I’m a member of the Rainbow Joy Project research team and am completing a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Psychology. My research focuses on the relationship between rainbow role models and the wellbeing of people within the rainbow community.

Limited attention has been given to the impact of rainbow folks having role models from within our own community. This oversight is especially crucial to address given that role models are widely considered an important factor in identity development, yet rainbow folks don't necessarily have role models from the rainbow community organically built into our immediate social environments.

My research takes a positive and multi-dimensional approach to wellbeing, shifting away from the dominant focus on mental distress or protective factors against distress that exists in most research with the rainbow community. In doing so, I aim to contribute to a richer understanding of the lived experiences of rainbow folks.

I'm excited about my research and the wider Rainbow Joy Project. Being involved in this project has already deepened my appreciation for our rainbow elders, the people in rainbow communities who are making a positive impact, and those who are simply living their authentic lives.