The fight for trans rights is far from over and will continue for decades. Now the next generation of leaders is getting a boost. TransEd awarded $12,500 to four trans students pursuing higher education.

Ky Walker came out in middle school and found Compass, and has worked there since August in HIV prevention. He found TransEd and quickly became a supporter.

“The work they do with trans young adults is incredible. Once I turned 18 I was all alone out there and was finding my way. Now I try to be that [role model] for them.”

Walker, along with Avi Brieir, Apollo Rush, and Tyia Hareland, were awarded the scholarships, most of which were provided with the help of Holy Cross Health and Unity On the Bay, a queer-embracing church in Miami-Dade.

The presentation took two days before Hareland moved to Chicago to finish her graduate studies with the goal of helping trans youth understand who they are.

“This was very surreal. I didn’t expect the amount of time and care they put into everything was phenomenal. It’s a beautiful way to close out my time in South Florida,” she said.

TransEd was founded in 2023 by local trans icon and activist Franchesca D’Amore. In 2024, they awarded their first $2,500 in scholarships. The goal for next year is to double this year’s total and give out $25,000.