Happy Pride Month! Each year, Pride Month is celebrated in June in honor of the 1969 Stonewall Riots in Manhattan, New York. Here at Stride, diversity fuels us and serves as one of our core values as a company. By respecting, celebrating, and empowering our unique backgrounds and perspectives, we grow stronger as a team and bring creative solutions to our diverse members.

To celebrate Pride Month, we'd like to highlight one of our inspiring members, Lola, from Miami.

Hi, Lola! What kind of self-employed work do you do?

Lola: I'm a makeup artist, singer, influencer, and Doctoral student.

Were there any unique challenges you faced in starting your business because you were a member of the LGBTQIA+ community? If so, how did you handle them?

Lola: I have a few challenges in my path. I’m a plus sized woman, with a female partner, and the mother of a child with autism. Every day is a challenge to see past others’ prejudices and to continue to be artistic and share my creativity. Some make-up brands do not want to be controversial, so they steer away from openly proud influencers; on the flip side, there are companies that champion this diversity. The challenge every day is not knowing what reaction you will be facing regarding your persona, while putting yourself out there and remaining confident, positive, and authentic.

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?

Lola: Day-to-day, I see how this community binds together. There is an unspoken support and understanding of one another that is beautiful. When proud positive members of this community come together, the support is incredible.

What advice would you give to fellow LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs? 

Lola: Don’t be afraid to be yourself. Look at your differences from others as assets rather than challenges. Stay authentic and go for the dreams that scare you a bit. They’re the most worthwhile and fulfilling.

You can see Lola's work on her Instagram.