“Reflect. Empower. Unite.”
Durex has announced a special new collaboration with Outlook Magazine for an exclusive Pride Month edition.
Curated under Durex’s flagship initiative, The Birds and Bees Talk (TBBT), this issue has been designed to celebrate and support the LGBTQIA+ community and embodies this year’s Pride Month theme, “Reflect. Empower. Unite.”
The special edition of Outlook Magazine, in partnership with Durex TBBT, is more than yet another publication. It is a testament to the power of storytelling, education and community support in fostering a more diverse, inclusive and understanding society. By honoring the achievements and addressing the challenges of LGBTQIA+ community, this new initiative stands out as a significant contribution to the community that will drive important conversations about sexual and reproductive health.
Guest edited by Ravi Bhatnagar, Director of External Affairs and Partnerships, SOA, Reckitt and recipient of Trans Allyship award by National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Durex and Outlook Magazine’s special edition features a range of inspiring stories, educational content and expert insights tailored to resonate with their broad audience.
Empowering Voices: This edition provides a powerful platform for LGBTQIA+ figures such as Sushant Divgikar, Alok Verma, Dutee Chand, and Trinetra Haldar Gummaraju. Their inspiring stories of overcoming societal barriers and fostering inclusivity are nothing short of inspirational and aim to empower readers.
Expert Insights: The magazine features guest columns from prominent personalities like Arun Kumar Mishra, chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission; Laxmi Narayan Tripathi, a transgender rights activist; and Ashok Row Kavi, a journalist. These contributions will delve deep into the history, rights and societal perceptions of the LGBTQIA+ community, offering new and valuable perspectives.
Comprehensive Education: Emphasizing the need for comprehensive sex education, legislative protection, and cultural shifts, this edition seeks to foster a society that values diversity and empowers individuals to pursue their goals regardless of their sexual orientation. By highlighting ongoing efforts and future aspirations for a safer and more inclusive world, this edition is a vital resource for readers.
TBBT Program’s Impact: The Birds and Bees Talk initiative has influenced sexual and reproductive health education across India. The program’s Social Return on Investment (SROI) Evaluation Study Report reveals a very impressive Rs. 24.40 in social value for every Rs. 1 invested, demonstrating its effectiveness and far-reaching impact. By addressing critical needs and promoting healthy behaviors, the TBBT program aims to equip adolescents with valuable life skills, values, and attitudes to become responsible adults.
Broader Conversations: Beyond celebrating Pride Month, Durex TBBT and Outlook Magazine’s special edition aims to spark broader discussions about sexual and reproductive health, particularly among adolescents and teenagers. Through ongoing dialogue throughout the month, the edition will reinforce the importance of these conversations, ensuring that the impact extends well beyond June.
Gaurav Jain, executive vice president, Reckitt, shared his thoughts on the initiative, “Pride Month is an opportunity for us to reflect on the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community and take meaningful action to support them. This special edition of Outlook Magazine aims to inspire a sense of purpose and hope for the future. It is a celebration of the progress made and a reminder of the work that still needs to be done. Through our continuous efforts, we strive to bridge the gap of inequality, providing a platform for individuals to voice their opinions and share their experiences.”
The TBBT program has delivered powerful and impactful conversations using a variety of tactics, from traditional to unconventional methods. This includes school curricula, media, adolescent mental health helplines, e-learning platforms, murals, social media, music albums, and the AI-powered chatbot HeloJubi. While it was originally designed to equip adolescents in northeastern India with vital life skills, TBBT has now expanded its reach across the nation to address the critical need for comprehensive sex education and promoting healthy behaviors among young people.
