New Beginnings: LGBTQ+ Job Fair Offers Hope and Opportunities

A Journey of Hope and Resilience

Meet Andy Kashyap, a 29-year-old transman from Ferozepur, Punjab. Andy once struggled to make ends meet. He sold momos outside his rented room in Mohali. Today, Andy works at a diversity, equity, and inclusion advisory firm. He helps other job seekers find their path. His life changed at a job fair in Delhi for the LGBTQI+ community in 2023.

The National Trans Employment Mela 2025: A Unique Job Fair

The National Trans Employment Mela 2025 took place in the capital. It aimed to create inclusive workspaces for LGBTQI+ youth. The fair was in its third year. It was organized by the TWEET Foundation and InHarmony. They worked with the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

Celebrating Talent and Resilience

Social Justice Minister Virendra Kumar opened the fair. He praised the talent and resilience of the LGBTQI+ community. The fair brought together over 160 transgender and non-binary candidates from across the country.

Top Companies Participating

Many well-known companies came to recruit candidates, such as:

• Publicis Sapient
• Hexaware
• EY Foundation
• Mahindra Logistics
• Godrej Capital
• Procter & Gamble
• The Lemon Tree Hotels
• HDFC Life
• The Lalit Hotel

A Unique and Inclusive Experience

This was no regular job fair. Recruiters ensured conversations were sensitive and inclusive. Job seekers hoped to find acceptance and respect.

Andy’s Inspiring Journey

Andy has a degree in history and psychology from Punjab University. He also has a diploma in hotel management. From earning Rs 150 selling momos, Andy now earns Rs 17,000 a month. He has gained confidence and openly speaks about his transman identity.

Lalit Yadav’s Exciting Opportunity

Lalit Yadav, a 20-year-old commerce graduate from Dhanbad, Jharkhand, was excited. He landed his first internship at the fair. Born Lalita, he has the support of his parents. Lalit aspires to succeed in government service exams and serve as an officer in Bihar.

Facing Challenges and Seeking Acceptance

Many job seekers shared stories of facing transphobia. Ankita Singh, a 26-year-old automation engineer, is one such example. A BTech graduate in computer sciences, Ankita is currently jobless. Her first job ended when her employers learned about her identity. In her next job, she faced humiliation and insensitivity.

Ankita’s Struggle for Respect

“I am looking for a job that gives me respect. I want to be valued for my work based on my qualifications,” Ankita said.

Prerna’s Determination

Prerna, a 24-year-old Delhi University graduate, is pursuing her master’s degree in gender studies. She did not find a job she liked last year at the fair. But it gave her a platform to meet like-minded people. She now works at an insurance company that provides an inclusive atmosphere.

“I am back at the job fair to meet more people and employers. I work as an associate. I have the confidence to seek roles with bigger responsibilities,” Prerna said.

Overcoming Disabilities and Seeking Inclusion

Mani Mallarapu, a 36-year-old transman from Hyderabad, suffered from polio at three. He barely managed to finish Class XII. Working as a volunteer for an NGO in Hyderabad, Mani was in Delhi to participate in the job fair.

Mani’s Determination

“I know there is even less acceptance for a transman with a disability. But I am here to try my best,” Mani said. His determination highlighted the essence of the job fair. The goal was to make inclusive workspaces a reality.