Thursday, February 6th, 2025 | Midtown Art Cinema
As the lights dimmed at Midtown Art Cinema and the energy of Georgia’s LGBTQIA+ business community buzzed in the air, OUT Georgia Business Alliance’s Kickoff 2025 set the tone for a year of connection, empowerment, and impact. With an inspiring agenda, powerful storytelling, and an engaged audience of members, corporate partners, and community allies, this event wasn’t just a gathering—it was a movement.
And thanks to the incredible talent of nationally certified photographer Cassie Wright (she/her) of ShotByCassie.com, we’ve captured the magic in a stunning photo gallery you won’t want to miss!
A Night of Inspiration and Connection
From the moment guests arrived, the evening flowed with warmth, purpose, and opportunities to strengthen our business community. The night unfolded with three key elements:
1. Welcome & Networking Reception
The Kickoff 2025 energy was undeniable as LGBTQIA+ business owners, corporate executives, community leaders, and allies connected over shared goals and new opportunities. Conversations sparked potential collaborations, job prospects, and innovative ideas to drive Georgia’s inclusive economy forward.
2. The Power of Visibility & Community
The formal program opened with a thought-provoking pronoun video from Maite Nazario (they/them) featuring LGBTQ+ leader Gabrielle Claiborne (she/her). This set the stage for an evening dedicated to amplifying voices and fostering intentional inclusivity.
OUT Georgia Board Leadership Stepped Up:
- Board Vice Chair Nate Regan (he/him) & Board Chair Danielle Bonanno (she/her) officially welcomed attendees, reinforcing the organization’s bold vision for 2025.
- Bruce Logue (he/him) & Ariel Reyes (he/him) introduced the power of networking and the Business Exchange Network, a key tool for fostering collaboration and economic empowerment within the LGBTQIA+ business community.
- Dewayne Queen (he/him) shared a heartfelt story on member connection, spotlighting Che Houston (she/her) of Che Rene Macarons and the profound impact of community-driven support.
- Andi Monroe (they/them) delivered a compelling speech acknowledging Black History Month, the power of unity, and resiliency—reminding us that when we show up for one another, we create space for collective success.
- Troy Parker (he/him) of OUT Georgia Impact Fund closed the program with an inspiring call to action, highlighting how corporate partners and community allies—including Thrive SS, Lambda Legal, and OUT on Film—are driving equity and economic justice.
3. Deeper Conversations & Lasting Connections
As the program concluded, attendees continued chatting, connecting, and forging new partnerships. Whether securing new business deals, finding mentorship opportunities, or simply strengthening friendships, Kickoff 2025 proved that the OUT Georgia network is more than an alliance—it’s a community.
Relive the Moments: Explore the Photo Gallery
The moments that defined the night—laughter, deep discussions, and the spark of new possibilities—were beautifully captured by Cassie Wright (she/her) of ShotByCassie.com. Browse the full gallery and see the energy, authenticity, and vibrancy of Georgia’s LGBTQIA+ business community in action!
Join Us for a Year of Impact
The momentum from Kickoff 2025 is just the beginning! Corporate partners, small business owners, and allies—this is your moment to get involved.
Whether through membership, sponsorship, or community investment, let’s make 2025 a breakthrough year for economic inclusion.
🔗 Become a Member | 💼 Partner with Us | 📅 Upcoming Events
Together, we’re building a bold future for LGBTQIA+ businesses in Georgia. Let’s get to work.
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