I am Rahul Upadhyay, a passionate advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights, a seasoned public speaker, and a committed social entrepreneur. My career has been deeply rooted in activism, and I’ve dedicated myself to the fight for equality and justice for marginalized communities, particularly in India and across Asia.

My journey as an activist began in my early 20s, driven by a desire to create tangible change in societal attitudes toward the queer community. Over the years, I’ve conducted numerous gender sensitization sessions in universities, corporate spaces, and other organizations, helping to raise awareness and shift perspectives.

My work has taken me beyond India, allowing me to represent my country at prestigious international platforms, including WorldPride events in Copenhagen and Sydney. As a strong advocate for Asian representation in global pride organizations, I currently serve as the Co-President of InterPride, where I work to bridge cultural gaps and foster inclusive spaces worldwide. This also makes me the youngest board member of InterPride in its history.

In India, I am proud to be the lead organizer of Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad pride parades, where we have made significant strides in increasing visibility and acceptance in regions where the LGBTQIA+ community often faces intense challenges. I also founded the Gandhinagar Queer Pride Foundation, which has quickly become a leading voice for LGBTQIA+ rights in the country.

My work has been recognized through various accolades, including the Keshav Suri Fellowship. One of my proudest achievements is starting the first support group in India for the families of queer individuals, furthering my commitment to creating inclusive environments for everyone.

In addition to my activism, I work as a Deputy Manager at Ashoka University, where I strategize alumni engagement and bring my expertise in community building to the academic sphere. My efforts continue to inspire and empower individuals across the globe, and I am deeply committed to advancing the ongoing struggle for LGBTQIA+ rights and recognition.

For reference, here’s my website: https://www.rahulupadhyay.in/