Tony O'Shea-Poon He/him

Tony O’Shea-Poon identifies as a queer man and was born in 1971 in Waterford in Ireland. In this interview he reflects on his extensive contributions to the LGBTQ+ community in Milton Keynes since moving there in 1995. Initially feeling isolated, he found belonging through the Gay and Lesbian Switchboard, eventually becoming a key figure in local LGBTQ+ services. He volunteered and later led initiatives such as Youthline and Q:alliance, working on youth support, education outreach, sexual health programs, and combating homophobia—often in the face of political resistance like Section 28. His roles included community organiser, health outreach worker, and Equalities Officer, where he focused on marginalized groups. Tony speaks proudly of the supportive network built through spaces like Q:space and the lasting personal connections formed. He continues to give back as a psychotherapist and mindfulness teacher, engaging with LGBTQ+ individuals and events such as Milton Keynes Pride. For Tony, identifying as queer is a powerful act of reclamation and inclusivity, reflecting his journey of advocacy, community-building, and personal growth.