Partner & Sponsorship Options

Troy Petenbrink: Freelance Journalist

Troy-Peterbrink

Troy Petenbrink is an awarding winning journalists and top rated influencer. His work has been published by The Miami Herald, Travel & Leisure, Destination Weddings & Honeymoons, TravelChannel.com, CruiseCritic.com, Newsweek.com, and many others. He also wrote a chapter in Fodor’s “535 Best Beaches in the U.S., Caribbean, and Mexico.” He is currently a contributor to NatGeo.com, MetroWeekly.com, and MensLife.com, and appears regularly on WTTG-TV.

Last year, he was a finalist in the Best of GayCities 2022 Awards in the “Insta Traveler” category, and his blog, TheGayTraveler.com, has consistently been ranked among the top gay travel blogs in the world.

An active member of the North American Travel Journalists Association, International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association, and International LGBTQ+ Travel Association, Troy is very knowledgeable of industry trends and needs – having presented at the VA Tourism Summit and PRSA Travel and Tourism Conference, and provided strategic counseling to multiple destinations and hospitality companies including Durham, N.C.; Santa Fe, N.M.; Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino; and Destination Hotels.

Dr. Byron Green: VP St Pete Pride

Byron-Green

Dr. Byron Green- Calisch (he/ him/his), is a successful coach, business owner, consultant, and public speaker. He holds a Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Doctorate of Education from North Carolina State University. His educational and research background centers in the intersection of Adult Education and D.E.I (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion). Dr. Green-Calisch worked in the housing space across multiple universities and sizes of departments in addition to working on the governing council for SEAHO. His experience as a Non-Profit Sr. DEI professional, corporate trainer, and peer-reviewed researcher led him to become an advocate for equity in all spaces, partnership, and collaboration. Dr. Green-Calisch believes in taking action, and building on one’s strengths and experiences to create a life and work that is Inclusive, flexible, energizing, and financially rewarding.

Building on his experiences and worldwide contacts, Dr. Green-Calisch created a successful consultancy that focuses on building assessments and bringing the coach approach to Educational Roadmaps that center Equity and Inclusion.

Rev. Kimberley Harrell: Spiritual Leader & CEO

Kimberley-Harrell

Rev. Kimberley Harrell is a spiritual leader, speaker and success coach. She is an ordained Minister and is CEO & Spiritual Leader at Unity of Gulfport in Florida. She was the CEO at Tennessee’s New Thought/Metaphysical Healing Arts Complex, The New Earth Center.

Dedicated to inspiring connection to the One Presence and One Power through present moment living and committed to excellence, she is a former USA Olympic Qualifying Athlete and a Veteran of the United States Marine Corps. Rev. Kimberley was a featured speaker at Carnegie Hall in 2019 for suicide prevention and awareness in the #neveralone movement with Dr. Deepak Chopra, Rev. Michael Bernard Beckwith, and Michel Pascal.

Nathan Breummer, Esq. - Florida's Former LGBTQ+ Consumer Advocate

Nathan-Bruemmer

Nathan Bruemmer is an attorney and advocate. He was born and raised in the Tampa Bay area. Nathan has served the people of Florida in several roles including working as a classroom teacher and later as a non-profit executive including leading a Florida LGBTQ+ youth center and Florida’s largest LGBTQ+ pride – St. Pete Pride. During Nathan’s tenure at St Pete Pride, he founded several events including the Trans Pride March, Transtastic, and the Tampa Bay Transgender Film Festival in partnership with Tampa Bay International Gay Lesbian Film Festival. Following his leadership at St Pete Pride, Nathan became the first transgender statewide appointed official in the United States when he served as Florida’s LGBTQ+ Consumer Advocate at the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services under Commissioner Nikki Fried’s leadership. Nathan’s lifelong commitment for justice and equity continues through his practice of law and service as a public policy advocate providing support and counsel to families, organizations, community leaders, and elected officials. As a subject-matter expert, Nathan is often invited as a presenter, keynote speaker and media interviewee. His LGBTQ+ advocacy and commitment to community has earned him a number of honors including being awarded the Silver Medallion Award by Community Tampa Bay in 2021, being named as one of Tampa Bay’s Most Remarkable People by Watermark Media in 2018; and being awarded the Outstanding Voice Award by the Tampa Bay Business Journal in 2017, 2018, and 2021.

Vicki Gibson: Owner, The Lady's Room

Vicki-Gibson

Vicki Gibson is the owner of the Lady’s Room restaurant and show bar in Largo, FL which opened in 2022. With its opening, Vicki created arguably the only dedicated lesbian bar currently in Florida. Vicki was born in Largo and raised in St Petersburg. She attended Culinary Institute in New York followed by Business School in Denver, CO and has spent the majority of her life in the culinary arts field. The Lady’s room is the result of Vicki’s desire to bring back the lesbian bar experience and create a safe space where the LGBTQ+ community could enjoy custom crafted food and drinks while enjoying the best in queer entertainment.

