Tell us about how you connect to your local community through your advocacy and/or professional work.

In all my work, I strive to build bridges between marginalized communities and the broader society. By listening to and amplifying the voices of those who are often unheard, I aim to create a more inclusive and just local community where everyone can thrive.

A project I am particularly passionate about is the creation of a free, accessible all-gender clothing closet through the non-profit I created, The Prideful Path Project. This initiative provides affirming clothing, toiletries, and menstrual products to those in need, either on-site or through free shipping. This service has become a critical resource for individuals who often face barriers in accessing basic necessities, particularly those within the LGBTQIA+ community.

Additionally, my professional work extends to developing and leading DEI workshops that focus on educating and empowering both individuals and organizations. These workshops aim to disrupt patterns of trauma and discrimination while fostering a deeper understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion. By working directly with local groups, schools, and businesses, I help them build more inclusive practices, contributing to a more equitable and just community.

What did it mean to you to be able to be an HRC grant recipient? How has it impacted you personally and professionally?

Being selected impacted my life tremendously. With the help I received, I was able to form a 501c3 and begin to do the meaningful work I was always meant to do. I have been able to create impactful partnerships that are benefiting and elevating my communities, advocating for the rights of marginalized individuals - specifically trans, gender non-conforming, and neurodiverse individuals, and most importantly, I am inspiring fellow non-binary individuals with autism by showing them that we really are more than our perceived societal limitations.

What brings you joy as a transgender and/or non-binary person?

My children, my partner, my friends, and my community. I am surrounded by so much love and inspiration in my day to day life. I see my children working towards a better future, and I know that the lessons I am teaching them are being absorbed and passed on. My directors and I spread a lot of joy and hope everywhere we go. There's so much to celebrate when we have each other.

What about being trans and/or nonbinary makes you proud?

Transcending the boundaries that society has placed on Black trans people is something to be proud of. It's empowering to be able to present oneself authentically and unapologetically.

Do you see depictions of yourself in the media? Have you seen examples of successful representation? What kinds of representation would you like to see?

I am aware that Hollywood has its own specific standards. Witnessing the deserved recognition bestowed upon TS Madison and Angelica Ross has been truly inspiring. It brings me great joy to see women such as Tori Cooper and Nia Clark gaining visibility, as it mirrors my own aspirations for the next 5-10 years.

We know that transgender and non-binary individuals—and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of color) transgender individuals in particular—are disproportionately impacted by HIV, and often underserved in traditional health care systems. How do HIV and other health disparities impact your community? [If your advocacy work relates to this issue, please let us know that as well.]

Individuals who identify as transgender are among those with the highest rates of HIV infection, yet they often receive inadequate care. Barriers such as difficulty securing stable housing or employment can impede access to proper treatment. I have accompanied friends to HIV clinics and witnessed instances of clinical professionals misgendering and mistreating them. This experience has motivated me to join the Ryan White Planning Council to gain a deeper understanding of the best practices in HIV care.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us, either about your experience with ACTIVATE/ELEVATE/the HRC grants programs, or about your experiences as a transgender and/or non-binary person?

I began my journey of self-discovery back in the 1990s. During that time, there was only one organization in the community that offered support to individuals who identified as gay. Sadly, the staff there were not always kind to those who looked like me. However, I am grateful that there are now a multitude of options available, many of which are created and led by trans individuals for trans individuals. It is truly a remarkable time to be alive!

What has your relationship with HRC helped you accomplish? What are you looking forward to accomplishing in the future?

Thanks to my experience with HRC, I have developed essential leadership and communication skills that have propelled me forward in all areas of my life. Through this program, I discovered that my personality type is that of an Eagle, which I have learned to embrace with pride. Simply put, Eagles get things done. Looking ahead, I am excited to pursue a master's degree in Health Education and finally purchase my very own home within the next five years.

What about being trans and/or nonbinary makes you proud?

I'm proud to be a part of a community that challenges white supremacy and societal norms regularly. Being non-binary & trans masculine means my existence is already resistance in a world that wants to erase me.

Do you see depictions of yourself in the media? Have you seen examples of successful representation? What kinds of representation would you like to see?

Here recently, I'm starting to see a little more BIPOC non-binary trans masculine folks, and it has helped me feel less alone. I would love to see more transmasculine folks that don't necessarily identify as trans men be included in more masculine spaces.

What has your relationship with HRC helped you accomplish? What are you looking forward to accomplishing in the future?

