Social Justice
Honouree
Shyam Konnur
India
I’m Shyam Konnur, an LGBTQ+ activist from India, and I’m proud to have won the **Mr. Gay India 2020** title. For me, it was never just about the crown — it was about using that moment to amplify the voices of those in the LGBTQ+ community who feel silenced, to challenge the stigma around sexual orientation and gender identity, and to push for real change. Growing up in India, I personally experienced discrimination, rejection, and the lack of spaces where I could truly be myself. That’s why my activism has always been focused on visibility, inclusion, and breaking down these barriers.
In addition to my advocacy work, I’ve been actively involved in creating policy briefs with organizations like the **United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)** to address the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in India and South Asia. These briefs focus on pushing for stronger legal protections, better healthcare access, and broader social acceptance.
One area that’s been particularly close to my heart is **HIV awareness** and **Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)**. As an advocate for sexual health, I’ve worked to raise awareness about PrEP as an essential tool in preventing HIV transmission, especially within the LGBTQ+ community. HIV remains a major public health concern, and my work has centered on educating people about prevention, access to healthcare, and the importance of removing the stigma that often surrounds HIV.
Through my efforts, I’ve been able to build alliances with both local and international organizations to create educational campaigns, push for policy reform, and improve access to sexual health services. My goal has always been to help create a society where LGBTQ+ individuals can live freely and safely, without fear of discrimination, and have access to the same health resources as anyone else. It’s a long road, but we’re making progress, and I’m committed to continuing this work, both in India and globally.
Brief information about your work
Policy Advocacy with UNDP:
I’ve worked with the **United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)** to create policy briefs aimed at improving legal protections, healthcare access, and social acceptance for LGBTQ+ individuals in India and South Asia.
LGBTQ+ Rights and Inclusion:
I advocate for the **decriminalization of homosexuality** and broader **social acceptance** through public speaking, media campaigns, and grassroots efforts to foster inclusivity for LGBTQ+ people in India.
HIV Awareness and PrEP Advocacy:
I’ve focused on raising awareness about **HIV prevention** and **Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)**, educating the LGBTQ+ community on these health measures and reducing the stigma around HIV.
Mental Health Advocacy:
I work to raise awareness of the mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, advocating for better mental wellness support and creating safe spaces for people to share their experiences.
Support for LGBTQ+ in Crisis:
I assist LGBTQ+ individuals facing crises, including homelessness, family rejection, and legal issues. I collaborate with organizations to provide emergency resources, legal aid, and mental health support.
Work with Universities, Corporates, and Police:
I’ve partnered with universities, corporates, and law enforcement to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion, anti-discrimination policies, and better understanding of LGBTQ+ issues across these sectors.
Through these efforts, I aim to create a safer, more inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community in India and beyond.
What one achievement you’ve accomplished that you’re most proud of? Why?
When I first moved to Pune, the city felt like a place with **zero social life** for the queer community. There were no spaces to connect, no events to celebrate or discuss our identities openly. It was challenging, to say the least. But I decided to change that. I started organizing events, awareness campaigns, and safe spaces where LGBTQ+ individuals could come together, share their stories, and feel seen. I worked with local organizations, universities, and corporations to make Pune a more inclusive city. Over time, the community began to grow, and conversations about LGBTQ+ rights and mental health became part of the city’s social fabric. It’s been incredible to witness the change and see how far we’ve come in creating a space where queer people can truly belong.
What do you find most challenging about your work? Why?
The most challenging part of my work is tackling the **deep-rooted stigma** and **discrimination** that many LGBTQ+ individuals still face, especially in conservative areas. Changing entrenched societal attitudes and overcoming **institutional barriers** in law enforcement, healthcare, and education is an ongoing struggle. Additionally, witnessing the emotional toll that **rejection** and **isolation** taking on LGBTQ+ youth is heartbreaking. Balancing immediate support for those in crisis while advocating for long-term policy change can be overwhelming. But it’s this very challenge that motivates me—knowing that my work is helping create a world where LGBTQ+ people can live authentically and with dignity.
What do you do to recharge your battery?
To recharge my battery, I make sure to take time for myself away from activism. I enjoy **holidays**—taking trips to new places helps me unwind and reset. I also love watching **movies**; it’s my way of escaping into different worlds and relaxing. **Board games** are another favorite of mine—playing with friends is a fun way to disconnect and enjoy lighthearted moments. Spending quality time with **close friends,** having honest conversations, and sharing moments of joy is important too. I practice **meditation** to center myself and reduce stress. Ultimately, it’s about finding balance to keep going.
What is your vulnerability and how do you overcome it?
My biggest vulnerability is the emotional toll of constantly fighting for LGBTQ+ rights. The weight of discrimination, stigma, and witnessing the pain within the community can be overwhelming. It’s hard not to take it personally at times. To overcome this, I lean on my **support system**—close friends and mentors who understand these challenges. I remind myself of the progress we’ve made and the positive changes we’ve achieved, which keeps me going. **Self-care** is key, so I practice **meditation** and take time off to recharge. I stay focused on the bigger picture, knowing every step forward matters.
You have been nominated for the Social Justice Hero category.
What was your reaction and please, tell us why?
When I found out I was nominated for the Social Justice category, I was honestly overwhelmed. I’ve always admired the Hero Awards and dreamed of being part of it, but I never imagined someone would nominate me—and especially not for Social Justice. It feels humbling to think that my work in LGBTQ+ advocacy, mental health, and HIV awareness has made enough of an impact to be recognized in this way. What excites me even more is wondering who nominated me and what inspired them to put me forward. It’s truly an honor, and it drives me to continue pushing for a more just and inclusive world.
What is a warm/hopeful message that you would like to share with the communities in the Asia Pacific?
To all the communities in the Asia Pacific, I want to say: **you are seen, you are valued, and you are not alone**. The journey toward equality and acceptance can be long and difficult, but every step forward matters. **Hope** is a powerful force, and by standing together, we can create spaces where all identities are celebrated, where love is not bound by norms, and where every individual can live authentically. **Keep fighting for your truth**, and know that the collective strength of our communities will pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