Cori Craciun: President, Naples Pride

Cori-Craciun

Info Coming Soon…

Jay Miah: Vocalist, The Voice & Alter Ego

Jay-Miah

Jay Miah Is a powerhouse vocalist with a 5 octave voice range. A graduate of University of South Florida garnering a Music Studies Degree. Jay has sang for over 25 years old. Born in Longwood florida is a first generation Puerto Rican American with a mission to spread love to all people. Raised with the knowingness that nothing separates you from God.

“Music is the language of all people. It connects us like tapestry music is our Unity.” ~ Jay Miah

Jay Miah appeared on NBC’s The Voice where he wowed the judges with his unique style. After was hand selected to be on Fox’s New state of the art show called “Alter ego” leveraging AI.

Sarah Potenza: Singer/Songwriter, The Voice and America's Got Talent

Sarah-Potenza-Yellow

Sarah Potenza is a critically acclaimed singer and songwriter with a nationwide fanbase. She competed on NBC’s The Voice, and America’s Got Talent. In 2021 her rendition of “Worthy” on her sophomore album “Road to Rome” hit number one on the iTunes Blues Charts. “The songstress delivered a stunning rendition of a song called “Worthy” that is such a perfect summation of her life and her goals and her message” – Entertainment Tonight. The album received rave reviews from Rolling Stone, Billboard, American Songwriter, and NPR. Potenza, was named amongst the top three acts seen at SXSW by Rolling Stone Magazine.

Stacy Ritter: President and CEO of Visit Lauderdale

Stacey Ritter

Stacy Ritter CDME, has drastically reshaped the organization’s mission since her appointment in 2016. With a $14 million budget and a team of 45 sales and marketing professionals, Ritter has effectively rebranded the destination from a “beach location” to an upscale, diverse area attracting various visitor demographics. Initiatives she championed include leveraging data-driven analytics to understand visitor preferences, focusing on the area’s Caribbean and LGBT+ communities, and promoting Fort Lauderdale as a premium culinary destination. The rebranding has seen the successful introduction of renowned hotel brands such as Ritz Carlton, Conrad, Four Seasons, and the W, and a significant increase in both domestic and international flights to the region. The GFLCVB’s innovative marketing campaigns under Ritter’s leadership have also won numerous accolades, including an Emmy for its “Greater Together” initiative. A significant expansion of the Broward County Convention Center is underway, expected to elevate the destination’s appeal for large-scale conventions. Before GFLCVB, Ritter was an elected Broward County Commissioner and served as the County’s Mayor from 2008 to 2009. She also represented the 96th District in the Florida House of Representatives from 1996 to 2004. Among her many achievements, she has been recognized as one of the 50 Most Powerful People in Broward and was instrumental in the expansion of Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Born in Washington, D.C., Ritter moved to Broward County in 1974, graduated from Nova Southeastern College of Law, and resides in Fort Lauderdale with her family.

Scott Wismont: Owner, Rainbow Getaways

Scott Wismont

Scott Wismont, CTA, is the owner of Rainbow Getaways, an LGBTQ Travel Concierge. As a cis-gay male, Scott founded Rainbow Getaways because he believes that everyone deserves to travel, regardless of who they love or how they want to travel. Scott started his career in the travel industry as a travel advisor in 2015, using the travel pause during the pandemic to follow his dream of starting an agency that focuses on the entire LGBTQ community and not just a specific niche. Scott sits on the board for the Central Florida Chapter of ASTA and is a member of IGLTA, the Central Florida Pride Chamber, and The Osceola Chamber of Commerce. Scott makes his knowledge of LGBTQ Travel accessible through interviews in print magazines, podcasts, and personal coaching to all travel advisors so they can better assist members of the community in serving their clients. Scott completed his MBA in International Business from Bellevue University in 2018 and, in 2021, became a Certified Travel Associate from the Travel Institute.

Santiago Corrada: President and CEO, Visit Tampa Bay

Santiago Corrada

Santiago C. Corrada is an accomplished, recognized leader with over twenty five years of public service experience, with proven success in effectively and efficiently transforming the professional culture of many diverse institutions. Santiago officially began his position as President and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay in May of 2013. He serves as main spokesperson for the tourism and hospitality industry; ensures stakeholders coordinated efforts in collaboratively increasing visitation to the destination while maintaining open lines of communication with all industry stakeholders. The organization has been awarded numerous marketing awards over the past several years including HSMAI Platinum Adrian Awards, Henry Awards at Visit Florida’s Flagler Award Ceremony and more. During this time, the Industry has experienced record-breaking bed tax collection years and leads all comp sets again this year. Corrada is a huge proponent of inclusivity and destination leadership. Under his leadership VTB has been recognized as a leader in inclusive, multicultural and LGBTQ marketing.

