HIGHLIGHTS

• TU Changemaker Initiative, established in 2021 by Thammasat University students to tackle social issues, particularly focusing on gender equality and sexual harassment.
• The initiative involves students from diverse fields and collaborates with faculty and industry experts to drive change.
• Notable efforts include a mentoring workshop for LGBTQ+ students and support initiatives for teenage mothers facing adolescent pregnancy.

The understanding and acceptance of gender diversity remain critical challenges worldwide, with ongoing discrimination against various groups, including ethnic minorities, religious communities, people with disabilities, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

TU Changemaker Initiative

In response to these issues, a group of students at Thammasat University established a social impact initiative called “TU Changemaker” in 2021, aiming to drive change across various social issues, particularly focusing on sexual harassment and gender equality.

One of the driving forces behind TU Changemaker is Siwakorn Tassanasorn, a fourth-year student from the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts and the former Vice President of the Thammasat University Student Union at Rangsit Campus during the 2021 academic year. The group comprises students from diverse disciplines, including management, marketing, and political science. It collaborates with faculty advisors such as Prof. Dr. Oraphan Pochanukul, the former Vice President for Student Affairs, and industry experts like Uraiwan Chartthong from Thammasat University Relations Office, and Montira Nakwichian, United Nations Communications Specialist from UN Women.

The group’s first mission was to conduct a “mentoring workshop” specifically for LGBTQ+ students. This initiative aims to create a safe space for participants to express their frustrations, discuss common challenges, and enhance their mental well-being, fostering a more optimistic outlook on life.

Following this, the group addressed the issue of adolescent pregnancy. This project was designed to shift societal perceptions and provide support for teenage mothers, ensuring they receive assistance throughout their pregnancies and during their transition back to education and life post-maternity leave.

In addition to their work with TU Changemaker, Siwakorn is a member of the “Sexual Safety and Sexual Awareness Promotion” committee. Her efforts in advocating for gender equality have been recognized with the “Equity Award 2020” from the United Nations, highlighting the significant impact of these initiatives on promoting a safer and more inclusive campus environment. TU Changemaker continues to evolve, addressing new challenges and striving for meaningful change in society.

For more information please refer to: TU Changemaker – Gender Equality and Diversity Group