Two weeks ago, a huge explosion devastated Beirut, the capital of the Middle East nation of Lebanon. The blast occurred when a stockpile of dangerous chemicals ignited and the resulting explosion shocked the world. Coming off years of war, an economic crisis, political instability and the Covid pandemic, this was exactly what Lebanon did not need.

The blast left its mark on the LGBTI community also with venues destroyed and people missing, injured or homeless. Proud Lebanon is a community centre and support organisation in Beirut. An international fundraising campaign has started to support their recovery. Bertho Makso from Proud Lebanon took some time from his current frantic schedule to speak with us.