LGBTQIA+ (U)

<p>A third-generation educator whose work centers on authenticity, belonging, and meaningful social change, Victoria Alexander invites audiences into an honest and interactive journey toward progress—not perfection.</p><p>With over half a million followers across social media platforms, Victoria is known for blending storytelling, scholarship, and cultural commentary to create “edu-taining” experiences that are as insightful as they are impactful.

Ben De Almeida—also known as BENOFTHEWEEK—is a content creator redefining digital entertainment with his signature charisma, sharp storytelling, and relatable humor. 

<p>Widely recognized for his expertise on global politics, history, and human rights, James Kirchick shares compelling insights on the most important issue in the world today — freedom.</p><p>James Kirchick is a journalist, commentator ,and the author of <em>Secret City: The Hidden History of Gay Washington,</em> a <em>New York Times </em>bestseller that explores the history of LGBTQ individuals in the U.S.

<p>With humor and empathy, Billie Lee shares her unique story to help individuals and groups combat microaggressions, amplify authenticity, and bring awareness to the LGBTQIA+ community.</p><p>Billie Lee is a transgender woman, actor, standup comedian, writer, producer, and activist. LogoTV named Billie as a 2018 honoree of Logo30 for raising awareness for the trans community. She was the first openly transgender cast member on BravoTV’s<em> Vanderpump Rules</em> and she continues to be an advocate and outspoken voice for the LGBTQIA+ community.

<p>Described by Billie Jean King as “a bold and dynamic force for good with the courage to fight for social justice, live authentically, and inspire others to do the same,” Joanna Lohman is committed to building a new generation of leaders who harness adversity as a catalyst for success.</p><p>Joanna Lohman is a former professional soccer player and member of the United States Women’s National Team. During her 16-year professional career, she built a platform for social impact and became the first player in Washington Spirit history to have her jersey retired.

<p>Amber Briggle (she/they) is a self-described “mamabear” of a transgender teen in Texas.</p><p>Amber and her family were investigated by the Texas Department of Family Protective Services for “child abuse” in 2022 after TX Gov. Greg Abbott directed the agency to open such cases against families like theirs.

<p>Jessamyn Stanley is an award winning yoga instructor, founder of The Underbelly, and author of <em>Every Body Yoga</em> and <em>Yoke</em>. She empowers her audience of 500k+ to break down barriers: both those that society has set and that they have set for themselves. </p><p>Jessamyn&#39;s work in the wellness space centers around being in community and creating space for students to restore and honor their authentic selves.

<p><span style="font-size: 13px;">Anika Collier Navaroli is an award-winning journalist and lawyer.

<p>C. Dixon Osburn is the Executive Director of the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, United States, a global NGO focused on strengthening democracy against the rising tide of extremism, hate and disinformation.

<p>Captain Sandy is a leader, hero and businesswoman whose exceptional leadership style has helped her to break through every obstacle in her path – from the glass ceilings and near-fatal accidents on land to pirates and fires at sea!</p>