Transcendence 2017 – Meet the Honorees!
This September marks the 6th annual Transcendence – a celebration for transgender and non-binary communities, friends and allies, honoring leaders in TGNC health and wellness while raising funds for the Transgender Health Program at Callen-Lorde. Started in 2012 as an intimate gathering honoring the inimitable Kate Bornstein, Transcendence has grown into one of the most anticipated TGNC community events in New York. Part fundraiser, part fête, Transcendence is a one of a kind event by and for trans and non-binary communities.
This year, we’re thrilled to honor world renowned DJ Lina alongside writer, speaker and media personality Tyler Ford for their fierce leadership and tenacious advocacy for LGBTQ communities.
Lina Bradford (DJ Lina) grew up in New York City, across the street from famed Carnegie Hall on the Upper West Side. Her career in entertainment began at an early age as a dancer. She studied modern ballet, tap and jazz for 11 years and performed in several companies throughout New York. Those same moves she learned in rehearsals became a part of her signature style when she began her DJ career by performing throughout the gritty East Village scene. She travels through Europe, appearing in Sardinia, St Tropez and Paris. Accolades soon came rolling in, including DJ of the year and Lifetime Achievement awards at the Glammys and Sage Innovator. DJ Lina is often seen hosting the biggest private parties from NYC to Europe. Even with all her accomplishments, she feels as if she is just beginning to hit her stride. “I’ve never felt more sexy and solidified in my life”, she says. “This is by far the most beautiful spot I’ve been in.”
Tyler Ford is an agender writer, speaker, performer, and media personality whose creative and critical writing on queer and trans identity inspires, comforts, and challenges a diverse spectrum of audiences. Crowned one of Dazed’s 100 visionary talents shaping youth culture in 2016, and writing for publications including the Guardian, Poetry Magazine, Rookie, V Magazine, and MTV; Tyler’s sphere of influence is wide, reaching hundreds of thousands of people and helping LGBTQ+ folks feel more equipped to express themselves with confidence. From SXSW to Columbia University to Stadtkuratorin Hamburg, Tyler’s speaking engagements and performances are known to galvanize and educate. Recently honored at the Village Voice Pride Awards as the “young person who best represents the future of LGBTQ+ advancement,” the 26-year-old uses their unstoppable voice, passion, and heart to uplift and advocate for queer and trans individuals worldwide.
Join us on September 28th as we honor these two incredible icons! Tickets are just $35, sponsorships start at just $75 and come with an array of benefits. Visit callen-lorde.org/transcendence for tickets and more information.