Arrun Soma, a New Zealand journalist and media advisor, is not only recognized for his work in media but also as a leading advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights, particularly in the Indian community.
Arrun Soma’s passion for helping marginalized groups, especially those navigating the complexities of intersectionality between ethnic and rainbow identities, led him to co-found Indian Origin Pride New Zealand (IOPNZ). Through IOPNZ, Soma has become a key figure in promoting understanding, support, and empowerment for Indian LGBTQIA+ people and their families.
Early Life and Education: Roots of Passion and Resilience
Born in Wellington, New Zealand, to Gujarati parents Lalita and Prakash Soma, Arrun Soma grew up in a household where cultural heritage was a strong influence. His journey from Wellington to becoming a voice for the marginalized was marked by personal challenges and triumphs. In 2003, he pursued Communication, Media Studies, and Film Studies at Victoria University of Wellington. His education continued at The New Zealand Broadcasting School, where he honed the skills that would later shape his career as a journalist and advocate.
Arrun Soma’s early years were far from easy. Struggling with his identity in a conservative society, he recounted how challenging it was to be “in the closet.” His feelings of isolation, confusion, and loneliness during that time are experiences shared by many in the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly those from ethnic backgrounds. His story resonates with anyone who has had to balance their personal identity with cultural expectations.
Arrun Soma’s struggle fueled his passion for advocacy, as he recognized the need for safe spaces and community support. This realization inspired him to work for change and ultimately led to the formation of Wellington Indian Pride, which later expanded to Indian Origin Pride New Zealand in 2022. The organization now serves as a national platform for rainbow Indians across Aotearoa.
Indian Origin Pride New Zealand: A Beacon for Intersectional Support
In early 2020, Arrun Soma took his advocacy to the next level by founding Wellington Indian Pride, which aimed to support LGBTQIA+ Indians in the city.
Realizing the potential for a broader impact, Arrun Soma partnered with Shay Singh, another passionate advocate from Auckland, to create a national organization: Indian Origin Pride New Zealand (IOPNZ). The organization addresses the unique challenges faced by rainbow Indians and their families, offering a safe space for individuals to express their authentic selves while navigating cultural expectations.
IOPNZ provides more than just peer support—it is a platform for Indian LGBTQIA+ people to embrace both their ethnic and sexual identities. By organizing events, engaging with the wider community, and collaborating with key stakeholders, Soma and IOPNZ aim to create an environment where everyone, regardless of their background or identity, feels valued and accepted.
One of IOPNZ’s most significant milestones was its official launch at the Grand Hall in Parliament, hosted by MP Shanan Halbert, and attended by prominent leaders, including the Deputy Prime Minister and Chief Human Rights Commissioner. This grand event underscored the importance of Soma’s work and the impact IOPNZ has on both the Indian and rainbow communities in New Zealand.
Through IOPNZ, Arrun Soma continues to break barriers, challenging stereotypes and pushing for inclusivity. His goal is clear: to ensure that rainbow Indians and their families are proud to celebrate their identities, free from prejudice or judgment.
Activism and Advocacy: The Power of Personal Experience
Soma’s activism stems from his own experiences growing up and coming to terms with his identity. He understands the pain of living in the shadows, the fear of being rejected by family and community, and the challenges of navigating a world where being a minority within a minority can feel overwhelming. His personal journey is not just a story of overcoming adversity but also one of using those experiences to help others.
His work with IOPNZ is not limited to organizing events or providing support—Soma is dedicated to creating long-term change. One of IOPNZ’s key goals is the development of a peer support program, where rainbow Indians can connect with others who share their experiences. By building a community that understands and supports one another, Soma is fostering resilience and empowerment among those who need it most.
A Personal Journey of Love, Family, and Equality
Beyond his activism, Arrun Soma’s personal life is a testament to the power of love and the fight for equality. In 2018, he married his long-term partner, Jacob Vollebregt, in a blended Christian-Hindu ceremony in Wellington. Their union was not just a celebration of their love but also a powerful statement about the validity of LGBTQIA+ relationships in a world that still struggles with acceptance.
Their journey to parenthood further demonstrated their commitment to breaking down barriers. With the help of a close friend, Lacey, who volunteered to be their surrogate, and another couple who donated eggs, Soma and Vollebregt welcomed their son, Niko, into the world. The experience, while deeply emotional, reinforced their belief in the strength of chosen family and the importance of representation for same-sex parents.
Soma’s openness about his journey—whether it’s about his struggles with identity, his relationship with Jake, or the process of becoming a parent—sends a powerful message to others in similar situations. He shows that love, family, and happiness are not limited by societal norms, and that every person deserves the right to live authentically.
Lessons from Journalism: Empathy, Advocacy, and Accountability
Arrun Soma’s career as a journalist has undoubtedly influenced his work as an advocate. Having worked for both BBC and TVNZ, he learned firsthand the importance of giving a voice to the voiceless. His journalistic endeavors taught him that the world is filled with people who need someone to fight for them, to advocate for their rights, and to hold power structures accountable.
As a journalist, Arrun Soma developed the skills of empathy and resilience, qualities that have seamlessly transferred to his activism. His experiences taught him that real change comes from understanding the needs of the most vulnerable and working tirelessly to address them. These lessons continue to shape his work with IOPNZ, as he fights for equality and inclusion in every aspect of his community.
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