How Jeffree is helping inner-city LGBTQIA+ youth gain access to mental health resources

This is part of a series of stories we’re sharing about independent workers. Since June is Pride Month, we’re recognizing members of the LGBTQIA+ community and bringing to light the unique stories and challenges they face. We spoke with Jeffree to learn more about his experience as an LGBTQIA+ independent worker.

Hi, Jeffree! Tell us about yourself and what kind of self-employed work you do.

I live in Long Beach, California and started a non-profit organization called “HealingSELA.” It’s an organization that ensures South East Los Angeles city’s youth are not overlooked when it comes to mental health services. We serve inner-city, at risk, LGBTQIA+ and homeless youth between the ages of 15 and 24. 

There aren’t many mental health resources available to this population compared to others, so HealingSELA was created to make sure that they have resources in their own backyard at a fraction of the cost (or even free). These services are provided by individuals that are similar to the people we serve—black and brown, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and who have grown up the way they did. I work with assembly members, council members, mayors, and community leaders to put on events and to make sure our youth, especially LGBTQIA+ youth, are heard and seen.

Were there any unique challenges you faced in starting your business because you were a member of the LGBTQIA+ community?

Yes, some parents I encountered were concerned that I’d convert their child to homosexuality. I try to be very open about my own sexuality so others don’t feel unseen or silenced. I try my best to tell parents to support the possibility of their child being a part of the LGBTQIA+ community. I’m trained and experienced in dealing with mental health issues, and I try my best to bring out what youths have hiding within in order to better serve them.

How about the other side of the coin: Were there any advantages that being a member of the LGBTQIA+ community provided in starting your own business?

I get a lot of support from other LGBTQIA+ organizations and programs, which is great. People find me safer to talk to, and since I’m a member of the community myself, I can better serve my community. I know what it’s like being black and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and it gives me more leverage and openness.

What advice would you give to fellow LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs?

Be yourself—don’t try to be someone you’re not just to stay in the game. You’ll be closeting yourself all over again and your business won’t succeed if you’re not investing in your true and honest self.

Thanks for you sharing your story and advice with us and the rest of the Stride community, Jeffree! You can see more of the work Jeffree is doing with the Los Angeles community on his Instagram.