Sparklez (they/them) is a queer, non-binary youth project worker and advocate from Warrnambool, Victoria.
In this episode, Sparklez shares their journey of resilience and self-discovery, beginning with their escape from a small rural town at age 16 to pursue safety and self-acceptance. They discuss their experiences growing up in a deeply isolating environment, finding community in Melbourne, and returning to Warrnambool with a mission to create safe, affirming spaces for LGBTQIA+ youth. Sparklez reflects on their work fostering visibility, representation, and allyship in regional areas and their recent journey of affirming their neurodivergent identity and embracing their true self unapologetically.
Trigger Warnings: Homophobia, mental health struggles, and familial conflict.
If this content may be triggering for you, please seek support from a loved one or one of the helplines at the bottom of this description.
This podcast is released every Friday and could not have been possible without the support of our local community partners, Midsumma and the Fairer Victoria portfolio of the Victorian State Government.
Episode Credits
Producer, Interviewer & Editing: Helene Thomas
Co-Producer: Ashlee Hints
Music & Underscoring: Mieke Louise
Want to know more about Pridefinder?
www.midsumma.org.au/victorias-pride/pridefinder-podcast/
Want to know more about Helene Thomas & The Wayfinder?
Music Credits
Original jingle and underscoring music written, composed, recorded and produced by Mieke Louise, a queer singer/songwriter and advocate from regional Victoria.
Original jingle and underscoring music written, composed, recorded and produced by Mieke Louise, a queer singer/songwriter and advocate from regional Victoria.
You can find out more about Mieke's coming music releases on their instagram @miekesmusik or on Spotify
Seek Support
If this podcast has raised difficult feelings for you, there is always support available:
