GRÓ GEST Alumnus Trains 30 Facilitators in Kenya
The 2026 GRÓ GEST March 8 Fund project, Be.SEEN — Visible, Safe, Counted, has successfully completed its first phase in Kenya, training and certifying 30 intersex peer facilitators to provide community-based support and strengthen access to rights and essential services.
Led by GRÓ GEST alumnus Linus Odhiambo (2024) through the Nairobi-based Together for Better Foundation, Be.SEEN works to address the discrimination, social exclusion and barriers to healthcare and legal recognition experienced by intersex people in Kenya. The initiative is implemented in collaboration with the Intersex Persons Society of Kenya (IPSK) and other national partners, connecting community-level support with ongoing efforts to advance intersex rights.
Building community leadership
According to the project's first interim report, covering September–October 2026, a major milestone was the successful completion of a three-day facilitator training programme at the Swiss Lenana Mount Hotel in Nairobi.
The training brought together 30 participants from Nairobi and Kiambu Counties, covering 11 subjects related to intersex rights, trauma-informed facilitation, confidentiality, safeguarding and access to services.
Participants explored Kenya's recent reforms concerning intersex birth registration and the proposed Intersex Persons Bill 2024, alongside practical approaches to supporting intersex adults, young people and families.
A particular emphasis was placed on creating confidential and supportive environments where intersex people can share experiences, access information and seek assistance without fear of discrimination. The training included practical exercises, simulated peer support sessions and competency assessments, culminating in the certification of 30 facilitators.
From training to community action
With the first phase completed on 31 October, Be.SEEN is now preparing to establish ten confidential peer support circles across Nairobi and Kiambu Counties, scheduled to begin on 10 December 2026.
The circles aim to reach 100 intersex individuals and family members, including young people and parents or caregivers of intersex children. Facilitators will provide rights information, peer