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MEET OUR BOARD
Alphabetical order by first name
Bronwyn Meyer
They/Them
Board Member
Bronwyn is a wellness coach, esthetician, and small business owner with over 15 years of experience in the beauty and healing arts. As the founder of Bronwyn Meyer Brows & Body Sugar, a gender-neutral salon in San Francisco, they are committed to creating affirming spaces where queer and trans clients feel safe, seen, and cared for.
Bronwyn’s passion for healing and community care is deeply rooted in their own lived experience as a queer person who has survived high control religious environments and other systems that often lack inclusivity and nuance. Through personal and professional growth, they’ve become a grounded advocate for emotional wellness, embodiment, and the power of self-trust.
In addition to their work in esthetics, Bronwyn is a trained life coach who brings a decolonized and trauma-informed lens to everything they do. They are deeply committed to building resilient, connected queer communities and to holding space for others to feel seen and whole.
Now based in Oakland, Bronwyn loves exploring the city’s vibrant culture, creative communities, and natural beauty. Their connection to place is part of what fuels their dedication to local, grassroots healing work, social justice and community care.
As a board member of the LGBTQ Center, Bronwyn is deeply honored to serve the community they belong to. They are especially passionate about supporting mental health initiatives, facilitating peer support, and helping grow sustainable fundraising to expand the Center’s reach and impact.
Board Member
Bronwyn is a wellness coach, esthetician, and small business owner with over 15 years of experience in the beauty and healing arts. As the founder of Bronwyn Meyer Brows & Body Sugar, a gender-neutral salon in San Francisco, they are committed to creating affirming spaces where queer and trans clients feel safe, seen, and cared for.
Bronwyn’s passion for healing and community care is deeply rooted in their own lived experience as a queer person who has survived high control religious environments and other systems that often lack inclusivity and nuance. Through personal and professional growth, they’ve become a grounded advocate for emotional wellness, embodiment, and the power of self-trust.
In addition to their work in esthetics, Bronwyn is a trained life coach who brings a decolonized and trauma-informed lens to everything they do. They are deeply committed to building resilient, connected queer communities and to holding space for others to feel seen and whole.
Now based in Oakland, Bronwyn loves exploring the city’s vibrant culture, creative communities, and natural beauty. Their connection to place is part of what fuels their dedication to local, grassroots healing work, social justice and community care.
As a board member of the LGBTQ Center, Bronwyn is deeply honored to serve the community they belong to. They are especially passionate about supporting mental health initiatives, facilitating peer support, and helping grow sustainable fundraising to expand the Center’s reach and impact.
Dawn Edwards
She/Her
Board Vice President
Dawn (she/her) was born and raised in Los Angeles, but currently resides in Oakland, where she’s lived off and on for the past 30 years. She earned a BA in Political Science, a Master of Public Administration, completed three years of law school, and has earned a Master of Educational Leadership with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education from Mills College. Her professional focus has been centered on non-profit management, policy advocacy, early childhood education, restorative justice practices, project/program management, curriculum development, direct services and facilitation of a variety of workshops to the community.
Dawn is currently the Director of Programs at Lotus Bloom Family Resource Center, and her community leadership recently is serving the LGBTQ community as a Board member for the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center, and a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. She is also a graduate of the Rockwood Leadership Fellowship, and a past LeadStrong Women of Color Fellow.
Dawn is a mom, wife, a published author with two current book projects in the works, a blogger, and a trained dancer and gymnast who has performed with several companies throughout the Bay Area.
Board Vice President
Dawn (she/her) was born and raised in Los Angeles, but currently resides in Oakland, where she’s lived off and on for the past 30 years. She earned a BA in Political Science, a Master of Public Administration, completed three years of law school, and has earned a Master of Educational Leadership with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education from Mills College. Her professional focus has been centered on non-profit management, policy advocacy, early childhood education, restorative justice practices, project/program management, curriculum development, direct services and facilitation of a variety of workshops to the community.
Dawn is currently the Director of Programs at Lotus Bloom Family Resource Center, and her community leadership recently is serving the LGBTQ community as a Board member for the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center, and a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. She is also a graduate of the Rockwood Leadership Fellowship, and a past LeadStrong Women of Color Fellow.
