02/05/2025
Honored to receive the Leadership in Action Award at OutProLA’s 5-Year Anniversary! — Jan 30, 2025
“Five years ago, I went to the very first OutProfessionals Los Angeles event. I had no idea then that I’d be standing here today getting this award. In the last two years, I’ve been all in. My journey to leadership started with something simple—volunteering at the check-in table. That small step led me to take on more, and before I knew it, I was part of something bigger.
The best part? It’s not just about making professional connections—it’s about what happens when those connections turn into friendships. That’s the icing on the cake. I remember realizing, after a few events, that I kept seeing the same faces—people who actually wanted to be here. That’s when I knew we weren’t just networking, we were building a real community.
If this is your first event, I know it can feel intimidating walking into a room full of strangers. But here’s the thing—OutPro has ‘Connectors,’ people who help break the ice and introduce you to others. I was one of them once. So if you’re on the fence, just jump in. And if you start to feel wobbly, we’ve got you.
OutPro also pushed me out of my comfort zone. It gave me the confidence to mentor outside my field and connect with professionals at all stages of their careers. And honestly? I’ve learned just as much as I’ve given.
So if there’s one thing I hope you take away tonight, it’s this: Getting involved in OutProfressionals isn’t just about networking—it’s about showing up, finding your people, and growing together. Whether you come to events, volunteer, or take on a leadership role, every bit helps build this community. And the best part? You get just as much as you give.
Thank you for this incredible honor—let’s keep building together!”