Ryan Williams-Jent: Managing Editor for Watermark

Ryan-Williams-Jent

Ryan Williams-Jent (He/Him/His) is a husband, dog dad, Cheez-It connoisseur and comic book superfan. He and his husband live in St. Petersburg where he’s the proud Managing Editor for Watermark, the LGBTQ+ news source that’s served Central Florida and Tampa Bay since 1994. Learn more at WatermarkOnline.com.

Roger Curlin: Executive Director of the EDGE District

Roger Curlin

Roger is a multi-generational Floridian born in Tampa, raised in Brandon & Bradenton, and has called St.Petersburg home since 1999. As Executive Director of the EDGE BDA, he has three core roles: (1) Advocating on behalf of the District, (2) Promoting the District and its businesses, and (3) Educating the District through seminars, masterminds, and consultations. The EDGE District is home to nearly 200 businesses, thousands of employees, over 2,000 residents, and hosts millions of resident/tourist visitors each year. Roger mentors and moderates the monthly Entrepreneurial Academy Alum Business Builder, serves on the Marketing Committee for Creative Clay, and is currently a Board Member for the St. Pete Opera. His recent roles have included Director of Development for the St. Pete Opera, Owner/Founder of Club Savor (member dining club), and executive administration for Continuing Legal Education programs at Stetson, Holland and Knight, and Carlton Fields. Roger is also an attorney and an alum of Stetson Law School, where he graduated in 2002, as well as a proud Gator graduate from the University of Florida undergrad. His passions include cards, billiards, and bowling – three of the more demanding sports athletically. Roger’s core philosophy for surviving and thriving in our rapidly evolving business and social environment is based on two concepts: Collaboration with the community and Engagement with your customers.

Pony Charvet: Pony Charvet, LGBTQ Sales

Pony Charvet

With nearly 30 years of living in the Florida Keys, Pony is an enthusiastic source of knowledge for those interested in exploring the Florida Keys, which he describes as “close to perfect, far from normal.” Pony’s upbringing on a small island near Seattle, Washington exposed him to a world of travel and adventure from a young age, thanks to his adventurous family. Spending much of his time exploring the west coast of the United States and Canada, Pony eventually moved to Los Angeles in his early 20s. However, he soon discovered that the allure of the big city was overshadowed by a yearning for the intimacy and sense of community found in a small town. Leaving Los Angeles behind, Pony embarked on various travel adventures, including working with Arabian horses in Montana and participating in numerous Hop Harvests in Washington State. Eventually settling down in Santa Fe, New Mexico, he spent a decade engaging in activities such as white water rafting, snowboarding, horseback riding, hiking, and working alongside indigenous communities to preserve their native culture. It was during this period that Pony’s passion for travel truly blossomed. In the past 30 years, Pony has embarked on numerous remarkable adventures, including hiking a portion of the Appalachian Trail, walking the Camino De Santiago, skiing the French Alps, dog sledding in North Pole, Alaska, and hang gliding in Rio de Janeiro. In the early 1990s, Pony found his home in the Florida Keys, where he has since become an integral part of the island’s culture, engaging in various activities such as fishing, diving, dining, performing, and working as a stand-up comedian. Through these experiences, Pony has gained a unique insight into the vibrant lifestyle of the Florida Keys, which he delights in sharing with all visitors to the area.

Nathan Daugherty: Pianist

Nathan Daugherty

Nathan Daugherty is a Tampa Bay theater performer, musical director, and bandleader. He has performed for over 20 years in musical theatre and burlesque, specializing in vocal performances and immersive events. Nathan is the co-owner of NDTheatricals, a full service entertainment company that produces theatrical events all over Florida and beyond. You can follow Nathan online @BurlyNathan on social media and BurlyNathan.com.

Momma Ashley Rose: Drag Queen, Performer & Philanthropist

Momma Ashley Rose

Momma Ashley Rose has been a family friendly drag performer for over 20 years. A philanthropist, public speaker, activist, singer, song writer, drag performer and more! She is the founder and president of Rose Dynasty Foundation Inc. Momma has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for charities across the country. Creating safe spaces for all ages through performance and visual arts, story times, conferences, festivals, pageants and many other types of events. She mentors LGBTQ+ youth and families while spreading the message everyone is Loved, Accepted, and Wanted!

