Our vision
A Malawi where trans and gender-diverse persons live with freedom, equality, dignity and bodily autonomy, empowered to achieve self-determination in a just and inclusive society that values diversity.
Trans-led · Malawi · Since January 2024
Leading with authenticity.For us, by us.
We champion the rights, dignity and inclusion of trans and gender-diverse people in Malawi, so that every one of us can live visibly, safely and freely.
A voice for trans and gender-diverse Malawians
The Voice Organization (TVO) was founded in January 2024 by trans and gender-diverse people. We know the gaps first-hand: little public understanding of SOGIESC, no legal recognition of our identities, and too few safe places to speak, heal and lead.
So we build those places, and we push for the laws, services and attitudes that let our communities live with dignity and without fear.
Read our historyVision and mission
Our mission
To champion the rights of trans and gender-diverse people in Malawi by promoting freedom, social inclusion, movement-building, and individual capacity to lead and thrive.
Thematic areas
Five areas of work
- 1Advocacy, Legal Engagement and Policy ReformLaws and policies that protect and recognise us.
- 2Community Empowerment and LeadershipLeaders, self-advocates and economic independence.
- 3Access to Health ServicesAffirming care, including mental health.
- 4Documentation and ResearchEvidence and storytelling that shift the conversation.
- 5Violence Prevention and ResponsePrevention, protection and survivor support.
How we work
Visibility, resources, community, policy
- Advocacy and awareness
- Public campaigns that address misconceptions about SOGIESC and promote understanding and respect for all.
- Resource accessibility
- Partnerships with institutions for mental health services, legal support and educational opportunities shaped around trans and gender-diverse needs.
- Empowerment and community building
- Workshops, support groups and mentorship programmes that build resilience and leadership.
- Policy engagement
- Working with policymakers and allies for gender recognition laws and anti-discrimination protections.
Right now
Current projects
Advocacy & policy
Trans Rise Campaign
Reigniting trans advocacy and activism in Malawi.
International Trans Fund
Advocacy & policy
Claiming the Spaces
Advocacy & policy
Trans Pride Campaign for Social Justice and Equality
A public campaign for visibility, pride and equal treatment of trans people in Malawi.
The Soul City Institute for Social Justice
Health
The Power of Prevention
Elevating HIV prevention and access for transgender communities in Malawi through advocacy and policy change.
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Advocacy & policy
Reclaiming Civic Space
Advancing LGBTIQ+ rights and inclusion by protecting and widening the space for civic participation.
HIVOS
Research & stories
Stitch Identity Collection
A creative project that tells trans and gender-diverse stories through making and design.
GATE
Funders and partners we work with
- ITF
- UNDP
- HIVOS
- GATE
- Soul City Institute
- UNAIDS
- CEDEP
- Oxfam Malawi
- FPAM
- Female Sex Workers Association
Stand with us
Funders, allies, health and legal service providers, and community members: there is a place for you in this work.