I’m a group facilitator with the downtown Grabba Java group. I [facilitate] it now by myself. I started out doing it with somebody in September last year [2022], and then came New Year’s, Zak [Manager of Volunteers & Programming] asked if I would be willing to do it by myself. I said, “Sure, if I can stay in the same location at the same date and time, then that would be perfect.”

One of my core values is community and inclusion – having a place to come to where I feel that I belong. That’s what I want to create for others. In my space, I create a very open and welcoming environment for the Grabba Java [attendees] who come. It’s just a really wonderful feeling, having that sense of community and that sense of inclusion where everyone can feel that they belong.

Another one of my values is safety. Right now, with the climate in [regards to] the city and the 2SLGBTQ+ community, it’s not always safe. I want to make our Grabba Java events a safe place where people can share about XYZ, about whatever is going on. I hold space and let the conversation unfold. Those are three of my values that I feel align quite nicely with Calgary Outlink.

One gentleman has come twice. He is probably close to my dad’s age, so he’s late 60s – early 70s. He’s originally from England, so it’s really cool to hear his stories. That’s one thing I like about Grabba Java – the storytelling that unfolds and happens.

We had another lady that has come twice also. The first time she came, she [was] brand new to the country. She fled her home country to come to Canada because it wasn’t safe for her to be herself in this country. Then she came back the next month; she was very excited. [She] got [her] first job, and she’s now working in Calgary. She feels amazing to be living in Calgary and being a part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

Third, we had a younger man come with two of his support workers. This individual was on the autism spectrum with a developmental disability. He came to meet us and check us out. His support staff came with him and also engaged in conversation with all of us as well, which was really cool.

It was really neat to see the diversity [of people that] come to Grabba Java. I enjoy it every month.

Brave, bold, and authentically myself. (I know, it’s four words!)

I would love to do more things with my business, [particularly] the speaking aspect is what I’ve really gotten into. It’s needed in society – doing more facilitation around diversity, and making inclusive workplaces for 2SLGBTQ+ communities.

My partner. They have come to Grabba Java a couple of times. She’s just so supportive and proud. She’s come to different events I’ve spoken at, and it’s just amazing.

I hope to volunteer [for Grabba Java] for as long as I am physically able to. I enjoy it that much!

Aime is a youth coach, professional speaker + trainer, and an international best-selling author. Inch By Inch Empowerment is a company founded by Aime that helps 2SLGBTQ+ youth on their coming out journey. For inquiries, you can reach Aime at [email protected], or (825) 438-0079. You can follow Aime on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Grabba Java is our community group for everyone in 2SLGBTQ+ communities and their allies. They meet on Thursdays, with the downtown meeting on the third Thursday of the month at Element Café (331 17 Ave SW).