The event, held on Wednesday (June 4), was part of the broader Phuket Pride 2025 celebrations and aimed to position the island as a model city of inclusion and understanding of gender diversity.
Led by Nopphasorn Sittiwet, Vice President of the Andaman Power Phuket Association, the event provided a platform to discuss key issues affecting the LGBTQIAN+ community in Thailand. The initiative focused on fostering dialogue around rights, equality and the need for legal and social reform.
Workshops organised by the Thai Ladyboy Network Foundation (Thai TGA) addressed topics such as ‘Why Do Ladyboys Talk?’ and ‘Gender and Legal Rights’, The sessions highlighted the ongoing struggle for safe spaces, better representation and the push for the long-awaited Gender Recognition Act, which is currently under debate.
Discussions also delved into the challenges transgender individuals face in Thailand, including the lack of gender-appropriate honorifics, limited access to gender-affirming healthcare and difficulties in international travel due to mismatched identity documentation. Participants also emphasised the need for comprehensive sex education in schools ‒ an area where progress remains slow despite growing awareness.
Beyond the seminars, the event featured a Pride-themed photo corner, free blood testing services and a dazzling performance by Simon Cabaret to close the evening.
The Pride Talk is one of several events planned as part of Phuket Pride 2025, which runs throughout June. Other highlights have already included a beach volleyball tournament and the ‘Miss Queen Andaman Power 2025’ contest held yesterday (June 6).
The ‘Pride Parade 2025’ is set to take place along the Patong beachfront tomorrow (June 8).
Organisers say the ongoing festivities underscore Phuket’s commitment to building a sustainable, creative and inclusive society for people of all identities and generations.