Tonatiuh
Tonatiuh, the mononymous breakout star of the critically acclaimed film Kiss of the Spider Woman, will be celebrated as this year’s “Models of Pride” honoree by the Los Angeles LGBT Center.
With his magnetic screen presence that people are calling “deeply human,” and an unwavering dedication to authentic storytelling, Tonatiuh is rapidly emerging as one of Hollywood’s most compelling new voices.
“Being named this year’s Model of Pride by the Los Angeles LGBT Center is an incredible honor,” said Tonatiuh.
“My mission has always been to bring dignity and depth to every character I embody and to tell stories that foster a more loving and tolerant society. My family immigrated to this country not knowing the language. My mother first worked at a drive-thru to support our family. As a kid, a career in the arts wasn’t even in my realm of possibility. But a decade later—after years of work, the support of a loving community, and a refusal to take ‘no’ for an answer—I am now the lead in a Hollywood film. I’m overjoyed to celebrate with this new generation and say: I am one of you, and yes, it’s possible.”
Now in its 33rd year, Models of Pride is the largest free LGBTQ+ youth summit, drawing hundreds of young people and their families for a day of workshops, performances, and community connection.
The event will take place Saturday, October 25, 2025 from 11AM-4PM at the Center’s Anita May Rosenstein Campus in Hollywood.
“Tonatiuh embodies the courage, authenticity, and artistry that bring to life the vibrant voices too often unheard,” said Joe Hollendoner, CEO of the Los Angeles LGBT Center.
“From his earliest performances on our stage to his growing presence in film and television, he shows us that visibility matters, authenticity empowers, and a single voice—spoken with heart—can inspire an entire generation of LGBTQ+ leaders.”
This year’s event will bring together an inspiring mix of talent and community leaders, including host Kevin Ninh—better known to millions online as FlawlessKevin—and Tonatiuh, who will take part in a live Q&A exploring themes of belonging and representation. Together, they’ll celebrate creativity, visibility, and the power of young LGBTQ+ people to shape the future.
Models of Pride will feature interactive workshops, gaming lounges, carnival games, and delicious food for LGBTQ+ youth (ages 24 and younger), their friends, and families. The event also includes the Parents and Professionals Institute (PPI), offering parents, educators, and adult supporters a unique opportunity to learn, connect, and build community.
Models of Pride is made possible by the following sponsors: Comcast NBCUniversal Telemundo, Glamazon L.A.—Amazon’s LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group, NYX Professional Makeup,and U.S. Bank, along with Junior sponsor Yitty and Sophomore sponsor Gibson Dunn & Crutcher LLP.
For more information or to register, visit modelsofpride.org.