My relationship with HRC has helped me realize that though I am very quiet, I lead with empathy. "Impostor syndrome" creeps up time to time, but I am still a natural born-leader that cares so much. I am looking forward to bettering my role as a leader at my organization and looking for opportunities to grow further in this field of work. My passion has always been helping trans and non-binary folks, and I want to continue that work on a national level and create safe spaces for us to exist.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us, either about your experience with ACTIVATE/ELEVATE/the HRC grants programs, or about your experiences as a transgender and/or non-binary person?

I am highly greatly for the kind words and feedback my fellows and the TJI team have given me, it has helped me so much.

What does visibility as a transgender and/or non-binary person mean to you?

Visibility as a Gender Non-Conforming person holds profound significance for me. It's about more than just being seen; it's about being recognized, respected, and valued for who we are. Visibility is validation that my existence is worthy of the same basic respect as our cis-gender and other trans-identified siblings.

Do you see depictions of yourself in the media? Have you seen examples of successful representation? What kinds of representation would you like to see?

As a Gender Non-Conforming person, I often find that depictions of individuals like myself in the media are limited and constrained by the expectation to conform to binary gender identities. I've observed that trans actors, actresses, and actrexes are often cast in gendered roles that may inadvertently perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to mental health challenges while advancing their careers.
The lack of nuanced representation for gender non-conforming individuals in the media is a significant issue. Non-binary individuals identify outside the traditional binary of male and female, whereas gender non-conforming individuals may express themselves in ways that don't adhere to societal norms of masculinity or femininity, without necessarily identifying as non-binary. It's crucial to understand that 'no two gender non-conforming individuals look or express their gender in the same way.' (Taliyah Cassadine, 2024)
Moving forward, it's essential for media creators, influencers, writers and directors to seek input from gender non-conforming individuals themselves to ensure authentic and respectful portrayals. By providing more varied and accurate representations, media can play a crucial role in increasing understanding and acceptance of gender diversity.

We know that transgender and non-binary individuals—and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of color) transgender individuals in particular—are disproportionately impacted by HIV, and often underserved in traditional health care systems. How do HIV and other health disparities impact your community? [If your advocacy work relates to this issue, please let us know that as well.]

The intersection of being transgender, non-binary, and BIPOC can exacerbate existing health disparities, including those related to HIV/AIDS. I've witnessed firsthand the disproportionate impact of HIV and other health issues within the transgender and gender non-conforming (GNC) communities.
Presenting with AJ Scruggs at the United States Conference on HIV/AIDS in 2022 on GNC (Afab/Amab) Erasure within Medical/HIV Research opened up my eyes further to how much more impactful our input to the research would be if the mistrust of the medical system was addressed instead of bypassed. Too often, our stories, study interviews, and even biometric data are collected without meaningful inclusion in the implementation or evaluation process.
This highlights the urgent need for greater transparency, accountability, and community involvement in medical and HIV research to ensure that the needs and perspectives of transgender, non-binary, and BIPOC individuals are adequately represented and addressed. By actively engaging with and empowering our communities, we can work towards more equitable and inclusive healthcare systems that meet the diverse needs of all individuals.

HRC’s annual Fatal Violence Report talks about the factors that contribute to violence against transgender and non-binary people. In your area, how are trans and non-binary people impacted by violence? [If your advocacy work relates to this issue, please let us know that as well.]

As a member of this community, it's deeply troubling to witness the disproportionate levels of violence targeting Black transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. In Philadelphia, transgender and GNC individuals often face harassment, discrimination, and physical violence simply for being who they are. What pains me most is seeing discrimination happening within the trans community itself, with trans-binary and gender-variant folks divided. As an advocate, I'm committed to raising awareness about these issues, challenging systemic discrimination and violence, and advocating for policies and programs that prioritize the safety and well-being of transgender and non-binary individuals in Philadelphia and beyond. By working together with community organizations, policymakers, and allies, we can strive towards a future where everyone, regardless of their gender identity, can live free from violence and discrimination.

What has your relationship with HRC helped you accomplish? What are you looking forward to accomplishing in the future?

This year, I took a bold step forward by actively seeking out leadership opportunities, such as participating in programs like ELEVATE and Trans Tech Socials’ G.R.O.W Program. I made a conscious decision to confront my anxieties and develop the necessary skills to lead confidently and responsibly, without relying on fear as a motivator.
Looking ahead, I'm enthusiastic about the potential for continued collaboration and advocacy with HRC. Whether it's participating in educational events, joining initiatives, or working alongside like-minded individuals, I'm eager to contribute to meaningful progress. If there are more cohort opportunities available, I'd be thrilled to take part in them as well.
In my vision for the future, I see a world where equality and justice are not just abstract ideals but tangible realities for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Together with HRC and other passionate advocates, I'm committed to making this vision a reality.

