Changing the World
Michelle McCarthy
10/2/2012
http://www.frontiersla.com/Features/Exclusive-Interviews/story.aspx?ID=1784290Now in its fifth year, the Angels of Change Calendar Release and Runway Show, which celebrates and empowers transgender youth, will take place Saturday, Oct. 27 at Arena Nightclub. Angels of Change benefits the Division of Adolescent Medicine of Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Transgender Services. Beginning with a VIP Reception at 5 p.m., the runway show will introduce the 2013 transgender youth empowerment calendar, complete with a fashion show in which transgender-identified models appear in multiple outfits designed by students from the Art Institute of California.
"The transgender program at Children's Hospital Los Angeles provides services such as individualized case management, mental health services, HIV prevention and care and general health care," says Bamby Salcedo, project coordinator. Angels of Change allows the opportunity to raise funds while simultaneously showcasing the beauty and strength of each model. This year, actress, author and activist Calpernia Addams will host as 12 transgender youth models featured in the calendar work the runway.
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Why is it important to you to be involved with transgender youth?
I remember how difficult and lonely it was for me as a young person. There are so many different resources for lesbian and gay people, but trans people are still really misunderstood—I think even by the larger lesbian and gay community. So as somebody who's been through it, I try to show kids that it is possible to transition even with limited resources. It's possible to find a nurturing community, and it's possible to come out the other side in life where you feel fulfilled and happy. I'm really excited to see what the kids do at Angels of Change. I know they'll be amazing, and I'm always inspired when I get to spend time with some of the younger people.
