Jonté on Family
What does “family” mean to you and who belongs in yours?
Emily Orza, Markayda Clarke, Phoenix Faer and Baby Heath (He finally arrived). Family isn’t always blood. It’s the people that love you for who are you are and choose to be by your side no matter what- through every sunshine and storm. Family, especially chosen family, remind you of why you should keep pushing, why you should still wake up and choose to be here and they create the space for you to grow and, I can guarantee with mine, will stick through every change or evolution I go through- because thats what family do.
If your family had a theme song, what would it be?
The Nights – Avicii
What’s one word you’d use to describe yourself, and why?
Empathetic- I have the ability to engage with people emotionally and in some cases create that space for others to be vulnerable with me- which helps them feel safe and feel heard.
If you could shapeshift into anything for a day, what would you be?
Kirby-seriously,an 8 inch ball that can swallow worlds? Who wouldn’t want to give that a try?
A Few More Questions
What snack best represents your personality?
Watermelon
What is your most useless but impressive talent?
The ability to make naughty jokes out of anything
What advice would you give to your younger self, or someone struggling to feel seen?
Hang in there. I know you feel lonely right now but there is an entire world waiting for you to explore- don’t give up just yet- there are many surprises coming your way.
Dealer’s choice: what would you like to share with everyone?
Seriously, cottage cheese so underrated.
More Faces of Pride
Faces of Pride is a portrait project celebrating the LGBTQ2S+ community of the Kootenays. Browse the full collection of portraits and stories.