Online Roundtable Series
Malaysia
Megan Steven is an LGBTQIAN+ human rights defender based in Sabah, Malaysia, and a consultant for Justice For Sisters (JFS). Since beginning her activism in 2014, she has focused on raising awareness, fostering empathy, and challenging discrimination against LGBTQIAN+ people. Through her advocacy, she has worked tirelessly to promote the recognition of LGBTQIAN+ rights, advocating for a society where LGBTQIAN+ individuals are respected, included, and have access to equal rights and opportunities. Throughout her journey, Megan has participated in numerous local and international workshops, trainings, and forums, actively contributing to global platforms such as UN treaty bodies, ASEAN, the Voluntary National Review (VNR), and the Universal Periodic Review (UPR).
Megan’s approach to advocacy is grounded in intersectionality, seeking to create inclusive solutions that address multiple layers of discrimination. By fostering an environment of inclusivity, she strives to advance human rights and ensure that marginalized communities have equal access to opportunities. Her work goes beyond personal struggles, as she envisions a society where every individual, regardless of gender identity or legal status, can live with dignity and fully participate in society.
The Philippines
Louela Marie V. Prado is a distinguished graduate of West Visayas State University, where she earned her degree in AB English Language Studies, graduating summa cum laude in July 2022 which led her to be recognized as the Most Outstanding Graduate of AB English Language Studies and a top honoree in various leadership and academic awards, such as the Minokawa Awards for Leadership Excellence and Top Circle awardee at the The Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards.
Louela has held several notable positions, including Administrative Manager and Safety Officer I at Youth Voices Count, where she has been employed since 2022. Her leadership roles extend to being Chairperson of the Iloilo Pride Team and former Vice Chairperson of the West Visayas State University Student Council. She is also involved in numerous organizations, such as JCI Regatta and Secretary of Iloilo City Metro Leos Club — the youth arm of the Iloilo City Metro Lions Club, where she has served in various executive capacities.
Indonesia
Purba Widnyana, Chair of Supervisory Board of QLC Bali, Indonesia, has been involved in the LGBTIQ+ movement for over 8 years. He is passionate about the sustainability of civil society organisations (CSOs) and is an avid problem solver, particularly through the innovative use of technology. He holds a Masters in International Development Practice from Monash University. During major QLC Bali events, he is often assigned the role of "Pak Satpam" or "Mr Security" to ensure the safety of participants and events.
Purba is also a leading figure in Bangga di Bali, a pride event initiated by QLC Bali in 2023. It is a celebration that raises awareness about freedom of expression and the rights of gender and sexual minority communities. The event features performances by queer artists, thought-provoking talk shows, and support for queer-owned businesses, fostering inclusivity and awareness in Bali.
Thailand
Maprang has a background in language education and learning sciences, specializing in discourse analysis, decoding wisdom from nature, and bringing a decolonized perspective to the table. She currently works in policy communication and as an advocate journalist, focusing on gender, environmental, and cultural issues. Since 2020, she has been a core team member of the Feminist's Liberation Front Thailand, a co-founder of Bangkok Pride, and the owner of Rainbow Journey Publishing House, a publishing platform dedicated to representing and resonating with the cultures and people of Southeast Asia. She is passionate about using storytelling to connect people, awaken internalized oppression, and amplify the voices of those who are structurally silenced.
Vietnam
Quang Tran (he/they) is a passionate advocate for queer rights and culture in Vietnam. With a strong commitment to movement building and social justice, Quang leads transformative initiatives as the DEI Program Manager at iSEE and the Director of Hanoi Pride. Their work focuses on amplifying marginalized voices, nurturing grassroots spaces, and driving meaningful change through advocacy, civic engagement, and capacity building.
Timor Leste
Natalino Soares Ornai Guterres is a youth activist and politician advocating for the human rights of vulnerable and marginalized people in Timor-Leste, including people of gender and sexual minorities. He co-founded MAC – Crianças Unidas, a youth-led organization campaigning to end violence against children and gender-based violence in the country. He also co-founded Hatutan, a youth group advocating for social inclusion in Timor-Leste. In 2017, under Guterres’ leadership, Hatutan organized Timor-Leste’s first LGBTIQ+ Pride march and has since organized Pride every year to promote an inclusive society.
Guterres holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Development Studies and a Master’s Degree in Sustainable Economic Development. He is currently serving as President of the Board of Fundasaun CODIVA, an umbrella network of local LGBTIQ+ organizations. In the 2023 parliamentary election, Guterres became the first openly queer person in Timor-Leste to be on the list of candidates for parliament, proposed by the historic FRETILIN party. He also worked as Social Inclusion Adviser and Coordinator for the Revision of Timor-Leste’s Strategic Development Plan, led by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Planning and Territory.
