On March 4, 2023, an extraordinary event took place, uniting two organizations with a shared passion for uplifting marginalized youth. Believe in Me, dedicated to providing support and opportunities to marginalized children, joined forces with Stiller Aesthetics, a pioneering medical center specializing in gender-affirming healthcare. Together, they hosted the Believe in Me Drag Beauty Pageant, a glamorous fundraiser to combat the alarming rates of LGBTQ youth suicide and promote self-confidence. This blog delves into the incredible partnership between Believe in Me and Stiller Aesthetics, exploring the impact of gender-affirming health care in preventing suicide within the LGBTQ community.
Believe in Me’s Vision and Mission
Believe in Me envisions a world where every child can develop the self-confidence they need to succeed. With the generosity of their supporters, the foundation funds children’s charities that offer marginalized kids a safe place, a loving family, a sense of community, and opportunities to learn and grow. They are committed to diversity and inclusion, striving to create a just and equitable community where all individuals can achieve their potential.
Marginalized Kids and Believe in Me’s Support
Believe in Me aims to bridge the gap for marginalized kids who face social exclusion and lack equal access to resources. The foundation supports various groups, including LGBTQ youth, who are four times more likely to attempt suicide compared to their heterosexual peers. By providing a safe environment, nurturing families, and growth opportunities, Believe in Me endeavors to instill self-confidence and prevent such tragic outcomes.
“I am committed to empowering every child with the self-confidence they need to succeed. Together, with unwavering support and compassion, we can create a world where all young individuals feel loved, accepted, and uplifted.” – Julie Wukelic, CEO of Believe in Me
The 2023 Believe in Me Drag Beauty Pageant: Glitz, Glam, & Empowerment
The Believe in Me Drag Beauty Pageant held on March 4, 2023, at the Highball Lounge inside Northern Quest Casino, was a dazzling display of self-expression and empowerment. The event showcased the incredible talents of drag performers while raising awareness and funds for LGBTQ youth suicide prevention.
Unforgettable Performances and Empowering Stories
The pageant featured a star-studded cast of performers who enthralled the audience with their charisma and unique artistry. Soroya Courvoisier, Aquasha DeLusty, Arianna D. Spanic, and others captivated the crowd with mesmerizing lip-sync performances and dance routines. Additionally, heartfelt testimonial videos shared the transformative journeys of LGBTQ individuals, emphasizing the need for support and acceptance.
The Impact of the Pageant: Spreading Hope and Empowerment
Thanks to the support of attendees, volunteers, sponsors, and judges, the event raised nearly $40,000 to combat LGBTQ youth suicide rates. By supporting children’s charities and empowering marginalized youth, the pageant contributed to preventing tragedies and creating a brighter future for LGBTQ individuals.
The Role of Stiller Aesthetics in the Partnership
Stiller Aesthetics, a leading medical center with over 20 years of surgical experience, played a crucial role in this partnership. Their vision is to enhance the health and well-being of their patients and be a leader in transgender healthcare. They offer a range of gender-affirming procedures, including body feminization, facial feminization, transfeminine top surgery, and more, providing crucial support to individuals in their journey towards self-acceptance.
The Importance of Gender-Affirming Health Care in Preventing Suicide
Gender-affirming health care is essential in preventing suicide among the LGBTQ community. Transgender individuals, in particular, face higher rates of suicide attempts due to the struggles associated with not feeling comfortable in their own bodies. By offering gender-affirming procedures, medical professionals like those at Stiller Aesthetics help individuals align their physical appearance with their gender identity, promoting mental well-being and self-confidence.
Joining the Movement: Empowering LGBTQ Youth Beyond the Pageant
We encourage you to continue supporting the cause by volunteering time and skills to organizations supporting marginalized youth. Donations to organizations like Believe in Me can help create safe environments and strong communities for LGBTQ youth. Spreading awareness and understanding through social media and personal experiences is also vital in fostering an inclusive and accepting world.
The partnership between Believe in Me and Stiller Aesthetics exemplifies the power of collaboration in uplifting marginalized youth and promoting self-confidence. The Believe in Me Drag Beauty Pageant not only brought glitz and glamour to the stage but also spread hope and empowerment to LGBTQ individuals. By providing gender-affirming health care, we can prevent suicide and create a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone. Together, we can build a world where every young person can believe in themselves and achieve their full potential.