What do you wish more people knew about being transgender or non-binary in America?

Our experiences hold immeasurable value and should never be treated as anything less than the gold that they are. Achieving the inclusivity that so many envision for the future requires those outside of our community to leverage their privilege and actively support us.
It's crucial for allies to recognize their privilege and use it to amplify our voices, advocate for our rights, and create spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. True inclusivity can only be achieved when individuals from all walks of life come together in solidarity, respecting and uplifting each other's experiences.
By working hand in hand with allies who are committed to equity and justice, we can build a more inclusive society where everyone's contributions are celebrated and respected.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us, either about your experience with ACTIVATE/ELEVATE/the HRC grants programs, or about your experiences as a transgender and/or non-binary person?

"Don't forget to love you first."
"Change is a process, not an event."

Tell us about how you connect to your local community through your advocacy and/or professional work.

I currently serve as the Operations Manager of the only transitional housing facility for Trans/GNC individual’s in the Greater Northern Bay Area in California. I am connected with TGNC folks who are directly experiencing homelessness, escaping intimate partner violence, suffering from drug addiction, and at risk for HIV and viral HEP C. Along with the help of my team, we bridge the gap to each individuals independence and sustainability through case management, effective resource sharing and comprehensive referral networks. Prior to taking on this role I was the Program Manager of the only exclusive Trans drop-in and community space in the Greater Northern Bay Area; Trans Thrive. This space was designed to be a safe haven and refuge for the TGNC community to build community and learn skills that will advance their opportunity to be productive independent citizens in an ever evolving society.

Do you see depictions of yourself in the media? Have you seen examples of successful representation? What kinds of representation would you like to see?

Now, more than ever do I see myself in media and on multiple intersections of my identity. As a Black woman of Trans experience, I can truly appreciate seeing the vast umbrella of gender variance being showcased in mass media. Reading headline news of a Trans person being positively represented in mainstream media, on widely viewed television shows, movies, sports outlets, and even legislation empowers other Trans identified individuals that they are capable and able to venture off into fields that have traditionally been gate kept from us accessing. I would like to see more affirming headlines and representation of Trans people living their best authentic happy lives.

What has your relationship with HRC helped you accomplish? What are you looking forward to accomplishing in the future?

I am truly grateful for HRC and how they have impacted me both professionally and personally. Moreover, I am indebted to HRC and most importantly the Trans Justice Initiative team for the indescribable life altering training, education, camaraderie and support they have provided me.

Since being introduced to HRC and due to the training I received from the Trans Justice Team my career has truly grown and I can say I have been developed in ways that I have not seen in almost 20 years of service. Since I have been in connection with HRC my career propelled from being a front line provider in a clinic setting to a Program Management in the Non-Profit and Social Service industry in addition to community advocacy.

From the support and skills I obtained I was also inspired to further my education and expand my skills, ultimately investing in my own self development. I sought after additional skill to become a Tax Preparer and invested in a private tax business. Additionally, I am continuing my education and my focus to become a Social Worker. In the future, my hope is to continue and grow with HRC and the Trans Justice Initiative team by side in the Social Services world, ultimately and hopefully becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in order to provide direct Mental Health Services to the community I fight so hard to protect and most importantly am apart of.

Tell us about how you connect to your local community through your advocacy and/or professional work.

Essentially, advocacy is how I advocate and connect with my community by rallying for policy changes to laws that negatively impact the Trans community. By helping to create an impact at local levels and moving towards positive change. Many times when considering Trans issues, making an impact can feel impossible. However, community advocacy does make a difference by targeting local political issues in your city, town, state and community. I have rallied in Chicago, Arkansas, Georgia, Florida, and New York for protective laws related to the Trans community.

What did it mean to you to be able to be an HRC grant recipient / ACTIVATE / ELEVATE / MOTIVATE / ELEVATÉ fellow? How has it impacted you personally and professionally?