Michelle Pirre: Naples Marco Island Everglades CVB

Michelle-PIrre

Michelle Pirre is a seasoned professional in the tourism industry, currently spearheading specialty market strategies at Naples Marco Island Everglades CVB. Renowned for her proficiency in various niche markets, Michelle has built significant expertise in the LGBTQ+, small meetings, and destination wedding sectors. Prior to her role at the DMO level, Michelle was a Sales Coordinator at Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham where she honed her sales and customer service skills. Adding a unique twist to her professional arc, Michelle also gained invaluable experience as a poker dealer at various prestigious casinos in Atlantic City, NJ. This varied background contributes to her ability to understand and cater to diverse audience preferences. Michelle’s ability to craft compelling narratives about the Naples, Marco Island, and Everglades region is bolstered by her strong communication skills, networking savvy, and passion for inclusivity, making her an instrumental figure in driving the growth and success of Florida’s Paradise Coast.

Matt Skullerad: President, Pink Media

Matt Skallerud

Matt Skallerud, president of Pink Media, specializes in LGBTQ+ online marketing, targeting gays & lesbians via content marketing, social media, programmatic ad banners, mobile smartphone apps and more. He also specializes in search engine optimization (SEO), key word / search advertising (PPC) and social media analytics. He’s been in the LGBTQ+ online industry for over 20 years now. Matt Skallerud began his online career in May 1995 with the launch of GayWired.com, which became one of the top 3 LGBTQ websites worldwide. Having worked with companies, large and small, for more than 20 years to reach the LGBTQ+ online consumer through this site and others, he is now focused on the most cutting-edge global innovations in programmatic ad buying, social networking and Web 2.0 technologies. He empowers his clients to reach the LGBTQ market using the most advanced techniques taking hold in the online marketing world today, including Real-Time Ad Bidding (RTB), Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Google Plus, YouTube, blogs and others. In addition, Skallerud is the former Board Chairman of the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA) and has served on the boards Travel Gay Canada (TGC) and the LAGLCC. He is actively involved with key national LGBTQ+ organizations including the NGLCC, Out Professionals and Lambda Legal, just to name a few.

LoAnn Holden: VP of Communications, IGLTA

LoAnn Halden

LoAnn Halden (she/her) is Vice President-Communications for the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA), the global leader in advancing LGBTQ+ travel. IGLTA’s network consists of 12,500+ tourism business professionals in approximately 80 countries. The IGLTA Foundation, founded in 2012, is the philanthropic arm of the association, supporting the tourism industry with leadership, research, and education. In her role, LoAnn frequently speaks to media outlets about LGBTQ+ tourism trends and the importance of inclusive tourism. She has participated in travel sessions for consumers and trade on five continents. Prior to IGLTA, she spent 14 years as a writer and editor for LGBTQ+ and travel publications. She is based in London with her wife.

Jillian Abby: Author and Creative Writer

Jillian Abby

Jillian Abby is one of Hay House Publishing’s newest authors with her memoir, Perfectly Queer, available across the US, UK, and Canada. She is also the owner of Storyteller Soul, LLC, a creative writing business that helps top corporate leaders connect their personal stories to the mission and vision of their business through speeches, blogs, articles, and internal social media networks. Jillian is a proud advocate for the LGBTQ+ community through her podcast, Life and Love in the Q, her blog QueerAbby.com, and the non-profit she serves, Tampa Bay Homeschool Inclusive Events.

Jennifer Clark Fugolo: VP of Advancement, AHLA Foundation

Jenn-Fuglio

Jenn Fugolo is Vice President of Advancement for the AHLA Foundation, which the charitable giving arm of the American Hotel & Lodging Association dedicated to helping people build careers, improve their lives, and strengthen the lodging industry. The organization provides impactful solutions that drive the recruitment, retention, and development of individuals for life-long careers in hospitality. At AHLAF, Jenn is responsible for the Foundation’s DE&I efforts, which includes driving the successful implementation of its multi-year strategic DE&I plan for the industry. Jenn joined the Foundation from Sunrise Senior Living, where, as Senior Director, she led the company’s corporate communications function spanning crisis and reputation management, employee communications, executive visibility, and various aspects of external communications. In addition, she architected the company’s DE&I roadmap and helped introduce new approaches to employee engagement through a DE&I lens. Jenn started her career at global public relations and marketing agency FleishmanHillard, where she served a range of non-profit, government, and corporate clients. Jenn received her undergraduate degree in Journalism from the University of Maryland, College Park, and DE&I certification from Cornell University.

