What makes your style stand out?

You might notice a good portion of my profile photos are snapshots from my childhood. My parents always believed in supporting my independence and autonomy. Although I was born female, they allowed me to cut my hair and choose my clothes. I was often the subject of ridicule and was bullied in and out of school for my appearance. This never deterred me from wearing what I wanted. I have since grown into my style and confidence as a young transgender man.

What’s your dream fashion moment?

I'm not naive to the fact that I'm competing with incredible people. I may not have professional photos, but I have heart. I want to inspire others to be confident and determined in their identity. To know that I started my journey as the end of a joke but could find myself under a spotlight in the near future gives me a sense of pride. I can illuminate not only my future, but the hope for the futures of many others who are just like me, or who couldn't be more different from me.

What would you do with $20,000?

I'd donate it to ChiArts (the Chicago High School for the Arts) to ensure future generations of artists have the resources needed to keep the school open amidst the ongoing issues with CPS funding. This, my alma-mater, gave so many of us the foundation to become not only artists, dancers, musicians, actors and writers, but also thinkers, doers, makers and changers.