I am honored that I was chosen to be an HRC grant recipient. The Activate program came right on time for me in my life. It helped to light a fire deep down in my soul that may have been slowly burning out. I needed to be refilled. Sometimes people don't realize being on the front line of Advocacy can be hard work, lonely, and stressful. They forget that the strongest amongst us need to be rejuvenated and supported in their effort to serve the community. Activate taught me to not just use my voice but to hear it, feel it, and walk into every room I enter with my mission, vision, and purpose before me. To share my cause every chance I have by way of my elevator pitch. I didn't know until Activate just how important this can be. Yet, I will never forget it and will continue to use it in every room. I am grateful for this opportunity and welcome future ones to come.

Do you see depictions of yourself in the media? Have you seen examples of successful representation? What kinds of representation would you like to see?

I honestly don't see any positive Trans-Man images in the media today. I would love to see positive images or representations such as myself in the media. Men who have careers, families, are educated, business owners and have goals that constantly lead them on a life journey of self-improvement. I want to see positive mental health displays. The media likes to take those who struggle and make a mockery of them and place a label on us all. When in reality many of us live just as normal lives as anyone else.

What about being trans and/or nonbinary makes you proud?

I am proud of being able to look in the mirror and know that my inner child is proud of me for being brave. I am who I wanted to be, and who I needed, when I was younger. I am proud of my ability to take a step outside of binary gender as a whole and step into me. That is what makes me proud.

What did it mean to you to be able to be an HRC grant recipient / ACTIVATE / ELEVATE / MOTIVATE / ELEVATÉ fellow? How has it impacted you personally and professionally?

Being an ACTIVATE fellow is a true honor. Being a young trans man, I was able to see many older black trans brothers like me and learn what they are doing in their communities. It was such an amazing, loving experience. It has impacted me personally and professionally by giving me more motivation to continue to make my work Afrocentric and Trans-centric. It had impacted me to continue to grow my network of black trans people so that I and we can be a resource for those that come after us. It has also impacted me to want to make these kinds of resources more accessible and available to our community in order to enhance that visibility.

We know that transgender and non-binary individuals—and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of color) transgender individuals in particular—are disproportionately impacted by HIV, and often underserved in traditional healthcare systems. How do HIV and other health disparities impact your community? [If your advocacy work relates to this issue, please let us know that as well.]

HIV and other health disparities such as menstruation, ovarian cancer, PCOS, and pregnancy mortality rates, affect my community as a transmasculine individual. Often times trans men are left out of the equation or representation when it comes to anything pertaining to ovaries and vaginal health.

HRC’s annual Fatal Violence Report talks about the factors that contribute to violence against transgender and non-binary people. In your area, how are trans and non-binary people impacted by violence? [If your advocacy work relates to this issue, please let us know that as well.]

In Georgia, specifically Atlanta, the majority of trans/GNC-based violence is experienced by black people, specifically black trans women. The main statistic is that the life expectancy of trans people is 35 years old. This is alarming and it is saddening that through all the sociological implications of black livelihood, we still aren’t fully free, and homophobia and transphobia runs rampant throughout our community.

Do you see depictions of yourself in the media? Have you seen examples of successful representation? What kinds of representation would you like to see?

I see and have seen successful depictions of trans men and trans masculine people, yes. Most of these representations are of white or asian individuals. I would like to see more dark skinned (brown or black), thick or thin, disabled and able-bodied, representations of transmasculinity; Not just the versions that are digestible for the majority population.

What did it mean to you to be able to be an HRC grant recipient / ACTIVATE / ELEVATE fellow? How has it impacted you personally and professionally?

It has been an honor to be in the first ELEVATE and ACTIVATE cohorts. We have been able to get empowered with the tools to better help my community. This year we finally were able to do the first ELÉVATE in Spanish for our Latino Community where I co-facilitated this cohort with another trans leader who was my mentee when I was in ACTIVATE and she was in ELEVATE.

Tell us about how you connect to your local community through your advocacy and/or professional work.

I have had the privilege to work for non-profits like Valley AIDS Council in Mcallen, Texas where I was a Condom Saturation and Risk Reduction Specialist. I would distribute condoms to 115 sites across 4 counties in the Rio Grande Valley and would do HIV/STI testing, and I would assist clients in finding treatment and care. In New York City, I worked for Latino Commission on AIDS where I was a Case Manager for Substance Use. I would help clients create goals to their sobriety and also help with linkage to healthcare, insurance, and housing. Currently, I work for Special Service for Groups and Asian Pacific AIDS Intervention Team (SSG/APAIT) in Los-Angeles as their Onsite Property Manager for a 56 room shelter that opened up in Hollywood in connection with the Los Angeles Department of Mental Health. I love that I am able to help my LGBTQI community by making sure that the rights of the homeless in my community are being protected.

