Head down to Alexandra Road one of these days and you'll likely be struck by the fifth-floor windows of one of the industrial buildings on it, across which hang pink fairy lights spelling out the word "proud".
Proud or more specifically, Proud Spaces - is the name of the organisation that resides in the space to which they belong. Proud is also how its founders feel - it's unmistakable from their explanation of what the 1,500-sq-ft location, which opened this March, is all about.
"There are more than 80 LGBTQ+ community groups in Singapore, and this is a place for them to meet, network and learn from one another. I think that's something we've never really had before and something we really need here in Singapore," says Alan Seah, advertising whiz and a founding member of Pink Dot SG who's on the Proud Spaces executive committee, or exco. Chiming in and reinforcing his message is theatre veteran and fellow exco member Harris Zaidi: "Having a symbolic physical space that says 'We're here 365 days a year' is important. This physical presence shows we're a part of this nation. We're visible and we're supporting one another."
On Google, Proud Spaces is described as offering "safe, welcoming spaces for Singapore's LGBTQ+ community and allies to gather, collaborate, and hold events". "Events space" or even "community centre" would, however, be terrible misnomers. Step inside and you'll immediately notice the high ceilings and roomy layout that's accented by a charming mishmash of furniture and artwork - nearly all of which can be moved around to cater to different needs and events. According to centre manager Joanne Chen, this flexibility - along with how most of the whole space has been designed was the result of input solicited from 40 LGBTQ+ community groups over the past year. This is a place that's not just for the people, but also by the people.
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