Justice Winner Conteh and Joshua recently went live on TikTok for an engaging conversation about the differences between being a queer person in their home country and living in the Netherlands.

During the livestream, the two discussed the challenges LGBTQIA+ people face in countries where their sexual orientation or gender identity may expose them to discrimination, rejection, stigma, and fear. They also reflected on how life in the Netherlands can offer greater opportunities for freedom, self-expression, and community support.

The conversation highlighted the reality that, in some countries, queer people are forced to hide their identities to protect themselves from discrimination, social exclusion, and possible persecution. For many, the fear of being discovered can affect their mental health, relationships, and ability to live openly.

In contrast, the Netherlands provides legal protections for LGBTQIA+ people and greater opportunities to express their identities openly, although challenges such as discrimination, prejudice, and social exclusion still exist.