South Florida’s LGBTQ community is awash in retirees (or near-retirees) who decided to spend their latter years at the beach. The next generation of LGBTQ is planting their flag here while in their 20s – and are leaning on each other to make it happen.
SunServe has created the SunSocial Young Professionals group to help young members of the LGBTQ community meet and network. They meet monthly at various venues in and around Wilton Manors for cocktails, nibbles, and trade contact information.
The program is headed up by Keith Premier, SunServe’s Development & Community Engagement Coordinator.
“The group was designed to create a space for like-minded LGBTQ+ young professionals to network and build the next generation of vibrant and diverse community leaders, business leaders, and philanthropists,” he told OutSFL during a recent meeting.
The events attract dozens of young LGBTQ professionals in their 20s and 30s.
“One of the reasons I moved here was to look for other networking opportunities,” Noah Torres said. “As a gay man, I was also looking for young professional networking groups.”
Many communities don’t have large or visible LGBTQ communities. Greater Wilton Manors has a vibrant community that lets groups like this shine. This isn’t a monthly job fair or recruiting effort. The monthly meetups are very casual and very fun. Attendees are genuinely seizing an opportunity to find like-minded careerists beyond late nights at the clubs.
“We wanted to offer a healthier alternative to the typical social outlets by providing a space for meaningful connections and personal growth,” Premier said.
While it is a “young” professionals group, Premier says those further along in their careers are welcome and have something to offer.
“Moving forward, we aim to foster professional and leadership development by engaging seasoned professionals from various fields through dedicated mentorship and networking opportunities.”
“Out of the whole area, SunServe really is the place for the community. A place that’s local and very much a sanctuary,” Torres said.
The next gathering is Wednesday, July 17 at DrYnk Bar from 6 to 8 p.m.