Dawn is a mom, wife, a published author with two current book projects in the works, a blogger, and a trained dancer and gymnast who has performed with several companies throughout the Bay Area.
Jeff Myers
He/Him
Board President/Co-founder
Jeff is co-founder/board president of the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center and Chair of the newly formed Lakeshore LGBTQ Cultural District Committee established 2023 and recently voted as a board member for Oakland Pride. Born and raised in Charleston, SC, Jeff has been a resident of Oakland for over 20 years and is deeply dedicated to Oakland's LGBTQ community. He's employed as a Neurosurgical scrub nurse in the Operating Room at the University of California, San Francisco for over 20 years. He serves as a patient care advocate in the operating room. He is also a preceptor for new employees in a variety of surgical specialties and is one of the original scrub nurses on the UCSF surgical stereotactic movement disorder team that performs craniotomies for deep brain stimulation (DBS) and the treatment of Parkinson's Disease. His formal training also encompassed working in OB/GYN surgery, general surgery, orthopedic surgery, plastic surgery, microvascular surgery, and urologic surgery. He also Co-Chaired several committees in the OR; the Workplace Safety Council, Staff Enhancement Committee, Staff Mentorship Program to enhance the recognition of ethnic minorities and issues related to staff diversity in the workplace and the Social Advocacy Council.
Jeff served 11 years in the Navy/Marines Infantry Unit as a Certified Religious Program Specialist in the Chaplain's Officer. He was assigned to the U.S.S. Carl Vincent and was stationed in Japan for several years.
Jeff has been active in labor relations. He attended California Union Leadership School and served as a member of the San Francisco Labor Council and Vice President of Patient Care Technical (AFSCME 3299) for 6 years.
Jeff has been active as a community volunteer. He served as a member of the Bay Area Big Brother/Big Sister Association. He was the volunteer coordinator for Oakland Pride, participated in Pridefest, served as Table Captain for San Francisco HRC and a member of SF Steering Committee and one of the original members of the Bayard Rustin LGBTQ Coalition supporting People of Color in the San Francisco Bay Area and a member of Lambda Legal.
Jeff served 11 years in the Navy as a Certified Religious Program Specialist in the Chaplain’s Office assigned to the Marine Corps. He was assigned to the U.S.S. Carl Vincent, stationed in Japan, and was privileged to interact with diverse populations during his assignments. He holds certifications as both a Surgical Technologist and a Nursing Assistant.
Jeff has been active in labor relations. He attended California Union Leadership School, and served as a member of the San Francisco Labor Council and Vice President of Patient Care Technical (AFSCME 3299) for 8 years. He is currently a member of Labor Notes, an international labor activist organization.
Jeff has been active as a community volunteer. He served as a member of the Bay Area Big Brother/Big Sister Association and volunteered for the LGBTQ community in multiple capacities. He was the volunteer coordinator for Oakland Pride, served as a co-chair of community outreach, Pride Event Volunteer Coordinator, and he also helped to organize the Oakland Pride contingent for the SF Pride Parade working with the Office of the Oakland Mayor. He served as a co-chair of table captains for the San Francisco HRC 2006 Annual Fundraising Dinner and served on the San Francisco HRC Steering Committee when he helped to organize the HRC contingent for the SF Pride Parade. He is a member of the Bayard Rustin LGBTQ Coalition supporting People of Color in the San Francisco Bay Area and was a member of Lambda Legal.
Board President/Co-founder
Jeff is co-founder/board president of the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center and Chair of the newly formed Lakeshore LGBTQ Cultural District Committee established 2023 and recently voted as a board member for Oakland Pride. Born and raised in Charleston, SC, Jeff has been a resident of Oakland for over 20 years and is deeply dedicated to Oakland's LGBTQ community. He's employed as a Neurosurgical scrub nurse in the Operating Room at the University of California, San Francisco for over 20 years. He serves as a patient care advocate in the operating room. He is also a preceptor for new employees in a variety of surgical specialties and is one of the original scrub nurses on the UCSF surgical stereotactic movement disorder team that performs craniotomies for deep brain stimulation (DBS) and the treatment of Parkinson's Disease. His formal training also encompassed working in OB/GYN surgery, general surgery, orthopedic surgery, plastic surgery, microvascular surgery, and urologic surgery. He also Co-Chaired several committees in the OR; the Workplace Safety Council, Staff Enhancement Committee, Staff Mentorship Program to enhance the recognition of ethnic minorities and issues related to staff diversity in the workplace and the Social Advocacy Council.
