Rainbow Labs is proud to present the 2025 Violet Visionary Awards — an unforgettable evening celebrating LGBTQIA+ leaders, mentors, and changemakers who are lighting the way for the next generation.
This annual event honors individuals and organizations that embody the spirit of empowerment, resilience, and joy. We will uplift the power of LGBTQIA+ expression—in fashion, art, dance, voice, and story—as a revolutionary force fueling queer joy and collective freedom.
2025 Event Details
DATE & TIME
Thursday, October 16th
6-10pm
LOCATION
Serra On Vine (Hollywood),
1161 Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90038
Hosted by:
Monét X Change
(RuPaul’s Drag Race, The Traitors) is a Los Angeles based stand-up
comedian and true multi-hyphenate born and bred in New York City.
Honorees
HEART OF THE COMMUNITY AWARD
ALOK
The Heart of the Community Award honors an LGBTQIA+ community member whose activism, leadership, and compassion embody our community's pulse and resilience.
VOICE OF INSPIRATION AWARD
Lia Thomas
The Voice of Inspiration Award honors an individual whose story and actions ignite hope and courage within the LGBTQ+ community.
Plus, special performances from…
Tenderoni
Chicago-based drag king and judge on King of Drag featured on Revry.
Calypso Jete Balmain
WC house mother of the iconic ballroom house, Balmain, & Winner of HBO’s Legendary Season 1.
Los Angeles-based Drag Queen and renowned Bearded Beauty of West Hollywood.
Butter
Host Committee
Michael Chavez
Philip Javellana
Greg Lam
Ryan Mitchell
Aram Nadjarian
Donn Ogilvie
Marcos Perez
Andres Palencia
Aaron Sharpe
C.J Stermer
Ari Ezra Waldman
2025 Violet Visionary Award Sponsors
Set against a vibrant backdrop of performance, storytelling, and community, the Violet Visionary Awards uplifts the voices of our youth and highlights the transformative power of mentorship. The evening includes:
Live
Performances
by iconic LGBTQIA+ performance artists, centering on the theme:
Queer Liberation Through Self-Expression
Tenderoni (Drag King - Featured on King of Drag)
Butters (Drag Queen)
Calypso (Featured on Legendary)
Three Powerful Awards
A chance to meet the visionaries and youth leaders building tomorrow!
Heart of the Community Award
Voice of the Community Award
Light of the Future Award
Event Timeline
Cocktail Hour & Heavy Hors d’Oeuvres
6:00 – 7:00 PM
7:00 – 8:00 PM
Program & Live Performances
Attendee FAQs + Policies
8:00 – 10:00 PM
Drinks, Mingling, & Dancing
Attire:
Violet & Vibrant
Attire: Violet & Vibrant
What should I wear?
Suggested attire is “Violet & Vibrant” — you’re invited to express your style in a bold pop of color, full violet look, or creative statement piece.
Bag Policy
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests, we kindly ask that you refrain from bringing large bags, purses, or backpacks to the event. Only small personal bags will be permitted — no larger than 12" x 6" x 12". Please note that all bags are subject to search upon entry.
Can I purchase tickets at the door?
Ticket availability at the door is subject to capacity. We encourage you to purchase in advance to secure your spot.
Is parking available?
We are offering limited valet services on a first come, first serve basis. Street parking is available but also limited due to residential restrictions.
Is the event accessible to people with disabilities?
Yes — the venue is ADA accessible.
Will there be a coat check?
Yes, a limited coat check will be available for jackets and coats only. Please note that we’re unable to accommodate backpacks or large bags.
What is your photography/filming policy?
Photography and videography will take place throughout the evening. By entering, you consent to the use of your image, voice, or likeness for promotional materials. If you prefer not to be photographed or filmed, please do not enter the space.
What is your refund / cancellation policy?
Tickets are final sale and not refundable or transferable.
All proceeds from the evening go directly to Rainbow Labs’ year-round programming that provides LGBTQIA+ youth with mentorship, leadership training, and creative development opportunities. Join us as we honor those who lead with heart, speak with power, and dream in violet.
2024 Violet Visionary Awards
Anchoring Rainbow Labs as a leader in the LGBTQIA+ Youth Mentorship space, the first Violet Visionary Awards was in 2024. It brought together funders, VIPs, celebrities, and supporters to honor three individuals and organizations that are making an impact for LGBTQIA+ community.
Winners of the 2024 Violet Visionary Awards:
VINCINT, a gifted artist whose work amplifies our stories and drives meaningful change, received the Voice of the Community award, which celebrates those whose voice uplifts and empowers the LGBTQ+ community.
Ashlee Marie Preston received the Heart of the Community award, recognizing someone whose love and resilience inspire the LGBTQ+ community. This year's recipient is a beacon of hope, especially for LGBTQ+ youth, showing the strength within their journeys.
Gael (mentor) and Allix (mentee) received the Light Of The Future award for their mentor/mentee relationship and growth.
A special thank you to our Event Chairs Jose Diaz and Nicole Krakoff, Event Host Committee.
Moments from last year’s Violet Awards
Relive the magic from our previous gala
2024 Violet Visionary Award Sponsors
“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”
— Rainbow Labs Youth