The Daniel Trujillo Upstart Change-Maker Award is dedicated to recognizing the extraordinary impact that young people can have on their communities. Named after Daniel Trujillo, a passionate 17-year-old advocate from Tucson, Arizona, this award celebrates youth who are courageously stepping up to make a difference. Daniel, who has been fighting for the rights of trans kids since the age of 9, knows firsthand the importance of using his voice to highlight that trans kids are not just a political debate but whole human beings deserving of love, respect, and acceptance. His recent work organizing the national TransProm event in Washington, DC, exemplifies his commitment to his community and the power of youth activism.
We are proud to present the first Daniel Trujillo Upstart Change-Maker Award to Mya Figueroa, a 15-year-old with a passion for performing arts and a strong commitment to advocating for transgender rights. Mya is a singer, dancer, and actress who loves all things theater and musicals. Her advocacy work began when she realized the power of educating others about transgender issues, particularly when she spoke to an Arizona Senator about the harmful effects of legislation targeting trans youth and was instrumental in the failure of this hateful legislation. Mya’s courage and dedication have been recognized in several publications, including Mission Magazine and Vogue, where she has used her platform to raise awareness and promote understanding.
Mya’s hope is that one day transgender individuals will be treated with the respect and dignity they deserve, and she believes that this can be achieved through education and visibility. Her efforts to make a difference, whether through her activism or her artistry, make her an inspiring role model and a deserving recipient of the Daniel Trujillo Upstart Change-Maker Award.
Join us in celebrating at the 2024 Queer for Good. Purchase tickets here.