Jeff Klein: Comedian

Jeff-Klein

A stand-up comedian born and raised in Florida, Jeff has made a name performing all over the US and heavily in Florida. His humor has been described as “funny”, “I’ll still be thinking about your jokes next week”, and “huh”. He always brings his razor sharp wit to any situation and has performed with comics like Helen Keaney, Danny Bevins, Jay Mohr, and Alonzo Bodden. Jeff also hosts a weekly online show called Beer with a Queer where he seamlessly blends reviews of beers he tends not to like with talking about pressing issues in the community. On BWAQ he has also had the opportunity to talk to such personalities as Rick Kriseman (while he was mayor of St Petersburg), radio personality Mike Calta, as well as comedians Joe “Mr. D” Dombrowski and Robert Kelly. If you’re asking yourself, what else can this man do…he also wrote and created the yet to be award winning series Outside a Comedy Club, as well as performed in the San Francisco Comedy Competition and performed in LA and Miami Pride Comedy Festivals.

Greg DeShields, CHE, CDE: Executive Director, Tourism Diversity Matters

Greg-DeShields

Qualified tourism/hospitality and academic professional Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) proficient in developing and implementing plans, strategies, and initiatives specifically designed to raise destination’s image for diverse, multicultural travel. Experienced Certified Diversity Executive (CDE) with demonstrated cultural competence. Prepared to strategically position an organization to remove systemic barriers to inclusion, lead culture change, and transform the brand. Graduate of Johnson & Wales University Providence, Rhode Island, with an A.S. Degree in Hotel & Restaurant Management; and a B.S. in Hospitality Management. Certifications: University of South Florida Muma College of Business Ethical and Inclusive Leadership and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace Certificate Professional Development Leadership Graduate: Institute for Diversity Certification, Urban League of Philadelphia, Leadership Forum, Leadership Philadelphia, and Greater Philadelphia Leadership Exchange. Greg is a longtime Tourism and Hospitality professional, a native Philadelphian with a passion for his work, and is dedicated to giving back to the next generation of hospitality leaders. Frequent presenter, specific Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Fundamentals: Assessment, Planning, Strategies, and Implementation to reinforce the need for organizations to lead inclusion from the top.

Mayor Jane Castor: City of Tampa

Mayor-Jane-Castor

Born and raised in Tampa, Mayor Jane Castor has spent a lifetime in service to the community, becoming the first female Chief of Police and Tampa’s 59 th Mayor. Under her leadership, the City of Tampa has received several awards and recognitions including Best City in Florida, Best City for Veterans to Live in, one of the Most Fun Cities in America, and among the TIME Magazine 2023 World’s Greatest Places. Under her vision of Transforming Tampa’s Tomorrow, she is focused on addressing the city’s most pressing issues: transportation, workforce development, affordable housing, sustainability, resilience, and expanding parks and recreation services. Mayor Castor is a proud Seminole Heights resident where she lives with her longtime partner Ana Cruz, both Tampa natives who enjoy fishing, Lightning hockey games, and family time with their two sons Sergei and Seely.

Jaime & Katie Filer: Owners, Filer Fitness & Influencers

Jaime-and-Katie Jaime and Katie Filer have been married since 2018 and Instagram influencers since 2019, but their moms have been sharing their photos through the internet since the early 90’s. They share a passion for all things queer, fitness, and fun. Together, they run Filer Fitness; an online health coaching business that specializes in helping the LGBTQ+ community overcome overwhelm, reduce anxiety, and build confidence through movement and nutrition. The fact that they live, work, and go to the gym together 24/7 means they could snap at any minute. This is one dynamic duo you don’t want to miss!

David Downing: Host of Undiscovered America

David-Downing

Moderator David Downing has interviewed a wide range of personalities, from hospitality industry luminaries and Tech CEO’s to LGBTQ+ leaders and icons, including CNN’s Anderson Cooper, Queer Eye and RuPaul’s Drag Race star Carson Kressley and Olympic figure skating superstar Brian Boitano. A longtime hospitality industry marketing and branding executive, Downing is also host and executive producer of Undiscovered America, an all-new behind-the-scenes travel show that will air across the US this fall.

