AGE: 24
HOMETOWN: Brandon, Fla.
IDENTIFIES AS: Gay, Transgender Male
PRONOUNS: He/Him/His
SIGN: Leo
Cole Foust proudly occupies two identities within the LGBTQ community as a gay and transgender man. “Our LGBTQ identities are all unique to us,” he says. “I’m open and visible for those who can’t be.”
It’s an authenticity that he carries with him throughout his personal and professional life. As an artist and musician, he paints, writes, sings and plays guitar to spark dialogue about gender and masculinity. “I’m a really creative person,” Cole says. “That’s a big part of who I am.”
As the LGBTQ+ program manager for Metro Inclusive Health, he oversees support programming throughout Tampa Bay, working to ensure the LGBTQ community feels valued. “I have a big heart for LGBTQ youth, for making sure that they have the resources and support from within the community,” he adds.
Since he spends so much time spreading love, it’s no surprise that Valentine’s Day is Cole’s favorite holiday. “I use it as a way to express myself creatively,” he says. “It’s an opportunity to just show love to everyone around me.”
As for who he’s looking to spend it with, it’s someone who understands the importance of compassion, community and creativity—just like he does.
