What has whānau taught you?

Forrester (Ngāpuhi) | Tāmaki Makaurau

Forrester’s whānau has made him feel safe and strong in his identity.

“They always remind me, of like, who I am. Because they’re the ones, either biological or chosen who have been like “We love you for you so like don’t ever really change that.”

To stand on my own and to embrace my own mana, really knowing who I am has been crucial. My whānau has played a huge part in my self-discovery, providing a strong foundation of love and support, no matter what.

Coming out as a gay man was a journey for me, but I didn’t have to make a grand announcement. When I shared my truth, my whānau simply asked if I was happy, and when I said yes, they were all good with it.

Sadly, that’s not the case for some of my friends. Their whānau experienced radio silence, leading to a breakdown in those relationships. Thankfully, I’ve never had to face that kind of rejection.”