Avinash, a well-known Guyanese designer, reflects on the challenges of being a gay man in a rural part of Guyana and the decision to embrace his true self, ultimately finding success and respect from his clients and peers. Avinash’s friendship with Kristal, a client turned friend, is highlighted as a supportive and accepting relationship. Kristal discusses her upbringing in a very traditional household that emphasized respect for others. She praises Avinash’s talent and reflects on the importance of treating everyone with respect, sharing these values with her husband and children.
She was surprised to learn that Guyanese law still criminalizes intimacy between two men and hopes for a day when Avniash and all gay and lesbian people in Guyana will be treated with respect.
Kristal: “I was raised in a very strict household, but I was raised to treat other people with respect. My dad taught me to be open minded and treat others with respect. My husband and I have children and we teach them to treat every person with respect. I don’t want my children to make judgements on people based on who they are. I’ve always looked at Avinash as a talented designer. There was no need to judge him. I can’t imagine how hard it must have been when he was young. I’m proud of how far he’s come.”