Gabriela Kassel Gomez
McGill University
Project location: Montreal
“I hope to create spaces where empowered youth can explore identity, gender and intersectional experiences while learning from their challenges and triumphs, and at the same time expanding my own imaginings of an open-gendered world”
Storytelling and arts-based workshops with transgender and gender nonconforming youth
What was the initiative?
Gabriela’s initiative was a program aimed at supporting transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) youth aged 13-18 through artistic expression, community-building, and self-advocacy. The youth participated in weekly and biweekly workshops focused on storytelling and visual art, including drawing and painting, while collaborating with guest artists. The initiative emphasized the development of self-acceptance, mental health, and identity through creative expression. Participants created a mural as a collective project, and the program was rooted in Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD), empowering youth to take leadership and ownership of the initiative. The program was later extended through a partnership with Gender Creative Kids for its continued growth.
What was the community connection?
Gabriela’s connection to this community was based on her ongoing work with TGNC youth at the Meraki Health Centre, where healthcare practitioners are dedicated to providing safe and supportive spaces for young TGNC people to people to explore their identities without persecution or judgement.
How was it innovative?
The initiative was innovative particularly in its use of artistic expression as a tool for self-advocacy and mental health for transgender and nonbinary youth. By prioritizing youth leadership and empowerment, it subverted traditional adult-driven models, focusing on Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) principles. The initiative encouraged youth to take ownership of the project, leading to organic growth and increased investment in their own community. It also addressed the specific needs of TGNC youth, creating a safe space for them to explore their identities and build confidence. Additionally, its flexible structure allowed for organic, peer-driven collaboration, emphasizing connection over strict agendas.
What is Gabriela doing now?
As the founder of Gabriela Gomez Somatic Counseling & Consulting, embodied wellness of youth and adults, particularly queer and trans, LBGTQIA+, BIPOC, immigrant communities and others impacted by systemic marginalization, through a mind-body counseling approach based in Somatic Experiencing, harm reduction and anti-oppression. Gabriela is also the Director of Counseling Services for Head & Hands.