Additional information
by Diva Newbold (Author), LeRoi Newbold (Author), Daniel Lastres (Photographer)
Making The Moment is the story of a young 10-year-old fem queen (*trans girl) making her debut in ballroom. As she moves through the community getting ready to compete, she comes across various friends and house members who give her advice, support, tokens, and the confidence to walk the runway. Will she make it to the ball in time and have her effect ready? Will she be able to dispel the doubts of those who aren't used to seeing someone so young in the scene? Will the judges see it for her? This is the story of Making The Moment.
Author Biography
Diva Newbold aka Diva Siriano is a 10-year-old performer, actress, gamer, and student. Diva is the youngest person in Canada to win a "grand prize" at a ball and the youngest person in Canada to win "fem queen of the year", or any OTF (of the year) prize. Diva is a proud member of the kiki House of Siriano.
LeRoi Newbold is an educator, community organizer, parent/caregiver and author. Having completed his masters at York University in Black Liberatory Education, LeRoi has worked at the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement in the TDSB and taught at the Africentric Alternative School for 10 years. LeRoi is a co-director of FreedomSchool - Toronto, which is a youth and parent-driven initiative that intervenes to fight anti-Black racism in the school system and to create educational alternatives for Black children. LeRoi has authored a number of children's workbooks on the topic of Black Liberation.
Daniel Lastres, a visionary photographer, explores the realms of photojournalism and video, creating a portfolio that has been featured in PAPER Magazine, Canada's Drag Race, Vogue, and advertising nationwide. An integral part of Lastres' artistic mission is showcasing the inherent beauty within queer communities, challenging societal norms and false representations. A constant advocate for diversity and authenticity, Lastres is on a mission to deconstruct conventional beauty standards, utilizing their lens to spread the message that beauty knows no bounds and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of queer expression.
