Rina, Pride Champion

When you were growing up, could you ever have imagined that you'd be in a series like this?

Never would I have ever imagined being involved in a series like this growing up as a teenager in Thornhill, Ontario. The place where I grew up was mostly closed-minded at that time. Everyone tried to fit in, dressing the same, acting the same, and differences were not celebrated as much as they are today. It's very refreshing to see that the world has changed so much since those times, however we still have a long way to go!

Why were we lucky enough for you to agree to this series? Why did you want to do it?

When I was first approached, my first instinct was to say yes but then some doubts crept in. I almost decided not to do it, but after much thought, I realized that it's more important than ever to be involved in projects like these to have representation for the next generation of young adults who may struggle with the same issues.

Many of the Pride month activities are rooted in large public celebrations. With those kinds of events prohibited due to COVID-19, how will you celebrate pride this year?

I am a digital and fine artist, and I will be celebrating by expressing myself through art. I plan on doing a pride series, highlighting influential people in the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

Is there a piece of advice you'd like to share with individuals struggling to be accepted (either by others, or themselves)?

Please know that you are not alone in this. For every one person that struggles to accept you, there are a thousand who will accept you with open arms.

Do you have a Pride tradition?

Almost every Pride I get all my friends together on my balcony in downtown Toronto and we celebrate with lots of drinks and snacks outside. (Lady Gaga is also a must).