Dan Rios: Director of LGBTQ+ Marketing and Tourism, Greater Miami CVB

Dan Rios

For more than a decade, Dan Rios has spearheaded the production of LGBTQ+ communication and marketing initiatives at the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB), the official destination marketing organization for Greater Miami and Beaches. Currently acting as the Director of the Bureau’s LGBTQ+ Marketing and Tourism division, Dan and his team ensure that Greater Miami continues to welcome all LGBTQ+ visitors to the community in a respectful, hospitable manner. The LGBTQ+ Marketing Division provides potential visitors and travel industry professionals with resources for planning, marketing, and selling the destination. Among Dan’s top accomplishments is designing the Miami Begins with Me LGBTQ+ Sensitivity and Awareness Training, an in-person or online course that trains hospitality professionals on the best practices for providing welcoming and inclusive experiences for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and gender nonbinary visitors and their families to the Miami region. Dan has also spearheaded key initiatives such as developing the first Miami Boutique Hotels Directory and its reimagination as Bütik, Miami’s boutique lifestyle magazine. Dan Rios has dedicated over twenty years to the marketing and communications industry. Prior to joining the GMCVB, Dan was an Art Director at Morgan Stanley and a designer at the reputable O Design Group in New York City, working on projects for luxury brands such as Salvatore Ferragamo and Moët Hennessy.

David Fischer: Owner of ZaZoo’d, The Saint Speakeasy, COCKtail, The Wet Spot and The Mari Jean hotel

David-Fischer

After retiring as a 25 year executive at Darden Restaurants, David Fischer, the owner of ZaZoo’d, The Saint Speakeasy, COCKtail, The Wet Spot and The Mari Jean hotel selected St Petersburg as his new home. Owning small businesses in a city that embraces and welcomes them while having a close proximity to the beach, Fischer’s happy place, made this city the dream location for the next phase of his life. In fact, David’s home décor, gift shop and interior design business ZaZoo’d has done so well for the past 10 years that he has since opened 4 more businesses in this great city; David’s new ventures are all located in a historic hotel in downtown St Pete he has meticulously renovated called the Mari Jean. The expansive project is the areas biggest adults only gay resort housing The Saint, an award winning speakeasy, COCKtail, a high-energy award winning gay dance bar, The Wet Spot, a pool bar and day club and most recently the fully renovated Mari Jean adults only gay hotel.

Christopher MacLellan: Founder & CEO, TLO Travel and Tours, Inc

Christopher MacCelllan

Christopher MacLellan and his now-deceased partner were featured in a 2015 Pulitzer Prize-nominated story entitled, “In Sickness and In Health: A Couple’s Final Journey which propelled him to write a book “What’s The Deal with Caregiving and establish TLO Travel and Tours in 2017.

One of the goals at TLO Travel and Tours is to create a community that not only travels together but supports each other before, during, and after caregiving ends.

Now Chris is setting sail to new horizons by AgingGayfully ™ with a focus on Adventure, Travel, and Leisure because everyone wants to Age Gayfully!

Kevin Finke: Keynote Speaker, The Belonging Journey

Kevin-Finke

Kevin, the kid who never stopped asking why, has a contagious curiosity that continues to drive him today. He designs experiences for leading brands like Disney, HBO, Heineken, and Coca-Cola, infusing his creations with his insatiable desire to understand how things work and make them better. Kevin co-founded Experience Willow, an LGBT-certified design firm, in 2012. The firm aims to spark curiosity and unleash creativity to improve lives and organizations.

During his consulting role with NCR, a global tech leader, Kevin was recognized as a 2017 HR Executive Rising Star. He played a vital role in shaping culture, employer branding strategies, and transforming recruitment, onboarding, talent management, leadership development, and workplace experiences.

Experience Willow’s outstanding achievement came in 2021 when their “On the Move to Midtown” project won the BizBash Team Building Event of the Decade. This six-month experience facilitated the successful transition of 2,600 NCR employees to their new technology campus in Atlanta through two pillar event campaigns.

Beyond his work, Kevin thrives on stage, captivating audiences as an energetic emcee, speaker, and workshop facilitator, sharing his passion and knowledge with the world.

Trevor Pettiford: Spectrum News Reporter, Bay News 9

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Trevor Pettiford may not be a native Floridian, but he knows that nothing beats the Tampa Bay weather. Trevor began working at Spectrum News in May of 2011. He loves being a journalist because he says he gets to meet “people from across the ‘Spectrum’ of human existence.” He says his job constantly reminds him not how different we all are, but rather how much everyone has in common.

A five time nominated and one time Emmy Award winning broadcast journalist, Trevor says great storytelling is when the audience comes away feeling like they’ve learned something meaningful from a story. He’s most honored by the key he was given to his hometown city of Dayton, Ohio. He covered seven years of government and politics.

But better than any Emmy or Key to any city, Trevor says, is the impact of his work. After airing a story about a family in a homeless shelter who was split up because of gender, someone in the community came forward with a job and a place for the family to live. Trevor takes pride in giving people an understanding of the world around them and encouraging them to take an active role.

If Trevor isn’t on air, you might find him camping – not glamping! Or on weekend mornings when he’s not in the great outdoors, he loves St. Pete’s Saturday Morning Market. He says The Florida Orchestra is definitely the best kept secret – especially since his husband, Clay Ellerbroek, is the Principal Flutist.

