LUMINATE
Luminate is a cohort-based program designed to equip communities with resources that empower their lives, build their communities, and provide an opportunity for community outreach, the reduction of HIV transmission, and ecosystem development.
Supported by grant funding from Gilead Sciences, Inc. Gilead Sciences, Inc. has had no input into the development or content of these materials.
Cohort and Community
Luminate will convene cohorts that will develop programming and resources to help end the epidemic of HIV while engaging their social networks, elected officials, and each other through innovative, exciting, and co-curated experiences. Scroll down to learn more or apply by clicking the button below.
HIV Testing
We will offer free screenings for HIV Testing. Each person completing an HIV Test will have a $25 incentive on behalf of generous support from a grant from Bunnies on the Bayou.
Get your incentivized text by clicking the button below.
This program is done in partnership with Montrose Grace Place.
Montrose Grace Place’s mission is to provide a safe, welcoming environment for vulnerable youth experiencing homelessness of all sexualities and genders, providing nourishment, healthy relationships, and hope for the future.
Currently Enrolling:
Drag University
Our first cohort of LUMINATE is centered around the drag community. This cohort will learn skills to enrich their drag careers, including makeup application, hair styling, beginner garment tailoring, and stage presence coupled with community empowerment and HIV education. This cohort requires a commitment of 8 bi-weekly sessions, a community project, and an on-stage finale. This is open to anyone across the gender spectrum and is open to people whose drag is across the gender spectrum.
Drag University Timeline
Applications Open
Applications will open on December 1, 2024, and will stay open until January 5, 2025. Applicants should reside in Houston, Texas, and be able to commit to an in-person program over the first six months of the year.
Cohort Starts
Applicants will be notified of their acceptance or denial in mid-January 2025 and the cohort will begin four in-person sessions at our drop-in center in Third Ward, Houston, Texas.
Retreat
After the completion of the beginning sessions, the cohort will go into a weekend retreat where they will practice and get ready for their final projects, which include a pageant, an outreach component, and a digital media project.
Final Project
The cohort will be judged by their completion of the course curriculum, outreach engagement, the pageant, and the digital media projects. The winner will receive a package worth up to $5,000 in cash and prizes. The second and third runner-up will receive a package worth up to $1,000 in cash and prizes.
Each cohort member will receive $250 for participation in the program.