Where the Journey Begins

SHAAG: A Youth-Led Journey in Sexual Health Awareness Across Genders

 

In January 2019, in the heart of Thessaloniki, Greece, a small team of friends—Elli, Sofie, and Antony—came together with a big idea: to create an open, inclusive space for young people to explore, question, and learn about sexuality in a respectful and stigma-free environment. From this shared vision, SHAAG (Sexual Health Awareness Across Genders) was born.

🌱 Where It All Began

SHAAG was more than a youth initiative—it was a heartfelt response to the gaps we saw in conversations about sex, relationships, and gender. We wanted to normalize curiosity, dismantle shame, and build a culture of openness. We believed—and still do—that sexuality is a natural, wonderful, and deeply human part of life that deserves to be talked about with honesty, respect, and joy.

πŸ’‘ What We Did

Over two exciting years, SHAAG became a hub for young people who were eager to learn and share. Through:

  • Youth-led research

  • Interactive online content

  • Community dialogues

we cultivated a space where dialogue thrived. We discussed everything from gender identity and sexual orientation to safer sex practices, body positivity, and relationship dynamics.

Our goal wasn’t to have all the answers—but to ask better questions, to learn together, and to spark curiosity without judgment.

🌈 What We Stood For

  • Openness over shame

  • Exploration over silence

  • Inclusion over division

  • Empowerment over misinformation

We encouraged our peers to think critically and compassionately about their own sexual health and the experiences of others, always grounding our work in respect for diversity and lived experience.

✨ Where We Are Now

While SHAAG’s activities officially paused in 2021, the spirit of our work lives on. The lessons, the connections, and the energy we built together continue to shape future projects—including new initiatives like Empowered Voices.

SHAAG was a powerful reminder that small groups of passionate people can create ripples of change. We remain proud of what we built and excited for what’s still to come.

πŸ”— Connect with SHAAG Online


SHAAG may have paused—but the conversation hasn’t. And it never will.

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