Lion Burney (they/them) illustrates two of the key qualities of being a leader through their work: engagement and empowerment. They feel a profound sense of liberation when working with and speaking to youth from the city, fueling them to not give up on themselves, their peers and their futures. Despite the challenges they have encountered, they’ve strived to create inclusive spaces where queer individuals feel accepted and valued.
From organizing support groups to hosting educational workshops, they’ve worked tirelessly to foster understanding and create safe spaces for those to feel wanted. By amplifying marginalized voices and challenging discrimination, Lion has helped to create a more inclusive environment for all members of their community. Through Lion’s efforts, they have witnessed firsthand the positive impact of their work on the lives of those in their community. Whether it’s providing a listening ear to a struggling peer or advocating for policy changes that promote equality, they have seen how small acts of kindness and activism can spark meaningful change. Lion will be attending University of the District of Columbia in the fall of 2024, pursuing a degree in Art.
“Supporting queer and trans youth leaders is a vital role in the community for representation, empowerment, and advocacy. They inspire others and challenge stereotypes. By supporting our leaders, we build a more inclusive society/community and push for diverse leadership for the future, representation goes a long way more than a lot of people think.”