Jeff served 11 years in the Navy/Marines Infantry Unit as a Certified Religious Program Specialist in the Chaplain's Officer. He was assigned to the U.S.S. Carl Vincent and was stationed in Japan for several years.
Jeff has been active in labor relations. He attended California Union Leadership School and served as a member of the San Francisco Labor Council and Vice President of Patient Care Technical (AFSCME 3299) for 6 years.
Jeff has been active as a community volunteer. He served as a member of the Bay Area Big Brother/Big Sister Association. He was the volunteer coordinator for Oakland Pride, participated in Pridefest, served as Table Captain for San Francisco HRC and a member of SF Steering Committee and one of the original members of the Bayard Rustin LGBTQ Coalition supporting People of Color in the San Francisco Bay Area and a member of Lambda Legal.
Jeff served 11 years in the Navy as a Certified Religious Program Specialist in the Chaplain’s Office assigned to the Marine Corps. He was assigned to the U.S.S. Carl Vincent, stationed in Japan, and was privileged to interact with diverse populations during his assignments. He holds certifications as both a Surgical Technologist and a Nursing Assistant.
Jeff has been active in labor relations. He attended California Union Leadership School, and served as a member of the San Francisco Labor Council and Vice President of Patient Care Technical (AFSCME 3299) for 8 years. He is currently a member of Labor Notes, an international labor activist organization.
Jeff has been active as a community volunteer. He served as a member of the Bay Area Big Brother/Big Sister Association and volunteered for the LGBTQ community in multiple capacities. He was the volunteer coordinator for Oakland Pride, served as a co-chair of community outreach, Pride Event Volunteer Coordinator, and he also helped to organize the Oakland Pride contingent for the SF Pride Parade working with the Office of the Oakland Mayor. He served as a co-chair of table captains for the San Francisco HRC 2006 Annual Fundraising Dinner and served on the San Francisco HRC Steering Committee when he helped to organize the HRC contingent for the SF Pride Parade. He is a member of the Bayard Rustin LGBTQ Coalition supporting People of Color in the San Francisco Bay Area and was a member of Lambda Legal.
Kunal Basu-Dutta
He/Him
Board Member
Kunal moved to West Oakland in 2018 after having returned from living abroad in order to work in politics. Before landing in the Bay, Kunal was raised mostly in Georgia, completed his BA at the University of Chicago, and worked in various digital roles for years. In the Bay Area, he's worked on flipping the House with Rep. Eric Swalwell, two presidential campaigns, and an environmental-focused PAC. His focus has always been in messaging stories to organize community action and bring folks together.
In 2020, Kunal co-founded Modern Bay Strategies — a Black, Brown, and Queer-led marketing agency specializing in digital for political issues, non-profits, and do-good businesses. This came from realizing that our voices need to drive marketing, not be an afterthought. Modern Bay has helped elect BIPOC and LGBTQ representatives in Oakland and across the country in historic wins while also championing state initiatives addressing health, equity, and accountability.
In his spare time, Kunal tries to visit all of the restaurants, bars, food trucks, and pop-ups that Oakland and the Bay have to offer. Those trips may be shared soon...stay tuned!
Board Member
Kunal moved to West Oakland in 2018 after having returned from living abroad in order to work in politics. Before landing in the Bay, Kunal was raised mostly in Georgia, completed his BA at the University of Chicago, and worked in various digital roles for years. In the Bay Area, he's worked on flipping the House with Rep. Eric Swalwell, two presidential campaigns, and an environmental-focused PAC. His focus has always been in messaging stories to organize community action and bring folks together.
