By Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Curated by Malik Brown
In the dynamic landscape of social media, Black LGBTQ+ voices are rising as influential beacons of empowerment, education, and change. These ten remarkable individuals shape discussions on identity, love, and acceptance and amplify the community’s intersectional struggles and triumphs. From thought-provoking content to unapologetic self-expression, these influencers are redefining norms and inspiring others to embrace their authentic selves.
DaShawn Usher
DaShawn is a writer, executive producer, community mobilizer, and culture curator. DaShawn founded MOBI, a series of curated social connectivity events for gay and queer people of color to see their holistic selves while promoting community, wellness, and personal development.
Follow him at @dashawnusher
Dominique Morgan
As an activist, speaker, author, musician, and recording artist, Dominique has a powerful platform for her mission is to dismantle the systems that perpetuate violence against Black Trans people. With a decade of change-making artistry, advocacy, and background in public health, Dominique continues to work in spaces of sex education, radical self-care, and transformative youth development.
Follow Dominique @thedominiquemorgan
Victor Jackson
Victor Jackson has worked in entertainment for more than 15 years. As a choreographer and creative director, he has worked with superstars including Jennifer Hudson, Lil’ Wayne, and August Alsina and has appeared on several TV shows. Besides his incredible musical talent, Victor uses his voice to speak up for inequalities within his community.
Follow Victor @mrglamrocksoul
Chef Deborah VanTrece
Chef Deborah VanTrece is one of the South’s most recognized culinary personalities, best-selling author, and founder of the VanTrece Hospitality Group. As a female African American restauranteur, business owner, and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, Chef VanTrece is a passionate and vocal advocate for social justice, especially issues that impact marginalized and vulnerable populations.
Follow Deborah @ chefdeborahvantrece
Mary Anne Adams
Mary Anne Adams is the founder of ZAMI NOBLA, the National Organization of Black Lesbians on Aging. Deeply rooted in Atlanta, Georgia, the membership-based organization is committed to building a power base for Black lesbians over 40 living anywhere in the country.
Follow Mary Anne @ zaminobla
Alex Santiago
Alex is the Chief Executive Officer of Destination Tomorrow in Atlanta and the founder of I Am Human United, an organization committed to creating a safe space for individuals who are homeless, living with HIV, and trans youth, with a focus on those who experience discrimination due to their lifestyle or gender identity.
Follow Alex and his organization @iamhuman_foundation
Charles Stephens
Charles is the founder and Executive Director of The Counter Narrative Project (CNP). This non-profit shifts narratives about Black gay, bisexual, queer, and other men who have sex with men to change policy and improve lives.
Follow Charles @charlesdotsteph
Octavius Terry
Octavius is a realtor and CEO at the menswear lifestyle brand Octavius Marsion. He is also a noted stylist and fashion designer to the stars.
Follow him at @octaviusterry
Malik Khalid
Apart from being a truly gifted yoga instructor, a lululemon ambassador, and the founder of the Amador yoga community, Malik has also been outspoken on social media about his gender expression journey.
Follow them @ malikyoga_
Drew Friday
Known as one of Atlanta’s most well-known drag performers, Drew Friday, also known as Sevyen, has talked openly about her transition journey in the media. The self-proclaimed drag princess also stars on several YouTube shows, and her Instagram account is overflowing with fantastic content.
Follow Sevyen/Drew Friday @drewfriday_