Emily Parli: Senior Digital Media Manager, Orange 142

Emily Parli

Emily is a veteran tourism marketing and advertising strategist for over 13 years and has worked directly with tourism organizations in over 30 states + international. Her expertise spans across multiple marketing mediums; from print, streaming audio, digital, Google, Meta, creative and brand development. A self-proclaimed travel nerd, Emily finds that she was made for helping story-tell for her destination partners and making an impact on visitation. Emily recently relocated from Nashville, Tennessee to Navarre, Florida with her husband, Jared, two children; Penelope (3) and Roman (8mos), and two dogs; Ajax & Finn.

Teri Gayle Johnston: Mayor of Key West

Teri Gayle Johnston

Teri Gayle Johnston is the 2nd female to serve as Mayor of Key West in the past 200 years and the 1st woman ever to be re-elected Mayor of Key West. Johnston had previously served eight years on the City Commission and represented the County serving on the Monroe County Land Authority Board and Planning Commission and numerous boards and committees.

Teri was born and raised in Conrad, Iowa, attending John F. Kennedy College on one of the first athletic scholarships offered to women. She is a three-time All-American softball player and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Teri spent 21 years with the privately held corporation Hollister Incorporated, a manufacturer of disposable healthcare equipment. She began her career at Hollister in sales, human resources, and sales management for their domestic division. Teri was promoted to their International Sales and Marketing Division and retired in 1995 as Director of Marketing for their European Division based in Wokingham, England.

In 1995 Teri became co-owner of Affiliated Design & Construction Managers, LLC specializing in new construction, renovations, and historic restorations.

Teri’s personal life is centered on her partner of 38 years, Dar Castillo; daughters Stacy Ryan and Jennifer Castillo; son-in-laws Dan Ryan and Vincent Luisi; granddaughters Scoutt Ryan, Reily Ryan, Avery Capcik, and Harper Luisi; her Cavalier King Charles spaniels Oliver and Gracie, and finally Lily, the cat.

Richard Gray: SVP of Inclusion & Accessibility for Visit Lauderdale

Richard-Gray

Since the mid-1990s, Richard has used marketing campaigns to ignite social change. Richard’s vision formed what was the first-ever dedicated LGBT+ marketing campaign at a Destination Marketing Organization in 1995. Under his leadership, the groundbreaking Celebrate You campaign was the first to feature real-life models representing disabled, plus-sized, non-binary, trans, gay, lesbian, straight and dressed in drag. As part of this campaign, black and brown were added to the Pride colors to show commitment and belief in black and brown people, making Visit Lauderdale the first DMO to add these colors. His work with the transgender community lead to Visit Lauderdale being the first DMO to be recognized by the U.N. for support of the transgender community. The recipient of countless honors, Richard was named by Out Magazine as an OUT 100 Innovator and one of the 100 most influential LGBT+ people in the United States. Most recently Equality Florida honored Richard with their Equality Means Business Award.

Silver Foxx: Drag King Performer & Minister

Silver Foxx

Florida-based male impersonator/Drag King, the Silver Foxx, entertained audiences as a rock n roll singer in NY and NJ for over four decades. He won his first drag competition in 1989 in New York City performing as Sonny Bono.

After relocating to Gulfport Florida in 2021, Silver was asked to compete in a local competition and was successfully crowned the King of West Florida.

He soon realized there were very few male impersonators, like himself, and founded the drag king troupe Bois of Florida.

Out of drag, Dr. B has been an advocate for the GLBT community since the 1980s. After being fired for being gay in 1991, she came all the way out of the closet three years later as the Assistant Director of Communications for Gay Games IV in New York City. She was interviewed by TV, radio and newspapers around the world. That was just the beginning.

Dr. B marched in Long Island’s first pride parade, despite protests surrounding the parade route. Sharp shooters were lined along the rooftops of the buildings in case of a riot.

Dr. B could be seen protesting and marching at rallies, often dressed in her minister’s collar and acting as a spokesperson on behalf of the community.

She became a strong advocate for same sex marriage and had the honor of officiating New York’s largest same sex mass wedding when marriage equality was passed.

Tommy Whitehead: President, TomCo Solutions & President of the Tampa Bay Bears

Tommy Whitehead

Tommy Whitehead is a Licensed Residential Contractor, and President and CEO of TomCo Solutions, Inc. — one of only 50 certified LGBTQ Business Enterprises (LGBTBE) in the construction industry nation wide.

