These narratives reflect the ways in which curiosity and cultural immersion create deeper connections and open the door to a richer understanding of diverse identities. These stories celebrate personal journeys that encourage exploration, self-expression, and the breaking of boundaries, creating spaces for deeper connections and acceptance.
Words by Marc Graser
Photos by Maxwell Poth, Mahina Choy-Ellis, and courtesy of Khoa Tran, Rhonee Rojas, Lexie and Aisha Shaibu-Lenoir, Jon Kung and Netflix
Lei has always gravitated toward individuals who embody curiosity, exploration, and the celebration of inclusivity and identity—values that resonate deeply within queer culture. From redefining the rules of the wedding industry to embracing authenticity in food and travel, our favorite stories of 2024 showcase the transformative power of embracing new perspectives.
Planning the Perfect Queer Wedding
As the founder of The Gay Agenda Collective, Zabrina Zablan-Duvauchelle plays a crucial role in creating inclusive and memorable queer weddings in Hawaii. Inspired by her own challenging wedding planning experience, she focuses on authenticity and inclusivity. As she puts it, “You’ll never not remember your first queer wedding—it’s the most fun.” Her work advocates for a wedding industry that better serves LGBTQ+ couples by emphasizing thoughtful choices in vendors and guest lists, reflecting the essence of each couple’s love and community. “At its core, it’s about you and the people who love and surround you.”
For more, read the full article here.
Sasha Colby: Shining on the World Stage
Sasha Colby, a trailblazer as the first trans woman of color to win RuPaul’s Drag Race, speaks powerfully about the visibility of the LGBTQ+ community. In her words, “I want to be the representation that I never had.” Colby also emphasizes the importance of queer joy and breaking barriers, saying, “I hope that my visibility makes someone feel seen.” She’s certainly striking in the beautiful photos by Los Angeles photographer Maxwell Poth, who captures Colby’s strength, grace, and commitment to shine as bright as she possibly can.
For more, read the full article here.
Queer Nomads
Lexie and Aisha Shaibu-Lenoir, known as the Queer Nomads, use travel as a platform for LGBTQ+ advocacy and empowerment, particularly for Black and queer individuals. Through their work in queer wedding planning and LGBTQ+ tours, they challenge stereotypes and promote diverse representation. They emphasize, “Representation matters, especially in spaces where we’ve traditionally been excluded,” and highlight how travel fosters connection and freedom. Their advocacy inspires others to embrace the world with confidence and inclusivity.
For more, read the full article here.
Travel Through Touch
Vin Castillo’s transformative month in Thailand immersed him in the art of Thai massage, especially the Pa Khao Mah technique, which deeply influenced his wellness approach. Reflecting on the journey, he shares, “I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and experience a practice that has been passed down through generations.” Through his travels, he highlights how cultural exploration fosters personal growth, encouraging others to step out of their comfort zones, embrace unfamiliar cultures, and experience the profound insights travel offers.
For more, read the full article here.
Global Citizens
Khoa Tran and Rhonee Rojas stand out for their inspiring work as global citizens, combining travel with social impact. They’ve visited over 50 countries, using their platform to promote inclusivity, cultural understanding, and LGBTQ+ advocacy with others through their social media channels and brand partnerships. Their commitment to cultural immersion, helping communities, and promoting inclusivity resonates deeply, reflecting their purpose-driven travel. Their journey highlights the importance of community engagement, as seen through their involvement with initiatives like the Shintani Foundation. They highlight that travel is about more than adventure—it’s about forming meaningful connections and fostering global understanding. As they put it, their travels are “about giving back and being a part of something bigger.”
For more, read the full article here.
Third-Culture Kid
Jon Kung’s culinary journey focuses on blending pop culture with traditional dishes, embracing the complexities of identity. Reflecting on his experiences, he shares, “I learned to cook without pretension, to let food speak for itself.” Kung’s success on TikTok and with his cookbook Kung Food challenges notions of authenticity and highlights the richness of lived experiences, offering a fresh perspective on how food can unite diverse cultures.
For more, read the full article here.
Punny Traveler
Calum McSwiggan blends humor, travel, and LGBTQ+ advocacy in his storytelling. Known for his books Eat, Gay, Love and Straight Expectations, he highlights diverse queer experiences across the globe. McSwiggan reflects on how travel has deepened his understanding of LGBTQ+ issues, emphasizing the importance of embracing varied stories to challenge stereotypes. His work shows how travel can provide unique insights into the global LGBTQ+ community.
For more, read the full article here.
The Power of Netflix
While Chef Yoshihiro Imai’s story doesn’t directly feature a queer connection, his global exposure on Chef’s Table reflects the broader cultural trend of celebrating authenticity and inclusivity. His dedication to showcasing Kyoto’s culinary traditions and commitment to his craft aligns with values of embracing diversity and individuality, sentiments that resonate deeply with queer travelers seeking meaningful, authentic experiences. His journey illustrates how media can elevate local cultures, fostering a deeper appreciation of diverse voices.
For more, read the full article here.
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