Support Sarah After Escaping Prosecution as a Trans Refugee Advocate.

I moved to Aotearoa New Zealand as a refugee due to the harsh conditions against queer people back home. The only way I was able to do this was through a government scholarship from my home government. I lost my scholarship halfway through my 2nd year due to my public appearances and advocacy efforts as the president of UniQ Otago, the university's queer social and advocacy club.

I was awarded the Vice-Chancellor’s scholarship for my academic excellence, which funds me for a single semester, and so, I am left to figure out funding for the next few years. I’m unable to access StudyLink or any other benefits as I’m still an asylum seeker awaiting the final decision, which could take years. Applying allows me to stay here but doesn’t really guarantee any rights other than not being deported.

My financial difficulties were completely unforeseen, as I was studying for a year and a half without any troubles until being suddenly cut off from funds.

I discussed my situation in an executive statement, alongside an article with the Otago Daily Times, highlighting the queerphobic practices that my home government does. I want to keep advocating for people who might be in the same position as me. Who might feel hopeless as they don’t have someone to look up to, because was me, when I just moved here.