Meet our Patrons
Aderonke Apata
Aderonke Apata is a human rights activist, feminist and LGBTQ+ equality advocate who has a BSc in Microbiology, a Master of Public Health and a Postgraduate Degree in Law. She is currently studying for the Bar Professional Training Course and Master of Law. She is a campaigner for LGBTQ+ people seeking asylum to stay in the UK, of which she gained asylum after a 13-year battle.
With a clutch of awards under her belt, she is the winner of the 'Activist of the Year' at the Sexual Freedom Awards (2018) and the winner of the Ron Todd Foundation Equality Awards (2018). Aderonke was also the proud winner at the Attitude Pride Awards'(2017) and the winner of the 'Positive Role Model for LGBT' at the National Diversity Awards (2014), where she was described as “an unstoppable force in fighting for justice." She has also been added to Amnesty International UK's 'Suffragette Spirit Map of Britain' (2018),
She ranks number 41 and 67 on the Rainbow List (2014) and the Rainbow List (2015) respectively, as one of the most influential LGBT people in the UK. Aderonke was named 'LGBT Heroine of the Year' (2015) by DIVA Magazine in recognition of her achievements in the LGBT community. She is the founder of Manchester Migrant Solidarity and African Rainbow Family, an LGBT group that supports LGBTQ+ people seeking asylum in UK and campaigning for the repeal of the toxic Nigerian Anti-LGBTQ+ Law.
Rvd. Jide Macaulay
Reverend Jide Macaulay is the founding Pastor and CEO of House Of Rainbow CIC. He is an openly gay British-Nigerian born in London, a Christian minister since 1998, a dynamic and an inspirational speaker, author, poet, pastor and preacher,
An HIV positive activist, Jide holds a degree in law, a masters degree in theology and a post-graduate certificate in pastoral theology. Jide focuses his ministry on inclusion and reconciliation of sexuality, spirituality and human rights.
He also writes for various Christian and secular journals. He has authored several books and poetry such as 'Inspired' (2001) and the 'Pocket Devotion for LGBT Christians' (2005), Jide has won several awards, including the 2003 and 2007 Black LGBTQ+ Community Award for "Man of the Year" for his work helping people of faith. He was shortlisted for the National Diversity Awards (2014) in the category for 'Positive Role Model..' He was the nOSCARS Award winner in 2014, 2017 and 2018.
He also served from 2007 to 2013 as Executive Board member and Co Chair of Pan Africa International Lesbians and Gay Association. He is currently the Africa Regional Representative at the Global Interfaith Network, sits on the Board of Trustees at Kaleidoscope Trust UK and is the Chairperson for INERELA+ Europe,
Jide is a trained Volunteer Champion at Africa Children's Charity and a Volunteer Chaplain at Mildmay Hospital..
Paul Carruthers
Paul is a dedicated healthcare professional with over 20 years of nursing experience, including nearly a decade in trans healthcare. A passionate advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights, Paul chaired the LGBT+ network at Leeds Teaching Hospitals for two years, creating a more inclusive environment for both staff and patients. They currently work with the GenderPlus hormone clinic, where they champion equitable, accessible trans healthcare in a supportive, patient-centred setting. Honoured first with the title of Mr. Gay Great Britain and then Mr. Gay World in 2024, Paul uses these platforms to bring awareness to global LGBTQIA+ issues, with a focus on equality, representation, and the need for compassionate, inclusive healthcare. As a dad to two boys, Paul is also an advocate for same-sex parenting and works to advocate that every family, regardless of structure, is respected and valued.
You can read all about our new Patron, Paul Carruthers, in our news.