We know that transgender and non-binary individuals—and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of color) transgender individuals in particular—are disproportionately impacted by HIV, and often underserved in traditional health care systems. How do HIV and other health disparities impact your community? [If your advocacy work relates to this issue, please let us know that as well.]

I believe there should be healthcare for all no matter who you are. We all deserve a better quality of life.

What brings you joy as a transgender and/or non-binary person?

Being my true self and being able to help my trans siblings in obtaining what they need in life.

What did it mean to you to be able to be an HRC grant recipient / ACTIVATE / ELEVATE fellow? How has it impacted you personally and professionally?

As a newer community leader, being part of the first ELÉVATE group was truly an honor. To me, it inspired me to get more serious about helping more trans folks in my community. Our group consisted of a wide range of advocates, and it was inspiring when you see the hard work and dedication that has been sustained to get us here. It’s our time to continue making our voices heard!

We know that transgender and non-binary individuals—and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of color) transgender individuals in particular—are disproportionately impacted by HIV, and often underserved in traditional health care systems. How do HIV and other health disparities impact your community? [If your advocacy work relates to this issue, please let us know that as well.]

Communities of color, especially in Florida, have disproportionately been affected by recently passed legislation along with dealing with barriers of implicit biases displayed by healthcare professionals.

The lack of sexual health knowledge in immigrant communities, which creates negative stigmas, is one of the challenges I face when creating events that can be educational and a new experience for Latinx communities with SomosLOUD.

With some of the recently passed bills, many trans folks were revoked access to providers they trusted and forced to go to providers who now have the right to discriminate against them at their will. Lack of access to HIV medication, HRT, and essential lifesaving healthcare has grown as many don’t know where is safe for them.

Tell us about how you connect to your local community through your advocacy and/or professional work.

As a community advocate, I utilize social media to share knowledge that can be beneficial to the community. I attend local events/town halls to really help determine the needs of the local community and their preferences. I helped create events/initiatives with SomosLOUD and as the Gender Justice lead for QLatinx.

Do you see depictions of yourself in the media? Have you seen examples of successful representation? What kinds of representation would you like to see?

To be honest, yes and no. The media has done a great job with intentionally including trans/non-binary folks in recent years, but I wish I can see more versatility in our narratives. Often times, transgender and non-binary characters are depicted by highlighting trauma stories with most having a “victory” ending, being hypersexualized, promiscuous or as a secondary character with only a few lines.

What did it mean to you to be able to be an HRC grant recipient / ACTIVATE / ELEVATE fellow? How has it impacted you personally and professionally?

I feel blessed that we have the power to be change the story of our trans community. We must fight together for a better quality of life for siblings.

Tell us about how you connect to your local community through your advocacy and/or professional work.

I have been able to connect with my local community through the non-profit organization that I founded 30 years ago. I also connect through my passion, commitment and fight for equity and healthcare for our community.

We know that transgender and non-binary individuals—and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of color) transgender individuals in particular—are disproportionately impacted by HIV, and often underserved in traditional health care systems. How do HIV and other health disparities impact your community? [If your advocacy work relates to this issue, please let us know that as well.]

This is a huge problem. Most of the transgender community has struggles with healthcare system and are mistreated so badly by healthcare providers. Unfortunately, our transgender community has been highly impacted by HIV due to lack of equity in employment opportunities, housing, and education, alongside other health disparities. It has been my fight for over 30 years to provide empathetic services and understand that every human being must be treated with dignity and respect no matter their sexual orientation, gender, race, color or religion. I always encourage my staff to treat everyone the way that they would like to be treated.

Do you see depictions of yourself in the media? Have you seen examples of successful representation? What kinds of representation would you like to see?

I do not see enough positive representation of black trans folks. We oftentimes are only seen in the media when one of us is murdered or commits some sort of crime. I truly believe if people like me were represented more often and positively it would change the mindset of some many people in this country.

We know that transgender and non-binary individuals—and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of color) transgender individuals in particular—are disproportionately impacted by HIV, and often underserved in traditional healthcare systems. How do HIV and other health disparities impact your community?

I know that black trans men are not at the table with it comes to preventative measures such as PREP. There is a misconception that trans men all have the same type of sex and that is just not true. Trans men contracting HIV is on the rise and we need to address this sector of the epidemic.

