About Us

Established in 2011, RRANS is a grass-roots non-profit that is the only organization in Atlantic Canada committed specifically to LGBTQI+ refugee resettlement. Over the past 13 years, we have successfully resettled 42 LGBTQI+ individuals, couples, and families in Nova Scotia and provided support to numerous other LGBTQI+ newcomers, embodying our dedication to building inclusive and secure communities. 

RRANS is dedicated to providing private sponsorship and settlement assistance for LGBTQI+ refugees seeking resettlement in Nova Scotia. Our settlement support initiatives encompass a wide range of services, including but not limited to navigating systems for health, housing, education, and employment; offering emotional support; and fostering meaningful community connections with local newcomer and 2SLGBTQI+ communities across Nova Scotia. RRANS also engages in education and advocacy, creating resources and working with partner organizations to ensure that LGBTQI+ refugees and newcomers are supported, included, and welcomed across communities.

Mission:

RRANS makes possible LGBTQI+ refugee resettlement and supports safer communities of belonging through advocacy, education, and sponsorship.

Vision:

We dream of a world where all 2SLGBTQIA+ feel safe, welcome, and included, everywhere.

Values:

Courageous Conversations, Nimble & Feisty, Intentional Community Growth, Joyful Resettlement, Leading with Compassion, & Striving for Equity.

Staff Members

  • Rhiannon Makohoniuk (she/her)

    Co-Executive Director

    rhiannon@rrans.com

    Q: “What possiblty can grow from strong, loving, and networked communities?”

    A: “From such communities, resilience and innovation flourish. They become a foundation where individuals feel supported, allowing them to explore and realze their full potential. This solidarity fosters an environment where collective action can lead to significant social change.”

  • Orlando Tovar (he/him)

    Co-Executive Director

    orlando@rrans.com

    Q: "What inspires you to advocate for the rights and well-being of LGBTQI+ refugees?"

    A: "The strength and courage of the individuals I’m fortunate to work with. These are persons who have faced unimaginable hardships –forced to leave their homes, families, and everything familiar simply because of who they are. Despite the fear and uncertainty, they continue to fight for their right to live safely, openly and authentically.

    Every step toward securing safety and dignity for LGBTQI+ refugees is a step toward a more just and inclusive world –one where everyone can thrive, regardless of where they come from or who they love.

  • Sahand Farahanchi (he/him)

    Settlement Coordinator

    sahand@rrans.com

    Q: “What do you most enjoy about working with LGBTQI+ newcomers?”

    A: "I really enjoy working with LGBTQI+ newcomers because it lets me connect with people from my own community. Even though I’m no longer a newcomer myself, I remember what it was like to start fresh in a new country as a queer person. Having moved to Canada from Tehran, Iran, when I was 17, I’ve been through it myself. I love using my experiences to help other queer newcomers settle in and feel at home here."

  • Tora Cherenkov (he/him)

    Communications Coordinator

    tora@rrans.com

    Q: “How does our collective support shape the future for newcomers in our community?”

    A: "I believe that collectiveness and cooperation are fundamental to the survival and progress of humankind. As a Ukrainian newcomer myself, I understand how brave and vulnerable one feels when adapting to the laws of a new society—it’s like being an archer unsure if your bow is strong enough or if the wind will shift your aim. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with RRANS, where I can contribute to fostering a healthier community by addressing the unique needs of newcomers and amplifying the voice of the cause through media."