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About us

Our Commitment to Equality and Dignity

The Collectif Arc-en-Ciel (CAEC) is a Mauritian non-governmental organization that supports the LGBTQ+ community. The association advocates against homophobia and all forms of discrimination related to gender identity and sexual orientation.

CAEC envisions a Mauritian society in which every citizen enjoys equal rights, free from any form of discrimination. Its goals include the decriminalization of homosexuality and stronger protection against hate speech targeting the community.

Our mission is to promote the inclusion of differences and ensure equal treatment for every individual in our Rainbow Nation.

What is Collectif Arc En Ciel (CAEC)?

Founded in 2005 by Nathalie Germain, Nicolas Ritter, Thierry De Ravel, and Jean-Luc Ahnee, the Collectif Arc-en-Ciel (CAEC) is an LGBTQIA+ rights non- governmental organization in Mauritius. For nearly two decades, CAEC has been defending human rights, challenging discrimination, and advocating for equality regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Through relentless advocacy, public engagement, and community support, we strive to create a society where every individual is respected, heard, and empowered to live authentically and proudly.

What does Collectif Arc En Ciel (CAEC) do?

At Collectif Arc En Ciel, we build safe spaces, provide essential support, and stand unwaveringly against injustice, ensuring that no one is left behind. Our work encompasses raising awareness, fostering solidarity, and promoting legal and social reforms that protect and advance the rights of LGBTQIA+ communities. By championing inclusion and equality, Collectif Arc-en-Ciel envisions a Mauritius where diversity is celebrated, discrimination is dismantled, and every person can enjoy the full spectrum of their human rights without fear or limitation.

Our Mission

Our mission is to empower LGBTQIA+ individuals in Mauritius by amplifying their voices and advocating for full equality, inclusion, and justice.

Our Vision

Our vision is a Mauritius where all individuals are empowered and respected, free from stigma, discrimination, and violence based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, and where everyone’s rights are equally upheld.

Board Members

About

Dimitri Ah-Yu

President

About

Ryan Ah Seek

Vice-President

About

Karl Grimaud

Secretary

About

Nathalie Germain

Vice-Secretary

About

Steeve Batour

Treasurer

About

Sonal Cheekhooree

Vice-Treasurer
About

Laurent Laroche

Board Member

About

Kevan DeBums

Board Member

About

Muriel Yvon

Board Member

Staff

About

Annie Osawaru

Director

About

Neina Mudhoo

Programme Officer

About

Brooklyn Huët

Communication and Events Coordinator

About

Charles Sambadoo

Finance Manager

Dimitri Ah-Yu
President

An activist for nearly 15 years, he deeply believes in the light within every human being and in our collective ability to make the world a kinder, more compassionate place. What drives him is sharing, connecting with others… and people’s smiles. For him, life is too short to be lived in the shadows — and love far too beautiful to be hidden.

Ryan Ah Seek
Vice-President

Ryan Ah Seek, Vice President, has been actively involved in the LGBTQIA+ cause and community for over ten years. His activism is marked by consistent grassroots engagement and concrete actions to advance human rights. He is also one of the plaintiffs – and a victor – in the historic case concerning Section 250, a major victory for the recognition and protection of LGBTQIA+ rights in Mauritius.

Karl Grimaud
Secretary

Karl Alexandre Grimaud works in the marketing sector, both in Europe and in Mauritius. In 2024, he joined the Board of Collectif Arc-en-Ciel as Vice Secretary. Positive and resourceful, he stands out for his ability to tackle challenges with pragmatism and efficiency. Known for his availability and strong sense of solidarity, he fully commits to every project with dedication and professionalism.

Nathalie Germain
Vice-Secretary

Nathalie Germain has always been committed to the respect of human rights and is grateful to be a co-founder of Collectif Arc-en-Ciel for all that it has allowed her to experience, learn, and share. She loves art, mediation, sewing, her freedom, and lying on the couch like a jellyfish with her dogs. Her ideal? A society where everyone can be who they are, with respect, kindness, and equal rights. She hopes to live for a very long time, because there is still so much to do, discover, and love.

Steeve Batour
Treasurer

Steeve Batour is a seasoned commercial director with over 25 years of experience in business development and client relations, known for his professionalism and strong human values. Originally from the north of the island, he is also a long-time human rights activist, dedicated to defending vulnerable and marginalized communities. He actively contributes to various social projects, guided by principles of dignity, equity, and inclusion. Steeve balances economic performance with humanitarian commitment. Outside of work, he enjoys sports, hiking, and board games as ways to foster social connection and teamwork.

Sonal Cheekhooree
Vice-Treasurer

Sonal Cheekhooree is a sociologist and social anthropologist who works at the crossroads of culture, strategy and social impact. As an independent consultant, she supports organisations in becoming more human-centred, inclusive and purpose-driven. Her work spans innovation, sustainability and DEI, always grounded in empathy and curiosity. Sonal is proud to serve on the board of the Collectif Arc-en-Ciel, contributing to its mission of equality and dignity for all.

Laurent Laroche
Board Member

A member of the Board since 2005, Laurent is a passionate advocate for human rights, with a particular commitment to the fight against homophobia. With extensive experience in various NGOs, his journey has been dedicated to social action and the promotion of equality for all.

Kevan DeBums
Board Member

Kevan is an IT consultant and has been a dedicated member of the Collectif Arc-en-Ciel for several years. He has served on the Board for 7 years, contributing actively to the organisation’s vision. Passionate about human rights, he brings both technical expertise and deep commitment to his work. His involvement reflects a strong belief in equality, inclusion, and community empowerment.

Muriel Yvon
Board Member

Muriel is a passionate advocate for equality and inclusion, with years of involvement in LGBTQIA+ rights through Collectif Arc en Ciel. With a background rooted in community building and creative collaboration, she brings creativity, heart, and strategy to the board. After a brief pause, she returns with renewed energy to help shape spaces that celebrate diversity and amplify queer voices.

Annie Osawaru

Director

Annie Osawaru is the Director of Collectif Arc-en-Ciel (CAEC), bringing over a decade of experience in advocacy, project management, and inclusive leadership. With a BSc in Tourism and Hospitality Management, she combines grassroots activism with strategic development to drive meaningful change. Passionate about LGBTIQ+ rights, gender justice, and community care, Annie leads with empathy, boldness, and a deep belief that joy is a form of resistance. Whether coordinating national campaigns or creating safe spaces, she approaches her work with integrity, creativity, and a signature dose of sparkle.

Neina Mudhoo
Programme Officer

Neina is the Program Officer at Collectif Arc-en-Ciel, where she works to advance LGBTQIA+ rights and health equity in Mauritius. She has over 20 years of experience in customer service, administration, human resources, and project management. She excels in coordinating high-impact programs and organizing mobilizing events. She values collaboration, strategy, and effective communication. Committed and passionate, she builds partnerships in support of inclusion and social change.

Brooklyn Huët
Communication and Events Coordinator

Brooklyn has been advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights since the age of 18. With a background in communication, she uses her skills to support marginalized communities, both through grassroots activism and digital platforms. As a dedicated content creator, she raises awareness and sparks essential conversations around the realities faced by vulnerable groups in Mauritian society. Her motto: “I don’t raise my voice to be heard, I raise it so others no longer have to.”

Charles Sambadoo
Finance Manager

With a background in finance, Charles Sambadoo is a dedicated father of two sons who is passionate about music and badminton. Guided by an inspiring life philosophy, his motto is: “Live every minute as if it were your last.”