Philadelphia nonprofit leader Hazel Edwards recognized in Out Magazine's Pride 100

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- As Pride History Month is celebrated, a Philadelphia nonprofit leader is being recognized nationally for her advocacy and leadership in the LGBTQ+ community.

Hazel Edwards, executive director of the Philadelphia-based nonprofit Galaei, was named to Out Magazine's annual Pride 100 list, which recognizes influential and impactful LGBTQ+ people.

Edwards, 29, made history at Galaei when she took the helm as executive director.

"I am the first black trans woman to hold this role," Edwards said.

Galaei focuses on social justice for queer and transgender people of color. Edwards said the recognition reflects work she has long believed was meaningful.

"To be honest, it feels correct," she said.

Edwards said reaching that point followed a difficult journey that included coming out as a transgender woman during her senior year of high school.

"It reached a point where I knew it was a matter or life or death for me," Edwards said. "I knew that if I didn't come out and express myself authentically, then I wouldn't have been here."

At the time, Edwards was attending an all-boys school. She said she felt there was no place for her if the school could not support her.

"If they weren't going to support me or didn't have the resources to support me, I just knew there wasn't a space for me," she said.

Four months before graduation, Edwards left the school. Just six months later, when the school sought training on supporting transgender students, she returned to share her experiences as she was working with another non-profit serving the LGBTQ+ community.

"After that training, my principal came up to me and said the student is now the teacher!!" Edwards said.

Her advocacy work later included helping write the School District of Philadelphia's Policy 252, which is intended to protect transgender students.

Through her work, Edwards has also addressed issues including safety and food insecurity affecting transgender communities.

"We center the lives of trans folks we have lost," Edwards said to action news.

The non-profit also provides free clothing and food.

"It is really important to provide healthy nutritious meals," she said.

Edwards said her work is driven by a larger purpose and a belief in the value of every person.

"I know that I'm meant for something greater than myself," she said. "We're all deserving and worthy."

The Pride 100 special edition magazine featuring Edwards and other honorees is available on newsstands.