Queer Diasporas Workshop: Solidarity, Activism and Belonging

Date 12 June 2026
Time 10am - 4pm
Cost Free

Join this one-day workshop exploring how we can build stronger forms of solidarity, support, and belonging for queer diasporic communities.

About this event

The programme will feature a roundtable discussion with queer diasporic activists and researchers, a keynote lecture by Professor Dibyesh Anand (University of Westminster), and a spotlight presentation on an LGBTQIA+ empowerment programme, followed by a participatory activity exploring examples of best practice in building horizontal solidarity and peer-support networks for queer international students and researchers within and beyond the university. 

The workshop aims to create a space for dialogue, reflection, connection, and community among those engaged in queer diasporic work across activism, academia, and cultural practice.

Supported by a King’s College London EDI grant, the event is co-organised by Dr Anna Khlusova (King's College London), Masha Budryte (Queer activist and founder of Yasnaya Britannia), and Mariia Kogan (Queer activist and Senior Mentoring Officer at the University of Westminster).

Event schedule

  • 10-10:30am: Tea, coffee, and pastries
  • 10:30-10:35am: Welcome address
  • 10:35am-12pm: Roundtable discussion on Fostering Solidarities: Queer Diasporas between Activism and Research (Chair: Dr Anna Khlusova)
  • 12-1pm: Lunch
  • 1-1:15pm: Keynote lecture by Professor Dibyesh Anand
  • 2:15-2:30pm: Short break
  • 2:30-3pm: Spotlight presentation on the LGBTQIA+ Empowerment Programme (Mariia Kogan)
  • 3-4pm: Participatory workshop activity
  • 4-6pm: Soft drinks reception

Location

KIN 4.27, King's Building, King's College London