HRC’s annual Fatal Violence Report talks about the factors that contribute to violence against transgender and non-binary people. In your area, how are trans and non-binary people impacted by violence?

Atlanta is a progressive city in many ways but trans people are not protected as they should be. There needs to be more training with our police department and first responders. There need to be laws in place that make any type of violence against a trans person a hate crime.

What did it mean to you to be able to be an HRC grant recipient or cohort fellow? How has it impacted you personally and professionally?

I was honored. I get overlooked a lot when it comes to certain training opportunities. I believe my age is the reason why, people assume I know it all. Although I have been doing this work for a while, you can never know everything. This training taught me things I would have never learned without it and it was a great networking opportunity as well.

What did it mean to you to be able to be an HRC grant recipient or cohort fellow? How has it impacted you personally and professionally?

The MOTIVATE fellowship was eye-opening and life-altering. There are often times when we are searching for our village, but our journey takes its own course. The space that was created for us was intentional, brave and safe. The connections that I made are invaluable.

We know that transgender and non-binary individuals—and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of color) transgender individuals in particular—are disproportionately impacted by HIV, and often underserved in traditional healthcare systems. How do HIV and other health disparities impact your community?

Florida leads the nation in new HIV infections. TransInclusive Group hosts town halls centering conversations between Black transgender and Black cisgender while addressing the HIV epidemic within their demographic. The conversations stretch deeper addressing stigmatism and prevention while challenging faith-based organizations to join and host the conversations. We are also battling a governor who launched an attack directly against the transgender community. We are fighting to receive gender-affirming care. We are fighting for the parents of TGNC youth to maintain the right to make the best decisions for their children and families. We are fighting to use the restroom that best suits our personal identities. Collaboration has been key as we continue to fight this battle.

Tell us about how you connect to your local community through your advocacy and/or professional work.

I connect directly to my community by making myself accessible by sharing my time, talent, treasure and testimony. Having the opportunity to be actively involved with the community via TransInclusive Group during our bi-monthly meetings. I am also actively involved with the political education of our community via HRC and The Black Collective. I maintain an online presence as well as share milestones and community events. I believe getting and being involved is a form of self-care.

Do you see depictions of yourself in the media? Have you seen examples of successful representation? What kinds of representation would you like to see?

I can see my Black trans masculine individuals working to open the doors of opportunity for other trans masculine in Hollywood. Most recently, TRANSworld Atlanta shared multi-faceted stories, shattering the myths while educating the viewers. I see that we are making history in both film and television.

Tell us about how you connect to your local community through your advocacy and/or professional work.

Through my professional work and advocacy, I actively connect with my local community by bridging the worlds of social services and entrepreneurship. As a social worker turned entrepreneur pursuing an MBA, I've forged a unique path that encourages Black Queer individuals to break free from the confines of oppression and scarcity and instead embrace the notions of wealth and stability. As Project Manager of Project Innovate, a micro-grants program under THRIVESS is currently in its fourth cohort. Through this program, we empower aspiring entrepreneurs by helping them lay the foundational aspects of their visions, matching them with mentors, and encouraging them to align their brands with the social good of destigmatizing HIV. This innovative approach not only supports local businesses but also addresses pressing community issues, fostering positive change in the lives of marginalized individuals.

What did it mean to you to be able to be an HRC grant recipient or cohort fellow? How has it impacted you personally and professionally?

Being selected as an HRC MOTIVATE fellow, particularly as part of the first trans-masculine cohort, was a significant and validating experience for me. It reaffirmed that my unconventional advocacy efforts were being recognized and appreciated by a larger community. The fellowship provided me with invaluable tools, especially the negotiation skills imparted by Tori Cooper, which have profoundly impacted my personal and professional life. These skills have enabled me to secure better opportunities and create a more stable and fulfilling life for my family. Additionally, the fellowship fostered strong connections with fellow trans-masculine leaders, who played a pivotal role in helping me overcome postpartum depression, reinforcing the importance of community and support in our journey.

What do you wish more people knew about being transgender or non-binary in America?

I wish more people understood that being transgender or non-binary in America and anywhere in the world is a natural and beautiful aspect of human diversity, much like the vast array of flowering plant species on our planet. Transgender individuals are as unique and precious as rare flowers like the Middlemist Red. Just as God created the rich tapestry of plant life, they also created the diverse spectrum of human gender identities. Recognizing and embracing this diversity with love and acceptance can help us appreciate the beauty of our shared humanity.