He’s also a passionate volunteer and fundraiser for many worthy causes, including serving as current President of the Pride Construction Coalition, current President of the Tampa Bay Bears, former Treasurer of the GaYbor District Coalition, and in 2023 he was honored as one of the 2023 Tampa Bay Business Journal OUTstanding Voices.

When he’s not working or volunteering, Tommy enjoys theme parks, museums and relaxing by a pool with his husband, Nathan, and their teenage son, Matthew.

Cindi Miller: Shandi Travel, Cruise Planners

Cindi Miller

Cindi Grace is a woman who has lived a life of challenge and success. She has been through multiple major life transitions, including transgender transition and career transition. Cindi is married to the love of her life and they have been together for 32 years and have two adult children.

Cindi knows and understands what it is to live with gender dysphoria and try to make life work while living an inauthentic version of oneself. In addition to her own personal challenges she has a child with autism and one who is also transgender. She understands what transition looks like from all angles.

Over the years she has learned the secrets on how to move from simply surviving life to taking charge and learning to thrive with life. She has a Masters in Counseling and Psychology as well as a Master of Divinity and Theology. Cindi has worked in churches as an ordained minister, has been a licensed mental health therapist, is a trained transition coach, and has built a very successful insurance business.

Cindi recently launched a travel advisor business and loves helping the LGBTQ+ community travel the world. She has learned how to fail and how to succeed. Cindi works with people all over the world. Her passion is helping others live their authentic lives in the best way possible.

Brianna Summers: Drag Queen/Performer

Brianna

Brianna Summers is a high energy entertainer and known as the Brunch Queen of Tampa Bay. Always expressing a vibrant personality and passion for the art form of drag, Brianna sure does know how to wow a crowd.

Brianna resides in Tampa, but is known to be a traveling diva who performs all over Florida. After trading in her boots and wranglers for high heels and extravagant fashions, Brianna advocates for those to be their true authentic selves.

What you can guarantee with Brianna Summers is that she‘s a true show stopper who always brings the heat.

Art Smith: Owner, Gay Barchives

Art Smith

In 1986, Art was tapped to edit and publish the Atlanta Guide, a monthly magazine for the gay community. He later went on to edit, publish and write for several other gay publications. Thus began nearly FORTY years of involvement with the gay communities in Atlanta, Austin and Tampa. In 2000, he spearheaded a fundraising project with a Swiss watch brand and the Elton John AIDS Foundation. He has also hosted and produced hundreds of video segments from a number of gay pride festivals in the Southeastern US with Channel125.com. In 2019 he was chosen by Pride365 as a Champion. His latest project #GayBarchives is creating the world’s largest archive of the stories and logos of gay bars from our past. He has conducted more than 100 video interviews documenting the rich and colorful history of our gay bars and digitally reconstructed thousands of gay bar logos. Information about this project can be found at GayBarchives.com.

Angelique Young: Trans Activist/Drag Queen

Angelique Young

Angelique Young is a proud outspoken Afro Latina Trans woman and Drag Queen Entertainer. When she Isn’t lighting up the stage and providing safe spaces for performers to cultivate their art form and self-expression, she can be found educating communities on local legislation and fighting for equal rights for all. Known as a public speaker and motivational mentor, she travels to various schools and colleges to teach students crucial techniques to fight against anxiety, notice triggers, and communication techniques that will help them through tough times.

Barbara Karasek: CEO & Co-Owner, Paradise Advertising & Marketing Inc.

Barbara Karasek

Barbara Karasek is a seasoned business leader with over 25 years in global brand and consumer marketing. She held executive roles at renowned organizations like SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, PGA TOUR, and NASCAR, managing divisions like sponsorship, licensing, e-commerce, and retail. Karasek gained significant experience and business acumen early in her career, living and working in multiple countries. Her achievements include award-winning marketing projects such as the NASCAR Street Tour, SeaRescue, SeaWorld’s Emmy-winning TV show, and various strategic partnerships. In 2018, Karasek, along with her husband, co-acquired Paradise, marking her entry into the tourism industry. She leverages her extensive marketing expertise and broad business network to devise superior strategies for diverse clients, including hotels, resorts, destinations, airports, and sports entities. Karasek’s role at Paradise has solidified her reputation as a “Dot Connector,” innovating solutions and solving business challenges. A distinguished academic, Karasek holds a Master’s degree from the University of South Florida, is Six Sigma Certified, and a Harvard Business School graduate in Strategic Marketing Management. She’s active in industry associations and various committees. Together with her husband, Tony, a former pro basketball player, Karasek is an enthusiastic investor and entrepreneur, eagerly awaiting the launch of their culinary-centric community, CERES. Outside of work, Karasek enjoys family time, outdoor activities, philanthropy, and is perpetually in search of the ideal fishing spot.