In 2020, Kunal co-founded Modern Bay Strategies — a Black, Brown, and Queer-led marketing agency specializing in digital for political issues, non-profits, and do-good businesses. This came from realizing that our voices need to drive marketing, not be an afterthought. Modern Bay has helped elect BIPOC and LGBTQ representatives in Oakland and across the country in historic wins while also championing state initiatives addressing health, equity, and accountability.
In his spare time, Kunal tries to visit all of the restaurants, bars, food trucks, and pop-ups that Oakland and the Bay have to offer. Those trips may be shared soon...stay tuned!
Roy Tongilava
He/Him
Board Member
Roy Tongilava proudly identifies as a queer, first-generation Pacific Islander, a community activist, and an equity-driven policy advocate. Inspired by his Pasifika community's resilience, he became the first in his family to pursue higher education, earning a BA in Public Policy from UC Riverside and a Graduate Certificate in Applied Policy and Government from California State University-Sacramento. Roy was particularly compelled by the intersection of public policy and grassroots advocacy to better understand hegemonic systems of oppression, governance, and domestic policy to provide ways to engage marginalized voices in policymaking and equity-oriented systems change—this passion led him to work with local policy, federal health policy, and state policy for numerous state legislators based in California's State Capitol.
Throughout his career, Roy has been a strong advocate for marginalized groups, especially BIPOC LGBTQ folx. He recognizes the complexities of navigating intersecting identities and is dedicated to addressing the resulting challenges through an inclusive, multifaceted approach. Currently, he works as a Policy Analyst at The Education Trust—West, where he supports state-level policy advocacy efforts ensuring low-income students of color and multilingual learners can reach their highest potential in the state’s public education system. He also serves as Board President of the South Pacific Islander Organization, a nonprofit whose mission is to democratize access to higher education for Pasifika and marginalized communities of color. Equity remains the cornerstone of Roy's work and advocacy, and he looks forward to serving the community and advancing the Center’s mission.
University in San Jose, CA in 2017. Sage’s passions are rooted in healing the traumas in Black bodies, working to stop anti Black racism and the overall healing, growth and acceptance of BIPOC LGBTQ,with special interest in BIPOC transgender men and women. . Sage has developed and participated in committees designed towards BIPOC excellence, healing and safety of Black bodies and currently leads organizational talks on anti-Black racism. Sage is taking steps towards developing therapies, studies and written works dedicated to the Black Trans men.
Sage works in his day job as an intensive case manager at University of California, San Francisco with clients at the crossroads of severe mental health, substance use, homelessness and on probation, he teaches various classes at John F. Kennedy University’s graduate psychology program and has a private practice. On his down time, he does a variety of outdoor activities, including weightlifting and kayaking, and spends time with his partner.
Board Member
Roy Tongilava proudly identifies as a queer, first-generation Pacific Islander, a community activist, and an equity-driven policy advocate. Inspired by his Pasifika community's resilience, he became the first in his family to pursue higher education, earning a BA in Public Policy from UC Riverside and a Graduate Certificate in Applied Policy and Government from California State University-Sacramento. Roy was particularly compelled by the intersection of public policy and grassroots advocacy to better understand hegemonic systems of oppression, governance, and domestic policy to provide ways to engage marginalized voices in policymaking and equity-oriented systems change—this passion led him to work with local policy, federal health policy, and state policy for numerous state legislators based in California's State Capitol.
Throughout his career, Roy has been a strong advocate for marginalized groups, especially BIPOC LGBTQ folx. He recognizes the complexities of navigating intersecting identities and is dedicated to addressing the resulting challenges through an inclusive, multifaceted approach. Currently, he works as a Policy Analyst at The Education Trust—West, where he supports state-level policy advocacy efforts ensuring low-income students of color and multilingual learners can reach their highest potential in the state’s public education system. He also serves as Board President of the South Pacific Islander Organization, a nonprofit whose mission is to democratize access to higher education for Pasifika and marginalized communities of color. Equity remains the cornerstone of Roy's work and advocacy, and he looks forward to serving the community and advancing the Center’s mission.
University in San Jose, CA in 2017. Sage’s passions are rooted in healing the traumas in Black bodies, working to stop anti Black racism and the overall healing, growth and acceptance of BIPOC LGBTQ,with special interest in BIPOC transgender men and women. . Sage has developed and participated in committees designed towards BIPOC excellence, healing and safety of Black bodies and currently leads organizational talks on anti-Black racism. Sage is taking steps towards developing therapies, studies and written works dedicated to the Black Trans men.
