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April always carries a heavy weight for Rainbow Games 2024 participant, Naquia Rahim, a month which is marked by the indelible pain of loss. It was in April 2021 that her brother, struggling with the burden of societal judgment and personal anguish around his sexuality, chose to depart from this world, leaving Naquia and her family shattered.
"My gay younger brother died by suicide in April 2021. Since then, I set aside time every April to grieve and honour him", shared Naquia.
Every passing year may deepen the void left by her brother's absence. Yet, within the depths of grief, flickers of opportunity emerge and Naquia aims to celebrate her brother’s life every April on her path of healing and remembrance.
"When I heard about Rainbow Games taking place in April 2024 in New Zealand, it felt like some kind of calling,", she revealed. "It aligns with my time off work, and I've always wanted to visit New Zealand."
The Rainbow Games 2024 — an international celebration of diversity and inclusion in sport offers players like Naquia a glimmer of hope.
"My younger brother's death has taught me to embrace life. Immersing myself in the LGBTQI+ community at the Rainbow Games, playing a sport I enjoy , although am not necessarily good at, and exploring Tāmaki Makaurau and beyond would be my way of honouring the grief."
As April dawns upon us, Naquia (and many more) will embark on unique journeys in this celebration of camaraderie among like-minded participants and new connections.
She will be participating in the basketball 3x3 on Sunday at the Trusts Arena, only one day after the world will celebrate ‘International Day for Sport, Development and Peace’, which highlights the social good of events like the Rainbow Games and the sentiment that sport is for all.
Get involved in the movement and share your story online #RainbowGames2024#PlayAtFullVolume #IDSDP24
Find out more about the Rainbow Games at www.RainbowGames.co.nz
