OutSFL reached out to Dixon Bloom, first time winner of the Readers’ Choice Award for New LGBTQ Advocate, to find out a little more about him.
This is what he told us: “I've been working in social services since 2006 and my heart has always been with the LGBTQ+ community. Becoming a counselor felt like a natural step because I wanted to create the kind of safe, welcoming space I know so many people need. In my practice, I get to walk alongside people as they navigate their journeys — celebrating their strengths, standing with them in the hard moments, and being someone they can count on. I feel especially honored to support my trans brothers and sisters, who face unique challenges that no one should have to face alone. What makes me unique in our community is the way I combine both my professional experience and my personal passion for advocacy.
“Beyond my counseling practice I also serve through my nonprofit work with the Imperial Sun Court of All Florida, raising funds, building awareness and supporting organizations that strengthen the community. It's about trust, uplifting voices, and creating opportunities for people to feel empowered to embrace who they are. My hope is that people see me also as a neighbor, and advocate and someone who genuinely cares. Winning the Readers’ Choice Award means so much to me because it comes from the people I care about most: my community.”
“It tells me that the work I pour my heart into is making a difference, it encourages me to keep speaking up for those whose voices still need to be heard. This award feels less like recognition of me and more like a celebration of us all, compounded with the progress we're making together.”
Runner-up: Michelle Santos
