During Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, we celebrate the rich histories, vibrant cultures, and powerful…

June 24, 2025
Every June, communities across the country celebrate Pride Month, a time to honor the resilience, brilliance, and leadership of the LGBTQIA+ community. At New Leaders Council, we’re proud to uplift alumni who lead boldly, advocate unapologetically, and create space for others to thrive.
This month, we’re spotlighting three incredible NLC alumni whose lives and work exemplify the values of equity, authenticity, and community care.

Lana Mims
Lana Mims (NLC Palm Beach 2024) (she/her, they/them) is bringing movement, media, and joy to South Florida. A former athletic director and teacher, Lana is now a fitness professional and entrepreneur growing her personal training business.
But her leadership doesn’t stop there.
As a drag king performer, podcast host of Unapologetically Queer, and entertainment show host in Wilton Manors, Lana uses the power of public engagement to create affirming and empowering spaces for LGBTQIA+ communities. Her foundation as a college athlete and team captain still shapes the way she shows up today, with confidence, collaboration, and heart.

Jin-Soo Huh
Jin-Soo Huh (NLC Chicago 2024) (he/him) is a changemaker in education and policy. After more than a decade as a math teacher and school system leader, Jin-Soo now supports school districts across the country through his work at The Learning Accelerator, with a focus on equity-centered, student-driven learning models.
Beyond education, he is also a fierce advocate for LGBTQIA+ and AAPI communities, serving as Chair of Chicago’s Mayoral LGBTQ+ Advisory Council and contributing to organizations like Equality Illinois and the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund. Through writing, organizing, and mentoring, Jin-Soo continues to expand what inclusive leadership looks like in practice.

Angel Bernardino
Angel Bernardino (NLC Sacramento 2024) (she/her) is rooted in advocacy and care. A trans Mexicana and proud UC Davis graduate, Deeply committed to uplifting LGBTQIA+ students and communities, Angel’s work as a Trans Advocate and Student Services Specialist at the UC Davis LGBTQIA Resource Center reflects her dedication to inclusive education and student support.
She also serves on the board of the Sacramento Stonewall Foundation, where she champions efforts to make K–12 schools more affirming for LGBTQIA+ youth. Outside of her advocacy, Angel enjoys gardening with native plants, spending time with her niblings, and exploring nature across Northern California.
From drag stages to classrooms, city halls to wildlife trails, these NLC alumni are living proof that leadership comes in many forms and that authenticity is a superpower. This Pride Month, we honor all of our LGBTQIA+ leaders who make our communities more inclusive, more joyful, and more just.
At New Leaders Council, we don’t just celebrate Pride in June, we champion LGBTQIA+ leadership every day.
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