, advocacy, and international collaboration, helping ensure that Black LGBTQ+ voices are represented in conversations that shape more inclusive societies.

Advocacy Journey

2015

2016 - 2025

2023 - Present

2025 - Present

Community Advocacy Begins

Grassroots LGBTQ+ Advocacy

Continuing the Journey in Ireland

International Engagement

Began my journey as a Community Network Member with INEND, where I became involved in grassroots initiatives promoting inclusion, equality, and community participation.

Continued advocacy through youth engagement with Belong To LGBTQ+ Youth Ireland while strengthening my professional expertise in safeguarding, governance, and administration at the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre.

Continue participating in international conferences and leadership programmes, including IGLYO events and the ILGA-Europe Conference, connecting with advocates from across Europe and beyond to share experiences, build networks, and strengthen collective action.

Supported LGBTQ+ communities through outreach, peer support, awareness initiatives, and human rights advocacy with Usikimye Foundation and Rainbow Women of Kenya.

Learning • Collaboration • Global Connections

Selected Conferences & International Engagement

Each conference, leadership programme, and volunteer opportunity has strengthened my commitment to human rights, expanded my international network, and deepened my advocacy for Black LGBTQ+ communities and inclusive societies.

Participant

IGLYO Annual Members' Conference Participant
Zurich, Switzerland • 2025

Participated in the IGLYO Annual Members' Conference, connecting with LGBTQ+ youth organisations from across Europe, exchanging ideas, and learning from community-led initiatives promoting inclusion and equality.

Volunteer

Dublin Pride
Ireland • 2026

Volunteered during Dublin Pride, supporting one of Ireland's largest celebrations of LGBTQ+ visibility, inclusion, and community engagement.

Participant

IGLYO International Youth Conference
Dublin, Ireland • 2026

Participated in the international conference on counteracting the anti-gender movement, engaging with youth leaders and advocates from across Europe to discuss inclusion, advocacy, and resilience.

Advocacy & Leadership

Bringing together grassroots advocacy, safeguarding, and professional administration to help build safer, more inclusive communities.

Institutional Safeguarding

Youth Engagement & Inclusion

Human Rights & Governance

International Advocacy

Supporting safeguarding, Garda Vetting processes, and organisational policies that help create safe, inclusive environments for staff, volunteers, and the communities they serve.

Supporting young people through community engagement, volunteering, and advocacy that promotes participation, inclusion, and equal opportunities for LGBTQ+ youth.

Using strong administrative, safeguarding, and organisational skills to support human rights organisations in delivering transparent, accountable, and people-centred services.

Building international partnerships through conferences, leadership programmes, and cross-cultural collaboration to strengthen equality, inclusion, and human rights for Black LGBTQ+ communities.