Balancing Act: South African Gay and Lesbian Youth Speak Out

The publication was developed by the Gay and Lesbian Archives (GALA) of South Africa to be used as a tool for youth human rights based sexuality education. Balancing Act uses first person accounts to share the life experiences of twenty-one young South Africans from a wide range of social backgrounds. Designed as a resource for schools in South Africa, Balancing Act can be used with learners in Grade 10 to 12 , particularly in Life Orientation classes, but can also be used in other subject areas. Teaching notes are provided to assist teachers in using Balancing Act with their learners.

This collection of stories aims to give insight into choices faced by young South African gay and lesbian people. The book explore the lives of gay youth in a manner that aims to challenge stereotypes and prejudices, and provide information to young gay and lesbian people. The book not only focuses on the difficulties faced, but also the positive options and strategies adopted by well-adjusted young people. This aims to provide positive role models that readers can relate to as they begin to make their own life choices.