When Rhiannon arrived at Tŷ Pride in March 2021, she was 20 years old and facing homelessness. Her family’s struggle to accept her gender identity had left her without a safe place to stay. Before finding Tŷ Pride, Rhiannon had moved between several accommodations across Wales, none of which met her needs. Too often, she found herself in environments where she felt unsafe, unwelcome, and unseen.

That changed when Rhiannon was introduced to Llamau’s Tŷ Pride project: Wales’ first 24-hour supported accommodation specifically for LGBTQ+ young people facing homelessness. Tŷ Pride offered her more than just a roof over her head. It offered her community, acceptance, and the space to begin rebuilding her confidence and independence.

Throughout her time at Tŷ Pride, Rhiannon received not only practical support with everyday life but also vital emotional support during her gender transition. Llamau was there at every step, helping her access the medical help she needed while also creating a safe space where she could fully embrace who she is. With this support, Rhiannon began to thrive, growing in self-acceptance, building emotional resilience, and developing the skills to live independently.

A major milestone came recently when Rhiannon moved into her own flat. It was a moment of immense pride, a symbol of how far she had come. Llamau continued to be by her side, supporting her to furnish her home and ensuring she has everything she needs to manage this next chapter of her life successfully.

Now, Rhiannon looks ahead with ambition and purpose. Inspired by the support she received, she hopes to become a support worker, using her lived experience to guide other young people in the care system. She understands the challenges they face and wants to offer the empathy, advice, and encouragement she once needed.

When asked what she’d tell her younger self, Rhiannon’s words are powerful in their simplicity:

“Stand up for yourself and who you are.”