Bryan Stewart has been appointed as the new coordinator of the Freedom Centre. Stewart told OUTinPerth that he was excited to be taking over the role from his long time mentor Dani Wright-Toussaint.

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With a background in Psychology and education Stewart first became involved with the LGBTI+ youth centre back in 2008, before becoming a peer educator in 2011. Now after a few years of traveling around the globe, Stewart is excited to be returning to the centre.

Stewart chatted to OUTinPerth about his background and his excitement at taking on his new role.

How does it feel to be appointed the coordinator for the Freedom Centre?

Becoming the Freedom Centre coordinator is nothing short of a privilege. I’ve seen firsthand the difference Freedom Centre can make in the lives of young people and I’m very excited about being able to contribute to such an amazing service again.

The previous coordinator Dani Wright-Toussaint has been my mentor professionally for close to a decade, and everyone here at Freedom Centre is committed to providing a service that continues to make a positive impact on so many LGBTIQ+ young people in Perth, as well as make Dani proud!

What’s your background? Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I grew up in Scotland and New Zealand before moving to Australia in 2008, so my accent can be a bit of a combination of the three.

I studied Psychology at University before completing my training to become a teacher. I moved to London to work with in Math departments in London, but as it turns out I preferred helping the young people at Freedom Centre way more than I like teaching students algebra.

When did you first become involved with the Freedom Centre?

I first applied to become a volunteer at Freedom Centre in 2008 and I instantly loved it. I volunteered for 3 years before becoming a Peer Educator in 2011. I left Freedom Centre in 2013 to go travelling and work in London, but I’m very excited to be back.

For a young person who has never been to the Freedom Centre, how can they get involved?

If you’re questioning your sexuality and/or gender and under the age of 26, then feel free to come along to our drop in sessions.

Be sure to check out our website www.freedom.org.au and click on ‘Open Times’ for a full list of our drop in sessions, and which one might be best suited to you. If you decide to come along, all you have to do is ring the doorbell and one of our friendly staff or volunteers will let you in and show you around.

You can also contact me  on info@freedom.org.au if you have any questions about Freedom Centre.

People who are questioning their sexuality and/or gender and are under the age of 26 can find out more about the Freedom Centre at www.freedom.org.au

Graeme Watson