Changemakers: Season 1

Role: Director, Editor

“Changemakers,” is a 4-part video series spotlighting Black LGBTQ small business owners and their impact within their local communities before and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The series, presented by Ally, is produced by NEON, GLAAD's ongoing digital content series that aims to increase the visibility of Black LGBTQ people. In a series of intimate short documentaries, “Changemakers” aims to amplify the stories of local heroes, and send messages of support and inspiration to LGBTQ and Black-owned small businesses.

Presented by Ally Financial & GLAAD

Episode 1: K.NGSLEY

Episode 1 spotlights Kingsley Gbadegesin, a first-generation Nigerian-American and a New York–based creator working to advance liberation for the Black community, the Queer community, and people of color. Kingsley is the founder and creator behind K.NGSLEY, a Black-owned brand aiming to reclaim and redefine the Black, Queer, Femme body and to create the tangible, direct support communities need today. Learn more about K.NGSLEY here.

Episode 2: BLK MKT Vintage

Episode 2 spotlights BLK MKT Vintage, a Brooklyn based antique/vintage concept shop, specializing in collectibles, cast-off's and curiosities, which represent the richness of Black history and lived experience. Curated by founders Jannah Handy and Kiyanna Stewart, the collection includes found items like vintage literature, vinyl records, clothing, art, housewares/decor, furniture and other goods. Learn more about BLK MKT Vintage here.

Episode 3: Black, Gifted & Whole

Episode 3 spotlights Black, Gifted & Whole , a non-profit founded by Guy Anthony to empower young queer Black men by acknowledging, celebrating and affirming their whole selves. Since its inception in 2015, Black, Gifted & Whole has helped over 19 students realize their college dreams and continues to be a beacon long after their freshman year. “We have literally built a pipeline from high school to college to the workforce,” Anthony explains and adds, “This is my love letter to Black, Queer students.” Learn more about Black, Gifted & Whole here.

Episode 4: Chef Joya

Episode 3 spotlights Chef Joya, a premiere vegan chef from Charlotte, North Carolina. Specializing in soul food, Caribbean, African and Latin cuisines, Chef Joya brings comfort food into green eating and loves to teach others how to find joy in doing the same.Learn more about Chef Joya here.