Snapchat teams up with Minus18 for IDAHOBIT
May 21, 2020
COVID-19 has meant that celebrating IDAHOBIT looked a little different in 2020. We've had to find new and innovative ways to stay connected – and ensure LGBTQIA+ youth could find a sense of community and support even when unable to see each other in person. Teaming up with Snapchat was one great way of doing just that.
For LGBTQIA+ youth, growing up can be tough enough without the added pressure of feeling different, alone or even unsafe. Despite much progress, three out of four (75%) Australian LGBTQIA+ youth still experience some form of bullying or discrimination.
Experts suggest being visible, making friends and feeling supported are among the best ways to promote life-affirming social inclusion, which can promote positive mental health outcomes.
In celebration of this year’s International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT, Sunday May 17th), volunteers from Minus18, Australia’s leading not-for-profit organisation engaging LGBTQIA youth, collaborated with Snap Inc. Australia to create a series of IDAHOBIT and Pride Augmented Reality (AR) Lenses.
“While recent social distancing requirements have removed the ability for many to connect psychically, it is important for young people to continue to celebrate their individual identity and the wider queer community,” says Minus18 CEO Micah Scott.
“LGBTQIA+ youth are still twice as likely to be diagnosed and treated for mental health illnesses in Australia, which is why it is important that we look for new ways to tell our stories, build friendships and engage with the community. Snapchat is already the preferred platform for many youth, which is why it made sense to partner with Snap and create these amazing AR Lenses for IDAHOBIT,” adds Scott.
Minus18's LGBTQIA+ youth crew came together online to create the rainbow, pride and IDAHOBIT themed lenses, led by team Snap. After discussing what IDAHOBIT means to them, participants were led through an introduction to Lens Studio, including technical details such as 3D texturing, advanced graphic and Face Lens capabilities. And of course, they created content with the lenses afterwards!
Snap’s IDAHOBIT Lenses follow the company’s recent release of Here For You, an in-app tool that provides Snapchatters access to professionally accredited tools, resources and support contacts relating to mental health and wellbeing. Locally, Snap has partnered with PROJECT ROCKIT to deliver its Here For You content.
“As the leading communication platform for youth in Australia, we remain committed to offering a safe and engaging platform that allows you to be your authentic self, while communicating with your close friends,” explains Kathryn Carter, General Manager, Snap Inc. ANZ.
The IDAHOBIT Lenses are available on Snapchat – just search 'IDAHOBIT'!