About Us
Our Challenge
Every LGBTIQ+ person, whether or not they identify as religious, is impacted by religious fundamentalism, patriarchy, heteronormativity, stigma, shame, and forced secrecy. In many contexts throughout Africa, religious leaders are at the forefront of spreading negative beliefs about sexuality, advocating sentiments like "homosexuality is unnatural, un-African, and unchristian," which denies LGBTIQ+ people basic human rights. Consequently, hate, homophobia, exclusion, and violence against LGBTIQ+ individuals is tolerated. Anti-homosexuality laws are also reinforced. There's a lack of an affirming voice in Africa.
Our Vision
Bridges in Africa (a 501c3) exists to fund faith-based LGBTQI+ advocacy in Africa. Currently, our focus is to support "God Adores You" ministry, which is being directed by Ronnie Madongwe. This ministry provides vital support and builds community for LGBTQI+ Zimbabweans and extends across Africa. In a country where Christianity is an integral part of the culture, religious and political institutions too often pose deadly challenges to the LGBTQI+ community. This ministry offers a unique, faith-based message of love, understanding, and inclusion.
Amid a rise in anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric and violence in Zimbabwe, primarily fueled by organizations influenced and funded by the American Christian Far Right, our ministry stands as a crucial refuge. In a devoutly religious country, our faith-based approach to advocating for inclusion and understanding from a theological perspective allows God Adores You to reach and change hearts in ways secular organizations cannot.
Meet Our Board Members
Our team is passionate about fostering LGBTQI+ community development across the continent. With diverse skills and backgrounds, we work collaboratively to create innovative solutions that enhance connectivity and improve lives. Together, we are committed to making a lasting impact in the regions we serve.
Danny Cortez
Danny Cortez (he/him) is a co-pastor at Long Beach Christian Fellowship, in Long Beach, CA. Originally, he served as the pastor of New Heart Community Church, a Southern Baptist Church which was dismissed from the denomination as a result of becoming inclusive of LGBTQ people. In 2018, Danny founded and directs Estuary Space, a non-profit that provides consultation to faith communities as well as pastoral support to LGBTQ people and their families. He is a graduate of Talbot Theological Seminary and Arrow Leadership. He is also on the board of PFLAG API San Gabriel Valley.
Douglas Alan McFalls
Douglas McFalls has been working and living in Africa since 2003, focusing on education, culture, and economic development. Douglas was introduced to the LGBTQ Christian community in South Africa in 2018 when he met the future founder and director of the God Adores You ministry, Ronnie Madongwe. Douglas mentored and supported Ronnie in establishing and pursuing this ministry. Though not actively involved in LGBTQ work in Africa, he supports and mentors several individuals who have experienced hate and discrimination. The Church is an integral part of life in much of Africa, and Douglas believes that only through faith will the queer community of Africa find the strength, forgiveness, and patience needed to thrive and for Christians to learn to love as Christ modeled.
Thomas Igeme
As a queer, Black immigrant with over 17 years in the Bay Area, Thomas Igeme brings a rich cultural and identity perspective to the board of Bridges In Africa. His core belief is that "God's Spirit is near all, and available to all who seek Them," aligning with Bridges In Africa’s mission to advocate for LGBTQI inclusion and dignity in faith communities.
Thomas is the Founder and Managing Director of TL Partners, a talent and leadership management consulting firm, and has extensive board experience with organizations including FACES SF, Envision Education, and City Church San Francisco, where he serves as an elder. His professional expertise and lived experience support Bridges In Africa’s work in creating safe, inclusive spaces for LGBTQI individuals across Africa.
Susie HoneyBee Searight
Dr. Susie HoneyBee Searight is a dedicated advocate for children, blending her passion for their welfare with an energetic zest for life. Guided by her Mission Statement, "I live my faith," she champions Mental Health Awareness, Neurodiversity Acceptance, and Social Justice.
Internationally recognized as a children's advocate and an Educational and Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, Dr. Searight is also an award-winning author in Special Education pedagogy. Based in Southern California, she is affectionately called "Dr. HoneyBee" by her students, reflecting her warmth and impact.
As CEO and Founder of the Browncoat Auxiliary Depression & Anxiety Support System (BADASS), she advances mental health initiatives within fandom communities. She also consults for Neurodiversity representation in film and television, promoting inclusivity in entertainment.
Currently pursuing studies in Neuropsychotherapy, Dr. Searight humorously likens her academic journey to collecting degrees "like pins." Her intellect, passion, and playfulness inspire others, showing how professional success and a vibrant spirit can drive meaningful change.