“As a young queer person who was bullied for being different, I hid my identity and felt ashamed of who I am”
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY JUST LIKE US
Announced on International Women’s Day, Paralympian Lauren Rowles has assumed the prestigious role of patron at Just Like Us, the UK’s LGBTQIA young people’s charity. The two-time Paralympic champion rower, securing gold in both Rio de Janeiro (2016) and Tokyo (2021), will now set her sights on the 2024 Summer Paralympics in Paris. Lauren, a staunch advocate for LGBTQIA inclusion and mental health, stands as the charity’s second patron alongside Bridgerton’s Jonathan Bailey.
Lauren brings more than just her impressive athletic prowess to the table – her relentless dedication to promoting disabled representation and fighting for the rights of the LGBTQIA community defines her illustrious career. As she gears up for the 2024 Paralympics, Lauren is ready to lend her support to Just Like Us and amplify the charity’s vital work.
Expressing her enthusiasm, Lauren said: “I am beyond excited to be joining the Just Like Us team in my role as a patron. I feel proud to represent the intersectionality of our community. I hope to increase visibility and raise more awareness for the rights of disabled LGBTQIA young people.”
“As a young queer person who was bullied for being different, I hid my identity and felt ashamed of who I am. Having the right support systems at school and education to explore life as an LGBTQIA person would have prevented me seriously struggling with my mental health and feeling like I had to hide who I am.”
“That’s why the work of Just Like Us is so vital to ensure that no young person has to hide or suffer in silence and give them the space to experience queer joy at a younger age without prejudice. I look forward to contributing to the invaluable work that Just Like Us does and hopefully change the lives of more LGBTQIA young people for the better.”
As a patron, Lauren will play a pivotal role in supporting Just Like Us’ initiatives, including programs that celebrate School Diversity Week, provide safe spaces through the Pride Groups program, and deliver impactful school talks via the Ambassador program.
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