Sage works in his day job as an intensive case manager at University of California, San Francisco with clients at the crossroads of severe mental health, substance use, homelessness and on probation, he teaches various classes at John F. Kennedy University’s graduate psychology program and has a private practice. On his down time, he does a variety of outdoor activities, including weightlifting and kayaking, and spends time with his partner.
Sergio Ardila
He/They
Board Member
Sergio Ardila brings lived experience, heart, and deep public service expertise to the Board of the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center. Originally from Colombia, Sergio moved to the U.S. in 2013 at age 23 after a difficult family coming out experience and has called the Bay Area home since 2017.
Sergio currently serves as a Government and Community Relations Representative at BART, focusing on outreach and stakeholder engagement in South Alameda County. Their previous work in both federal and local government—including for former Congresswoman (now Oakland Mayor) Barbara Lee and Alameda County Supervisor Lena Tam—has centered on constituent services, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and inclusive community engagement. They are currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration at the University of San Francisco.
In 2021, Sergio founded Ardila Presents, a small business focused on producing LGBTQ+ cultural events and parties around the Bay Area. That work connected them with queer-owned businesses, nonprofit partners, and creative communities across the region. Later that year, Sergio served as the coordinator for Pridefest Oakland, helping to elevate local voices and talent. While the work under their own venture was rewarding, it also brought Sergio into environments where substance use was prevalent, eventually surfacing personal struggles. It was through the services of the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center in 2022 that Sergio found the support they needed to get clean and sober. They have been in recovery ever since and continue to actively participate in the Center’s recovery services.
Sergio is open about their recovery journey in hopes of inspiring others in need in our community. Today, they proudly serve on the Center’s Board of Directors and are a member of the Lakeshore LGBTQ Cultural District Committee. Their commitment to equity, visibility, and community resilience drives Sergio’s work as an advocate and organizer.
Outside of work, Sergio enjoys networking, exploring local trails, supporting queer-owned businesses, discovering new coffee shops and restaurants, and attending live music events.
In 2021, Sergio founded Ardila Presents, a small business focused on producing LGBTQ+ cultural events and parties around the Bay Area. That work connected them with queer-owned businesses, nonprofit partners, and creative communities across the region. Later that year, Sergio served as the coordinator for Pridefest Oakland, helping to elevate local voices and talent. While this work was rewarding, it also brought them into environments where substance use was prevalent, eventually surfacing personal struggles. It was through the services of the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center that Sergio found the support they needed to get clean and sober. They have been in recovery ever since and continue to actively participate in the Center’s recovery services.
Sergio is open about their recovery journey in hopes of inspiring others in need in our community. Today, they proudly serve on the Center’s Board of Directors and are a member of the Lakeshore LGBTQ Cultural District Committee. Their commitment to equity, visibility, and community resilience drives Sergio’s work as an advocate and organizer.
Outside of work, Sergio enjoys networking, exploring local trails, supporting queer-owned businesses, discovering new coffee shops and restaurants, and attending live music events.
Board Member
Sergio Ardila brings lived experience, heart, and deep public service expertise to the Board of the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center. Originally from Colombia, Sergio moved to the U.S. in 2013 at age 23 after a difficult family coming out experience and has called the Bay Area home since 2017.
Sergio currently serves as a Government and Community Relations Representative at BART, focusing on outreach and stakeholder engagement in South Alameda County. Their previous work in both federal and local government—including for former Congresswoman (now Oakland Mayor) Barbara Lee and Alameda County Supervisor Lena Tam—has centered on constituent services, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and inclusive community engagement. They are currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration at the University of San Francisco.
In 2021, Sergio founded Ardila Presents, a small business focused on producing LGBTQ+ cultural events and parties around the Bay Area. That work connected them with queer-owned businesses, nonprofit partners, and creative communities across the region. Later that year, Sergio served as the coordinator for Pridefest Oakland, helping to elevate local voices and talent. While the work under their own venture was rewarding, it also brought Sergio into environments where substance use was prevalent, eventually surfacing personal struggles. It was through the services of the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center in 2022 that Sergio found the support they needed to get clean and sober. They have been in recovery ever since and continue to actively participate in the Center’s recovery services.
