I first came to the Los Angeles LGBT Center as a sophomore in high school during the week of the Center’s annual Models of Pride youth conference.
I was in search of a supportive community and attending the conference changed my life. I had never before been in a space where I didn’t feel like an outsider, where I could be my authentic self.
After the event, I became a volunteer on the Models of Pride steering committee and, a year later, became a paid intern in charge of organizing the conference’s workshops. I soon became the assistant director of the conference and, in 2017, was named director of Models of Pride.
The conference brings youth from throughout California and the United States to experience a day of community and learning. I love having conversations with attendees which always reaffirms my commitment to the great work of the Center.
Working at the Center allows me to live out my values and to ensure that LGBTQ youth have the same support I did when I came to the Center in my teens. The Center saved my life growing up and working here allows me to give back to an amazing organization.
I am challenged every day and work with an amazing team to make real change in the world. I go home every day knowing I’m changing lives.
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Hometown: Alhambra, CA
Year Started At The Center: 2013
Staff Position: Events Coordinator, Children Youth & Family Services
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