VPC: Telling it with Pride Speakers (TiPS) Program 2025 Graduates
Michael Barnett OAM
Telling it with Pride Speakers (TiPS) Program 2025 Graduates
We are excited to introduce the 2025 graduates of the Telling it with Pride Speakers (TiPS) Program!
This year’s cohort showed a keen interest in storytelling for social change, drawing on their own lived experiences with purpose and pride. Participants shared their coming-out stories, trans and gender-diverse narratives, drag performances and neurodiverse perspectives throughout the program. United by a passion for advocacy and improving the lives of LGBTIQA+ communities, their dedication, vulnerability, and courage made this experience truly inspiring.
The TiPS Program was created to empower LGBTIQA+ individuals to share their personal stories with confidence and impact. Supported by the DFFH LGBTIQA+ Sector Strengthening Grant, the program provided training in public speaking and digital storytelling, helping participants strengthen their skills and amplify their voices. The program fosters visibility, understanding, and pride within the community. Upon graduation, participants will join the Victorian Pride Centre’s LGBTIQA+ Speakers Bureau (launched at the conclusion of last year’s program) where they will go on to continue to advocate, educate, and inspire.
You can see this year’s speakers in action at their upcoming showcase on January 20th – an intimate evening of community and connection. This event will be Auslan Interpreted. Although the event is free, reservations are required. Secure your spot here: Midsumma Festival – Telling It With Pride Speakers Night
Join us in celebrating these remarkable storytellers, hear their powerful narratives, and connect with them afterwards in the VPC Theatrette bar. It’s a night of community connection you won’t want to miss!
Now to introduce the 2025 graduates of the TiPS Program!
 | Alex Coombs (he/him) |
 | Reuben Carley-Franklin (he/they) |
 | Bradley Cresswell (he/him) |
 | Iona Annett (they/them) |
 | Inan Uzunoglu (he/him) |
 | Kei Khosasih (they/them) |
 | Mariana Araujo (she/her) |
 | Lil Waters (she/they) |
 | Mich McCowage (they/them) |
 | Oscar Donahue (they/he) |
 | Renee Thompson (she/her) |
 | Bayley Turner (she/her) |
 | Stephanie Serret (she/her) |
 | Vivian Lyngdoh (any pronouns) |
 | Wren Ferguson (they/them) |
Want to contribute to future iterations of the TiPS Program? Please consider donating.
Your financial contribution will play a key role in supporting the next generation of LGBTIQA+ storytellers and voices, widening the reach of our community. Your donation will also sponsor participants from regional and outer Melbourne areas, covering their travel costs, and ensuring they can fully engage with the program. This support will help in the following areas:
- Regional Outreach: Expanding our reach in regional Victoria to ensure that LGBTIQA+ individuals outside metropolitan areas continue to have access to equal opportunities and support.
- Travel and Accommodation Support: Providing travel and accommodation assistance to ensure participants from outer Melbourne and regional areas can attend workshops and events in person.
- Participant Sponsorship: Offering ongoing sponsorships for individual participants from regional and outer Melbourne areas, covering their costs to facilitate full participation in the program.
- Ongoing Support: Ensuring continued guidance and support for members of the LGBTIQA+ Speakers Bureau which creates pathways to paid professional speaking opportunities for participants.
Images are taken by Matto Lucas.