About Us
Learn more about LooM SWANA
Who we are
Our Identity as a Symbol of Unity and Diversity
LooM SWANA is a regional LGBTIQ+ organization that aims to connect and intersect communities and Human Rights, Internet Freedom, Digital Rights, and Holistic Security themes to weave better futures for queer and trans people in South West Asia and North Africa “SWANA” region. This is more than an organization; it is a feminist intersectional dedication to creating better, just, and safe futures for LGBTIQ+ people throughout the region.
LooM SWANA aims to build vibrant, resilient, and empowered queer and trans communities that can uphold the rights and dignity of SWANA LGBTIQ+ individuals in all social, political legal, and technological arenas. We aim to advocate for digital rights and internet freedoms, foster leadership, support and produce research and localized knowledge, and create inclusive and “Brave Spaces” that encourage in-depth dialogue. We celebrate the diverse perspectives and activism that exist within the LGBTIQ+ communities and respect the values of intersectionality and inclusion. We are committed to promoting holistic security, internet freedoms, and digital rights to ensure everyone’s security inclusion and empowerment.
Our Mission
LooM SWANA works in intersectional cross-border strategies to build empowered and effective societies capable of defending their rights and dignity on the social, political, legal, and technological levels
Our Vision
LooM SWANA envisions a safe and just world for all LGBTIQ+ people in Southwest Asia and North Africa “SWANA” region, socially, legally, and technologically.
Why “LooM”?
Loom is a device used to weave cloth and tapestry by making thread or yarn into fabric by weaving strands together at right angles.
Similar to the tool used to weave colorful fabrics with complex patterns created by many shapes and colors, LooM SWANA aims to blend various groups, concepts, strategies, and experiences into a single, stunning whole. The closer one gets, the more the phrase “LooM” reveals itself, moving from initial ambiguity to clarity and significance.
Why “SWANA”?
A decolonial and inclusive word for the region popularly known as the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), which stands for Southwest Asia and North Africa. The focus shifts from a political definition that has been largely influenced by the Global North to a geographical one emphasizing deeply rooted interpretations based on local contexts and grassroots communities.
Why “Brave Spaces”?
Brave spaces actively promote in-depth discussions, going above and beyond safe spaces. A brave space is a place where individuals feel encouraged to speak up and share their experiences and perspectives on matters of social justice and change, even when they might be outside the norm, uncomfortable, or challenging. Unlike safe spaces, which prioritize personal comfort and avoiding discomfort, brave spaces encourage individuals to engage in challenging conversations, confront their biases, and step outside their comfort zones to foster growth and understanding.
Core
Our Themes
Holistic Security, Technology, and Digital Rights
Advocacy and Promotion of Progressive Social Change
Empowering and Strengthening the Capacities of LGBTIQ+ Communities in “SWANA” region
Who we are
Our Leadership
Executive Team
Azza Nubi
Founder and Executive Director
Medhat Zidan
Communications and Digital Engagement Manager
Ibrahim Muhammad
Protection and Holistic Security Manager
Laura L.
Digital Content Creator
A
Advocacy and Campaigns Manager
B
Learning & Impact Manager
Advisory Board
Afsaneh Rigot
Nayuk
Sam Adam
Mohammed. A
Esra’a
R
Jack Harrison–Quintana
Board of Directors (Comming soon)
Weaving Better Futures for LGBTIQ+ Communities in SWANA
View Our Programs