In 2020, GLAAD introduced its inaugural 20 Under 20 list in partnership with Teen Vogue. This annual initiative highlights 20 young LGBTQ leaders who are making significant contributions across various sectors, including the arts, politics, academia, and more.
The second annual 20 Under 20 list, released in June 2021, showcases a vibrant array of young activists, such as Amiri Nash, Andrea Alejandra Gonzales, Ashton Mota, Austin Houck, Cyn Gómez, Darid Prom, Gia Parr, JoJo Siwa, Max Prestigiacomo, Molly Pinta, Mxmtoon, Onyx (E. Smith), Soleil Wheeler, also known as Ewok, Ve’ondre Mitchell, Yasmin Finney and more.
Since the release of the list three years ago, the members of the 2021 class have achieved remarkable success through the platforms they have established. Discover some of the innovative projects that GLAAD’s 20 Under 20 class of 2021 is currently pursuing!
Molly Pinta
Molly Pinta was originally honored for founding The Pinta Pride Project, which organizes a family-friendly Pride parade each June in Aurora, Illinois.
Since then, she’s been featured in a Rebel Girl book and has begun her journey as a Veterinary Scholar at the University of Missouri, working toward her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, set to graduate in 2031.
“Attending that first Pride event opened a door for me to connect my identity with community advocacy,” Pinta tells GLAAD. Up next, Molly plans to continue expanding The Pinta Pride Project and bring inclusivity to new spaces.
Keep up with Molly @mollypinta414
Stella Keating
Stella Keating first made headlines when she became the first transgender teen to testify before the U.S. Senate in support of the Equality Act. Since then, she’s used her platform for transgender and nonbinary advocacy, including speaking engagements like the one at her high school on the power of storytelling.
Currently majoring in Political Science, Stella plans to attend law school to further her mission of advancing equality. “Advocacy starts with your own story,” she says. Up next, Stella aims to make change through legal reform.
Keep up with Stella @stellskeats570
Kaylyn Ahn
Kaylyn Ahn was recognized for her leadership in social justice, advocacy, and community service. She spearheaded efforts to close a legal loophole in sexual assault law, resulting in new statewide police training and the prosecution of over 8,000 cases.
Recently elected to the National Organization for Victim Assistance Board, she’s the youngest to serve in this role and oversees over $4 million in funding.
“Even one voice can help shift the justice system,” she says. Up next, Kaylyn is committed to furthering victim advocacy efforts nationwide.
Trevor Wilkinson
Trevor Wilkinson gained recognition for challenging his high school’s dress code policy when he was suspended for wearing nail polish. His Change.org petition garnered widespread attention, pushing for more inclusive dress codes. Since then, Trevor has interned with Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia and contributed to the ACLU’s annual report on dress code equity in Texas schools. Wilkinson was also the inaugural “Trailblazer Award” from Black Tie Dinner.
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“Being yourself shouldn’t come with consequences,” he says. Trevor continues to dedicate himself to LGBTQ advocacy, focusing on drag, book bans, and decriminalization initiatives across Texas.
Keep up with Trevor @trevv_wilkinson
Full profiles of the 20 Under 20 honorees can be found at TeenVogue.com.
Learn more about the program here and read the 2024 list here.