Sergio is open about their recovery journey in hopes of inspiring others in need in our community. Today, they proudly serve on the Center’s Board of Directors and are a member of the Lakeshore LGBTQ Cultural District Committee. Their commitment to equity, visibility, and community resilience drives Sergio’s work as an advocate and organizer.
Outside of work, Sergio enjoys networking, exploring local trails, supporting queer-owned businesses, discovering new coffee shops and restaurants, and attending live music events.
In 2021, Sergio founded Ardila Presents, a small business focused on producing LGBTQ+ cultural events and parties around the Bay Area. That work connected them with queer-owned businesses, nonprofit partners, and creative communities across the region. Later that year, Sergio served as the coordinator for Pridefest Oakland, helping to elevate local voices and talent. While this work was rewarding, it also brought them into environments where substance use was prevalent, eventually surfacing personal struggles. It was through the services of the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center that Sergio found the support they needed to get clean and sober. They have been in recovery ever since and continue to actively participate in the Center’s recovery services.
Sergio is open about their recovery journey in hopes of inspiring others in need in our community. Today, they proudly serve on the Center’s Board of Directors and are a member of the Lakeshore LGBTQ Cultural District Committee. Their commitment to equity, visibility, and community resilience drives Sergio’s work as an advocate and organizer.
Outside of work, Sergio enjoys networking, exploring local trails, supporting queer-owned businesses, discovering new coffee shops and restaurants, and attending live music events.
Shemicka Johnson
She/Her
Board Member
Shemicka Johnson, also known as Meeka Starr, is a passionate leader in the LGBTQ+
community, combining her love for fashion with her dedication to advocacy and service. Born in
Queens, NY, and raised in Berkeley, CA, Shemicka brings a diverse background and a wealth of
experience to her work. As a committee member of the Lakeshore LGBTQ Cultural District, she
leverages her expertise as a fashion stylist, designer, runway show coordinator, and event
planner to organize successful community events. These events, including drag and fashion
shows, have raised vital funds for LGBTQ+ initiatives, showcasing her ability to merge creativity
with community engagement.
In addition to her work with the Lakeshore LGBTQ Cultural District, Shemicka was crowned
Princess of Reign 33 of The Royal Grand Ducal Council of Alameda/Contra Costa Counties
Inc., where she helps organize fundraisers that support various nonprofit organizations. Through
this role, she connects resources to causes in need, furthering her commitment to
community-driven advocacy. She also serves as an ambassador for Black Lesbian Link-Up,
amplifying the voices of Black lesbians and ensuring their experiences are represented within
the more extensive LGBTQ+ dialogue.
Shemicka’s background in fashion is extensive. Holding a degree in Apparel Design and
Merchandising, she has honed her styling, runway coordination, and brand development skills.
As a runway show coordinator, she ensures each event is a captivating experience, leaving a
lasting impression on the audience. Her experience in fashion design helps individuals and
brands express their unique identities through style.
Currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration, Shemicka also serves as a senator for
the Associated Students of College of Alameda, where she advocates for policies that support
LGBTQ+ students and foster inclusivity on campus. Through her multifaceted roles, she
continues to dedicate herself to building a more unified, inclusive LGBTQ+ community.
Board Member
Shemicka Johnson, also known as Meeka Starr, is a passionate leader in the LGBTQ+
community, combining her love for fashion with her dedication to advocacy and service. Born in
Queens, NY, and raised in Berkeley, CA, Shemicka brings a diverse background and a wealth of
experience to her work. As a committee member of the Lakeshore LGBTQ Cultural District, she
leverages her expertise as a fashion stylist, designer, runway show coordinator, and event
planner to organize successful community events. These events, including drag and fashion
shows, have raised vital funds for LGBTQ+ initiatives, showcasing her ability to merge creativity
with community engagement.
