Madagascar: L’Avenir est Pluriel

A new wave of LGBTIQ+ leadership is reshaping Madagascar, with young leaders transforming silence into visibility and building inclusive spaces where identity becomes a source of strength and influence. 

Rasoamanarivo Faniriniaina Bakoly Lalao represents a leadership rooted in authenticity, courage and intersectionality. Coming from Madagascar, where silence was long used as protection, she embodies a generation that refuses to choose between identity and ambition. 

Before this shift, young LGBTIQ+ individuals in Madagascar lived in isolation. Many believed leadership was inaccessible to them, and success required concealing who they were. Policies were designed for them but without their voices. The community existed in a “professional closet”, navigating environments that demanded neutrality instead of embracing diversity. 

The transformation began when young leaders redefined leadership as an act of affirmation. Public visibility became a powerful catalyst. Instead of asking for space, they created their own through events, forums, campaigns and creative platforms where LGBTIQ+ identity is seen as a contribution rather than a debate. 

Intergenerational mentorship created a bridge between past activism and modern digital advocacy. Elders offered historical knowledge and resilience, while young people introduced innovative communication and organising strategies. 

Safe spaces evolved into productive incubators for leadership development. These spaces supported skill-building in advocacy, communication, negotiation and project development. They enabled young leaders to explore their potential without judgement. 

The movement was strengthened by multiple allies youth collectives, activists, artists, human rights organisations, private-sector partners and cultural influencers. Together, they reshaped public perceptions and reinforced LGBTIQ+ visibility. 

What has changed? Madagascar moved from silence to influence. LGBTIQ+ youth leadership is no longer a plea for tolerance, but a driving force redefining social norms. At local levels, support networks are strengthened. Nationally, policy discussions on discrimination and hate crimes gained momentum. Globally, digital solidarity enabled young Malagasy voices to influence international movements. 

Evidence of this change appears in higher representation of openly LGBTIQ+ young leaders, new legal protections, reduced school dropout rates, and increased professional inclusion. 

Sustaining the change requires long-term strategies. Leadership must be institutionalized by integrating young LGBTIQ+ leaders into governance and advisory structures. A cascading mentorship approach ensures each trained leader supports three more, scaling the movement nationally. 

Economic solidarity networks promote financial independence through entrepreneurship and queer-friendly employment. Intersectional alliances with climate justice, disability rights, and gender equality movements amplify the impact and relevance of this leadership. 

Digital campaigns and national advocacy expand visibility and public understanding. Over time, these strategies aim to ensure that LGBTIQ+ identity becomes a recognised part of leadership excellence. 

Quotes 
Mampandrisoa Finoana Tandrify, Le leadership ne consiste pas à être aux commandes, mais à prendre soin de ceux qui sont sous votre responsabilité.

Ravelojaona Zo Fenosoa, Le rôle d'un leader est de créer d'autres leaders, pas plus de suiveurs.