TEDxSantaCruz

Xinistra and Trashy use the art of drag and drag story time to explore how the art form creates and protects safe spaces for the q***r community and supports joy, self-expression, and the power of pride. ✨

Trashy holds a Bachelor’s in Social Work, equipping them for community strengthening. Currently pursuing a Clinical Mental Health Master’s, they aim to support q***r, gender nonconforming, and trans individuals. As a non-binary individual, Trashy fosters safe spaces and community through drag. They are a member of Drag Story Time Santa Cruz

Xinistra holds a UC Santa Cruz modern literature degree. In drag, Xinistra emphasizes self-advocacy, and out of drag, she is working to support adults with developmental disabilities. A Pajaro Valley Pride board member, Xinistra, through drag, advocates for the LGBTQI+ community, empowering others and creating safe spaces for q***r individuals.

This talk was given at TEDxSantaCruz RisingTogether event in April earlier this year.

Drag Story Time: Protecting and Celebrating Q***r Spaces | Trashy & Xinistra | TEDxSantaCruz Xinistra and Trashy use the art of drag and the format of drag story time to explore how the art form creates and protects safe spaces for the q***r communit...

Elie Mabanza is a remarkable musician whose soulful sounds are deeply rooted in the rhythms and harmonies of his native Congo Brazzaville.

Through his music, Elie paints vivid pictures of joy and pain, using his hauntingly beautiful voice to tell stories not just from his life in Africa but also conveying universal truths that resonate across all boundaries. Performing in Lari, Lingala, French, and English, his songs are a bridge connecting diverse cultures with the message that “life is life and people are people everywhere.”

Experience the transformative power of Elie Mabanza’s music as he takes us on a journey from the heart of Africa to the soul of the world.

Elie performed at TEDxSantaCruz Rising Together April 2024.

"My Guitar" | Elie Mabanza | TEDxSantaCruz Elie Mabanza laments lost time and the plight of a soul who has lost its way. Employing gentle, soulful vocals and soft strumming on his guitar, Elie takes y...