Trans people exist.

Context

Trans People Exist. campaign was created while UWE LGBT+ President, developed in collaboration with students, local organisations and members of the trans community. It formed part of a wider programme for Transgender Awareness Week, including talks, vigils, social spaces and fundraising for Trans Mind+.

The campaign originated from community workshops, where the message trans people exist. transphobia should not. emerged as the defining statement.

Focus

The aim was to create a week that centred trans experiences, amplified voices and highlighted the ongoing impact of transphobia. The campaign balanced education, storytelling, and community building, while providing accessible ways for people to learn, connect and show support.

A key element was a film revealing the human cost of transphobic violence. It was designed to be direct, emotional and unavoidably honest — a reflection of the experiences the campaign sought to address.

Approach

I coordinated the campaign across online content, in-person events and partnerships with local organisations. The week launched with a free public event at Arnolfini, where Phyllis King shared their powerful personal story alongside film and cultural discussion, followed by informal sessions in cafés, bar-based fundraisers and a candlelit vigil for remembrance.

In consultation with the community, we made the decision not to publish the video through our own channels, recognising the need to protect vulnerable members of our student community. Instead, we partnered with an external organisation to release it, allowing the message to reach the right audience with appropriate framing.

This approach kept the campaign’s integrity intact while ensuring safety, respect and care for those closest to it.

Themes

• visibility and awareness

• community-led messaging

• ethical decision-making and safeguarding

• trans remembrance and solidarity

• accessible education

Outcomes

The campaign attracted strong participation across both student and public events, raised funds for Trans Mind+ and facilitated visible moments of solidarity during a challenging cultural climate. The video reached wider audiences through partner channels, receiving positive feedback from organisations that shared it.

Across the week, the campaign created space for learning, reflection and community connection — all anchored in the message chosen by the community itself.

Reflection

This campaign remains one of the most emotionally complex pieces of work from my time at UWE. It required balancing impact with care, advocating for visibility while protecting those at risk, and navigating difficult decisions in real time.

Despite the challenges, it stands as a meaningful example of what community-led activism can achieve, and how thoughtful communication can honour both message and wellbeing.