ABOUT US

The Torchbearers Awards are more than recognition—they are a continuation of legacy. They honor the quiet architects of progress in our community: those who organize, advocate, build, and protect, often without fanfare but always with purpose. Rooted in a belief in intentional recognition, this honor names those who carry our movements forward—those who make room for others, who remind us that change is both generational and generative. In a time marked by uncertainty and challenge, these leaders push forward with courage, clarity, and an unwavering commitment to expanding opportunity and equity.

This year’s honorees reflect the full breadth of our community, spanning generations, backgrounds, identities, and industries. From Legends, with decades of leadership and having created pathways for others, to Illuminators, who are lighting new paths with creativity and innovation, each Torchbearer represents the power of intergenerational leadership and the strength found in our diversity. They are organizers, advocates, artists, policy leaders, healers, and changemakers whose lived experiences shape a shared vision for equity and liberation.

This award is our love letter to queer and trans women and nonbinary people who carry the flame when it would be easier to let it dim. To those who consistently show up, who use their voice and visibility and stand firm, often without recognition, so that others may live more freely and fully. The Torchbearers Awards celebrates not just what has been done, but the enduring spirit, responsibility, and collective care that ensure the work continues, and that the flame is always passed forward.

MEET OUR ADVISORY BOARD & CO-CREATORS

Heidi Ellis (she/her)

Co-Creator

Heidi Ellis is a policy strategist and advocate with experience across state and federal government, including the Obama Administration, whose work focuses on coalition-building, equity, and advancing LGBTQIA+ and racial justice through systems change.

Heidi helps shape the Torchbearers Awards with a deep understanding of how policy, power, and community intersect.

Shannon Alston (she/her)

Co-Creator

Shannon Alston is a workplace culture and talent strategy leader whose work centers inclusion, leadership development, and building environments where people and institutions can grow with intention and care.

Shannon brings insight into how leadership is cultivated, supported, and sustained over time.

June Crenshaw (she/her)

Co-Creator

For nearly a decade, June led the Wanda Alston Foundation, expanding housing and supportive services for LGBTQIA+ youth experiencing homelessness and helping reshape how Washington, D.C. approaches their care and safety. In her current role with Capital Pride Alliance, June advances this work at a broader scale by strengthening community infrastructure, refining organizational policies, and expanding inclusive community representation.

Aditi Hardikar (she/her)

Advisory Board

Aditi Hardikar has led at the highest levels of public service, including the White House Office of Public Engagement and U.S. Treasury leadership, bringing a sharp lens on governance, coalition-building, and how communities are represented in policy.

Jasmine Wilson-Bryant (she/her)

Advisory Board

Jasmine Wilson-Bryant is a licensed clinician and care strategist whose work centers affirming practice, trauma-informed care, intergenerational community care, and strategic clarity for mission-led initiatives.

Stephen Rutgers (he/his)

Advisory Board

Stephen Rutgers is the owner of Crush Dance Bar, a multi-level inclusive nightlife space on 14th Street, bringing insight into sustaining long-standing gathering places.

Lesley Bryant (she/her)

Advisory Board

Lesley Bryant, the founder of Lady Clipper Barber Shop on the historic U Street Corridor, brings leadership from building an inclusive community space that prioritizes care and affirmation for clients.

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