Celebrating LGBTQ+ Trailblazers on TikTok

This month, TikTok is celebrating Pride by highlighting the inspiring stories of LGBTQ+ Trailblazers. One of the featured creators is Seth Sanker, a photographer and fashion content creator from Southern California.

Embracing Queerness and Challenging Gender Norms

Seth, a proud first-generation Asian American, identifies as a gender non-conforming male. He believes that fashion has no gender and uses his creative videos on TikTok to transform pride flags into dresses. Seth's unique perspective and creativity have gained him recognition and made him known to people.

Finding Support and Authenticity

To Seth, Pride means having a supportive community that becomes your chosen family. It is a place where you can be your authentic self without fear of judgment. Over time, Seth has embraced his identity and sees it as one of the best parts of himself that deserves celebration.

Overcoming Internal Struggles

Seth's identity has influenced him in profound ways. Initially, he tried to downplay his identity due to internalized homophobia and transphobia. However, as he grew older, he worked through these internal struggles and fully embraced his queerness. Seth now wants everyone to know that being queer is one of the best parts of him.

Walking with Confidence

To celebrate and support the LGBTQ+ community, Seth embraces his queerness and walks with confidence every day. He believes that being unapologetically queer is a powerful way to celebrate the community and show self-love. Seth also uplifts and celebrates his LGBTQ+ family, giving them the space they need to be themselves.

TikTok as a Source of Inspiration

The TikTok community has been a tremendous source of inspiration for Seth. Growing up, he didn't have social media platforms where he could freely express himself. TikTok has boosted his confidence, helped him rebuild his self-worth, and provided a space where he can truly be himself and be embraced for it. Additionally, TikTok has inspired him in fashion, making him realize that fashion has no gender and everyone should be able to wear whatever they want.

Advice for Creators

Seth advises other creators to be consistent in posting content without burning out. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing mental health and engaging with the audience to establish a genuine connection. Being authentic is crucial, especially on TikTok, a platform that celebrates diversity and uniqueness. Seth believes that celebrating what makes you different is the key to gaining a following on TikTok.

Advice for the LGBTQ+ Community

To the next generation of the LGBTQ+ community, Seth advises taking as much time as needed to discover oneself. It's okay to change and explore different identities. He encourages individuals to take up space and not dim their shine for anyone. Queerness is personal and should not seek validation from others.

Being an Ally

To be allies to the LGBTQ+ community, Seth suggests uplifting their voices and ensuring they are heard. It is important to conduct research and not expect the queer community to educate others. Continuous learning and unlearning are essential in being a supportive ally.

Recommended LGBTQ+ TikTok Creators

Seth recommends following LGBTQ+ TikTok creators such as @matt_and_omar for their humor and awareness of current events, @rainbowdads for showcasing queer parents, @plastique_tiara for their stunning Asian queen persona, @ilya.lobacheva for their amazing genderless fashion, and @dmichaelburke for their hilarious content.