My name is L’miero, I’m 25 and I live in Windhoek, Namibia.
I identify as gay. I think I was around 16 when I realized I might like guys. I was dating a girl and there wasn’t really a connection, certainly not the feelings between a guy and a girl. I wasn’t interested in girls. She asked me out and I just said yes. So I never thought I might like guys. After months of just dating, holding hands, I was with a friend and he kissed me, and I knew that was right. The sparkles were there, so since then I knew I liked guys. Ever since then I have been open about it. I’m a very private person and I’m not family orientated but my family was okay with it. They’re really understanding and accepting my queer life.
And for that I’m thankful. As an openly gay person, I do face discrimination daily. But that’s what makes us strong because we’ve got thick skin. I don’t let it get to me. “Let it be water off a ducks back”. Words can’t hurt you, only your own perception of those words. My biggest wish for Namibia’s Queer Community is for unity. We discriminate amongst ourselves, we’re supposed to be there for each other yet we’re the ones hurting our own. I want to do so much more for the community. My wish is for my own little family, marriage and adoption for sure. Never let anyone bring you down, remember you’re a strong person. Never be bullied into silence, never allow yourself to be made a victim. Accept no one’s definition of your life,
define yourself.
That’s the story of L’miero. Do you want to share your life story with Namibia and the world as well? Don’t hesitate to contact me to make sure your experiences and thoughts get a platform on Land of the Queers.