Our Story
Born from the courage of those who left everything behind for the chance to live authentically
Building Safety, Pride and Belonging for Queer and Trans Communities
Who We Are
United in Pride was born from the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals who made the difficult decision to leave their home countries in search of safety, acceptance, and the freedom to live authentically.
We understand that coming to Canada is just the beginning of the journey. The challenges don't end at the border – they transform. Finding community, healing from trauma, navigating new systems, and rebuilding identity in a new land requires support, understanding, and genuine connection.
United in Pride exists as a beacon of hope and belonging, where every identity, every story of trauma, and every dream for the future is not just welcomed, but celebrated.
Our Mission
United in Pride Supports and Empowers LGBTQ+ fleeing persecution by Creating Safe, Culturally and Affirming Spaces where they can Heal, Connect and reclaim their Dignity and Belonging
Community Building
Creating spaces where authentic connections flourish
Cultural Celebration
Honoring diverse backgrounds and identities
Mental Wellness
Supporting healing and emotional wellbeing
Advocacy & Education
Fighting for rights and raising awareness
Healing-Centered Spaces
Safe environments for processing and growth
Peer Support
Connecting individuals with shared experiences
Our Vision
A Canada where LGBTQ+ People Live openly, Safely and with Pride free from fear, stigma, and isolation. And Celebrated and Embraced in Inclusive Communities
Live Safely
Free from persecution and discrimination
Live Openly
Authentic expression without hiding
Be Celebrated
Embraced by inclusive communities
Leadership & Growth
Our Foundation
United in Pride is Founded by Stella Nakitende a Ugandan Lesbian from Uganda dedicated and committed to Empower 2SLGBTQ+ newcomers, immigrants and Refugees fleeing Persecution.
Scaling Our Impact
As her impact grows, she is preparing to scale: expanding peer circles, launching new wellness initiatives, and building a dedicated Advisory Board to steward our growth.
Stella Nakitende
Founder & Executive Director
After escaping anti-LGBTQ+ persecution in Uganda, Stella founded United in Pride with a deep commitment to empowering and supporting 2SLGBTQ+ newcomers, immigrants, and refugees. Driven by her own experience of survival, her leadership is also informed by the personal challenges faced by her partner, Hudson, a trans man who has encountered transphobia, discrimination, and fear both before and after fleeing his home. Stella's firsthand understanding of these struggles fuels her advocacy for the trans community and her passion for creating safe, inclusive, and culturally affirming spaces where all queer and trans individuals can heal, connect, and thrive. As the sole founder, Stella leads the organization's strategic vision and advocacy efforts, ensuring that every voice is heard, valued, and empowered. Her work continues to break down barriers, creating a world where 2SLGBTQ+ newcomers and refugees can live authentically, proudly, and without fear.
Our Why
We Know Rejection
We built this space because we know what it feels like to be rejected — not just by systems, but by our own families, our churches, our communities.
We Know Courage
We know what it feels like to hide — and we know the courage it takes to stop hiding.
United in Pride exists because we believe in something bigger
Queer immigrants deserve more than survival
We deserve to heal
To be loved
To belong
Our Values
The principles that guide everything we do
Safety First
Creating secure environments where vulnerability is protected and honored.
Inclusive Community
Welcoming all identities, backgrounds, and experiences without judgment.
Healing Growth
Supporting individual journeys of healing and personal development.
Joy & Celebration
Embracing happiness and celebrating achievements as acts of resistance.
Be Part of Our Story
Every person who joins our community adds a new chapter to our story of resilience, healing, and hope. Whether you're looking for support, wanting to volunteer, or hoping to contribute to our mission, there's a place for you here.