OUT LOUD: Queer Voices & Futures
A three-part speaker and skills-building series in Centre Wellington
Out Loud: Queer Voices & Futures is a three-part speaker and skills-building series created to support, empower, and connect queer youth and young adults in Centre Wellington.
The series brings together queer adults, community members, professionals, and youth to create opportunities for connection, mentorship, learning, and practical skill-building. Each evening explores a different part of life as a queer person — from hearing the stories of those who have come before us, to navigating relationships and health, to thinking about work, careers, and the future.
For queer youth in rural communities, finding visible role models, affirming information, and supportive spaces can sometimes be challenging. Out Loud aims to help change that by creating welcoming spaces where young people can ask questions, share experiences, build confidence, and see possibilities for their futures.
There is no single way to be queer and no single path through life. Out Loud celebrates diverse identities, experiences, and perspectives while creating space for youth to be heard, supported, and inspired.
Location: Wellington County Museum & Archives – Aboyne Hall, 536 Wellington Rd. 15, Fergus
Funding Provided By: Centre Wellington Community Foundation
Cost: Free
Come Be Part of the Conversation
Listen. Learn. Connect. Build skills. Imagine your future.
Whether you’re a queer young person looking for connection, a parent wanting to better understand and support your child, an educator or professional looking to learn, or a community member who wants to be a stronger ally — there is a place for you at Out Loud: Queer Voices & Futures.
🌈 Night 1: Out Loud — Our Stories
Real stories. Real experiences. Real connection.
An evening centred on real stories, lived experiences, challenges, and moments of pride from queer adults in our community. Through honest and personal stories, our panelists will share experiences, reflections, and lessons from their journeys.
📅 October 13, 2026 · 🕖 7:00–9:00 PM
💜 Night 2: Out Loud — Our Bodies & Relationships
Honest conversations about bodies, relationships, health, and care.
This evening offers welcoming, age-appropriate space to learn about sexual health, relationships, body autonomy, and accessing gender-affirming resources and care. Panelists will share their knowledge, lived experiences, and practical insights to provide accurate, inclusive, and relevant information.
Come with questions and leave with knowledge, resources, and connection.
📅 January 26, 2027 · 🕖 7:00–9:00 PM
Speaker details coming soon.
🌟 Night 3: Out Loud — Our Work & Futures
Your future. Your possibilities. Your path.
What does it look like to be queer in the workplace? How do you find an inclusive employer? What skills can help you take your next step? This evening focuses on employment, career exploration, skill-building, and navigating inclusive workplaces, with opportunities to hear from employers and queer professionals, explore career pathways, and learn about workplace accessibility.
📅 April 20, 2027 · 🕖 7:00–9:00 PM
Speaker details coming soon.
Who Should Attend?
Out Loud is designed for the whole community to attend. We especially welcome:
- 2SLGBTQIA+ youth and young adults
- Queer and questioning youth
- Parents and caregivers
- Teachers and educators
- Social service and community professionals
- Inclusive employers and community organizations
- Allies and community members
Free to Attend
All three Out Loud sessions are completely free. 🍪 Light refreshments will be provided.
Transportation
Transportation support may be available for those who need it to attend. If you require transportation, please contact Angela and Janeen at youthengagement@cwpride.ca and we will do our best to help.
A Welcoming & Accessible Space
Creating a safe, affirming, and accessible environment is at the heart of our Out Loud Speaker Series. CW Pride aims to create space for diverse experiences while reducing barriers to information, connection, and support.
Your Youth Engagement Coordinators
Angela Hammond
(she/her)
Janeen Weatherhead
(she/her)
Angela Hammond (she/her) and Janeen Weatherhead (she/her) are the Youth Engagement Coordinators for CW Pride.
They are passionate about creating welcoming, inclusive, and affirming programs where 2SLGBTQIA+ youth can connect, build community, learn new skills, and be themselves. If you have any questions about the series, accessibility needs, or transportation, Angela and Janeen are happy to help.
Questions? Contact Angela and Janeen at youthengagement@cwpride.ca