More than 1,200 lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth (LGBTQ) and friends are expected to attend the Los Angeles LGBT Center’s 23rd annual Models of Pride conference. Participants from more than 100 Southern California cities and 75 schools will participate in the event at the University of Southern California (USC) campus on Saturday, Oct. 10 from 7:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.

(photo courtesy of the Los Angeles LGBT Center)

As the nation’s largest free conference of its kind, Models of Pride offers a full day of life-enriching programming designed to help young people build confidence and self-esteem and develop valuable life skills. With “Sharing Our Stories” as this year’s theme, each speaker, presenter, artist and volunteer involved with the conference will share their stories throughout the day with youth participants and challenge them to do the same in order to create change in their own lives and communities. Organized by the Center’s LifeWorks youth development and mentoring program, the day also includes workshops and presentations, lunch and dinner, live entertainment and resource, college and career fairs for all youth up to the age of 24.

Adding to the excitement of this year’s Models of Pride, MTV stars Michael Willett and Todrick Hall are scheduled to perform.

In addition to the youth portion of the conference, more than 200 parents, educators, social service providers and other youth-serving professionals will attend workshops tailored to their concerns and interests. Known as the Parents and Professionals Institute, this full-day program for adults is free.

The conference will be streamed live online again at modelsofpride.org/worldwide for the benefit of youth and adult allies who cannot attend the event.