In addition to her work with the Lakeshore LGBTQ Cultural District, Shemicka was crowned
Princess of Reign 33 of The Royal Grand Ducal Council of Alameda/Contra Costa Counties
Inc., where she helps organize fundraisers that support various nonprofit organizations. Through
this role, she connects resources to causes in need, furthering her commitment to
community-driven advocacy. She also serves as an ambassador for Black Lesbian Link-Up,
amplifying the voices of Black lesbians and ensuring their experiences are represented within
the more extensive LGBTQ+ dialogue.
Shemicka’s background in fashion is extensive. Holding a degree in Apparel Design and
Merchandising, she has honed her styling, runway coordination, and brand development skills.
As a runway show coordinator, she ensures each event is a captivating experience, leaving a
lasting impression on the audience. Her experience in fashion design helps individuals and
brands express their unique identities through style.
Currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration, Shemicka also serves as a senator for
the Associated Students of College of Alameda, where she advocates for policies that support
LGBTQ+ students and foster inclusivity on campus. Through her multifaceted roles, she
continues to dedicate herself to building a more unified, inclusive LGBTQ+ community.
Justin Harris
He/Him
Board Member
When Justin Harris moved to Oakland in 2015, there was no LGBTQ+ center in the city. That absence of visible support and community space stayed with him. One day, he saw a Pride flag hanging in the window of the Center’s building and dreamed of giving back. That kind of visibility means the world, especially for those who need support and belonging.
Justin brings a background in technology, storytelling, and social impact. He scaled a tech YouTube channel to more than 600,000 subscribers and built visionaryPass, a platform dedicated to helping creators post consistently and build sustainable careers. His work has always been about expanding access, giving people the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they might not otherwise have.
Today, Justin is proud to serve on the Board of Directors at the Oakland LGBTQ Center. He joined during a time of financial uncertainty and government cuts, determined to use his skills in technology and governance to modernize the organization and extend its reach. For him, technology is not just about innovation. It’s about amplifying resources, extending care, and ensuring people can find support when they need it most.
As a Black queer person in an open relationship, Justin understands the importance of representation and safe spaces. His lived experience as demisexual and his belief that everyone deserves to be seen deeply shape his vision for the Center. He is committed to making sure all community members, whether new to Oakland or lifelong residents, feel safe, affirmed, and supported.
Beyond the Center, Justin works with Dignifi, a San Francisco-based social impact startup, where he helps formerly incarcerated people re-enter society with technology skills. No matter the project, his goal is the same: to combine empathy, creativity, and technology to create opportunities for others.
For Justin, the future of the Oakland LGBTQ Center is one where resources are amplified, safe spaces are protected, and future generations grow up knowing that this community will have their back from day one.
Board Member
When Justin Harris moved to Oakland in 2015, there was no LGBTQ+ center in the city. That absence of visible support and community space stayed with him. One day, he saw a Pride flag hanging in the window of the Center’s building and dreamed of giving back. That kind of visibility means the world, especially for those who need support and belonging.
Justin brings a background in technology, storytelling, and social impact. He scaled a tech YouTube channel to more than 600,000 subscribers and built visionaryPass, a platform dedicated to helping creators post consistently and build sustainable careers. His work has always been about expanding access, giving people the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they might not otherwise have.
Today, Justin is proud to serve on the Board of Directors at the Oakland LGBTQ Center. He joined during a time of financial uncertainty and government cuts, determined to use his skills in technology and governance to modernize the organization and extend its reach. For him, technology is not just about innovation. It’s about amplifying resources, extending care, and ensuring people can find support when they need it most.
As a Black queer person in an open relationship, Justin understands the importance of representation and safe spaces. His lived experience as demisexual and his belief that everyone deserves to be seen deeply shape his vision for the Center. He is committed to making sure all community members, whether new to Oakland or lifelong residents, feel safe, affirmed, and supported.
Beyond the Center, Justin works with Dignifi, a San Francisco-based social impact startup, where he helps formerly incarcerated people re-enter society with technology skills. No matter the project, his goal is the same: to combine empathy, creativity, and technology to create opportunities for others.
For Justin, the future of the Oakland LGBTQ Center is one where resources are amplified, safe spaces are protected, and future generations grow up knowing that this community will have their back from day one.
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