Empowerment is just a follow away—meet the queer influencers who are coloring our world with pride and joy every single day.
Standing in 2024, it’s clear that we have come a long way in queer representation. Yet, we’re still far from reaching our ultimate goals. Shadows still loom over the rainbow spectrum, but there are resilient individuals who rise every day to challenge these barriers. They are not just any influencers; they are educators, inspirers and staunch advocates for community rights, championing social justice like no others.
In this article, we give a shoutout to five queer influencers who continue to strengthen their visibility and brighten our feeds with vibrant splashes of color and joy.
Matt Bernstein (@mattxiv) (He/They)
Image from Matt Bernstein’s Instagram handle
Matt Bernstein, a.k.a., mattxiv on Instagram, has been advocating for queer rights since his high school days. Through his social media channels and podcast “A Bit Fruity”, Matt talks about political and cultural issues, aiming to dismantle conservatism and bigotry. He passionately defends the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community, whether in war zones, schools, workplaces or even on dating apps. As you scroll through his content, you’ll see his outspoken critiques of controversial figures like J.K Rowling, Amy Schumer and Drake Bell.
Matt has cultivated a supportive community where his followers find solace and advice on personal challenges like coming out or coping with homophobic relatives and friends. And don’t forget to check out his Instagram highlights for some truly inspiring nail art!
Yasmin Benoit (@theyasminbenoit) (She/Her)
Image from Yasmin Benoit’s Instagram handle
Yasmin Benoit is a British model and an influential activist for the asexual (ACE) community. As a vocal advocate, she directly confronts acephobia and challenges the frequent undervaluation of asexuality—a common issue within the queer community. Yasmin initiated the #ThisIsWhatAsexualLooksLike movement to debunk stereotypes about what asexual people “should” look like.
Serving as a board member of the Asexual Visibility and Education Network (AVEN) and as a co-founder of International Asexuality Day (April 6), Yasmin’s efforts extend far beyond social media. She made a significant impact at Prague Pride 2019, where she delivered TEDx-style talks, bringing asexuality visibility to the forefront for the first time at the event. Moreover, the same year, she established Ace of Clubs, the first asexual pop-up bar at London Pride, providing a unique and safe space for asexual individuals to connect and celebrate.
Chappell Roan (@chappellroan) (She/Her)
Image from Chappell Roan’s Instagram handle
Missouri-born Chappell Roan, originally Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, is infusing the music scene with her dynamic queer energy. Her songs, inspired by ’80s synth-pop and early 2000s hits, celebrate self-expression in a campy style that draws heavily from drag culture. At the young age of 17, Roan’s original song Die Young caught the eye of Atlantic Records, which signed her shortly afterward.
In 2017, she released her debut EP, School Nights. However, it was her 2020 single Pink Pony Club that truly brought her into the spotlight. An ode to queer culture inspired by an enlightening night at a gay bar, this song has become an anthem for self-acceptance.
Roan is also known for her electrifying live performances, which often feature drag queens and themed outfits. She has captivated audiences as an opener for Olivia Rodrigo’s Guts World Tour and at Coachella in 2024, securing her place as a powerful voice for queer representation in the music industry.
Trixie Mattel (@trixiemattel) (She/Her)
Image from Trixie Mattels Instagram handle
Trixie Mattel, the quintessential queer icon known as “Skinny Legend”, is a dazzling force in the LGBTQ+ community. Not only is she an iconic drag queen, but she’s also a talented singer and comedian who stole the spotlight as the winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars Season 3. Trixie’s distinctive high-camp, 1960s-inspired style and bold eye makeup have made her a fan favorite.
But Trixie’s talents don’t stop at drag. Trixie has climbed the Billboard charts with albums like “Two Birds” and “One Stone” and has become a YouTube sensation alongside Katya with their hit shows UNHhhh on YouTube and I Like to Watch on Netflix. In 2019, Trixie launched her own cosmetics line, Trixie Cosmetics. The makeup line merges ‘90s and ‘00s nostalgia with Barbie-themed packaging that dazzles fans longing for a splash of the past.
Her diverse career also includes a bio-documentary, Trixie Mattel: Moving Parts, the co-authored New York Times bestseller Trixie and Katya’s Guide to Modern Womanhood and the popular podcast “The Bald And The Beautiful” with Katya. Trixie’s collaborations with stars like Orville Peck and Lily Tomlin have solidified her status as a pioneering entertainer and businesswoman.
In 2023, Trixie rocked the Stagecoach Festival and snagged multiple GLAAD and Critics Choice Award nominations. Obviously, this Milwaukee native will continue to push boundaries and inspire a global audience with her unique blend of talent and activism.
Cody Daigle-Orians (@acedadadvice) (They /Them/Theirs)
Image from Cody Daigle-Orians’s Instagram handle
Meet Cody Daigle-Orians, an inspiring queer, ace and agender writer and educator based in Columbus, Ohio. They are the creative force behind Ace Dad Advice, a social media project designed to support those exploring asexuality.
Cody’s literary contributions are nothing short of inspiring. They are the author of young adult books I Am Ace: Advice on Living Your Best Asexual Life and The Ace and Aro Relationship Guide. Both books are essential reads for anyone wanting to understand asexuality and the ace/aro spectrum. Cody also contributed to the 2024 Lambda Literary Award finalist anthology, Being Ace.
Recognized as a 2024 Lambda Literary Fellow and a 2023 nominee for the British LGBTQ Award for Online Influencer, Cody’s influence extends beyond the page. They are a dynamic speaker, showcased in the GLAAD-nominated NBC Chicago series “It’s OK to Ask Questions”, where they engage and enlighten audiences about the complexities of asexuality.
Cody also offers a range of talks and trainings tailored for schools, organizations and community groups. Their presentations, like “The Future Is Asexual” and “Asexual Sex and How To Have It”, provide deep insights into the ace and aro experiences, helping audiences understand these identities far beyond the basics.
Concluding thoughts
These five queer influencers are more than just social media stars—they are pillars of hope, resilience and authenticity. Through their powerful storytelling and commitment to change, they enrich the lives of their followers. Their boldness in living openly and passionately underscores the transformative power of representation.
If you’re on the lookout for inspiration, a sense of community or simply a good dose of fabulousness, make sure to follow these incredible influencers!
Also read:
- What Is the Point of Virtual Influencers?
- Gender in the NFT Economy
- Decoding K-Drama Celebrity: Unmasking the Bare Truth of Influencer Culture
Header Image from Pexels
