Yaya Kosikova | Commemorating Pride Month
Yaya Kosikova | Commemorating Pride Month
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In a nutshell, what's a normal day like for you?
I work as a portrait photographer and as a model. When I'm not working, my hobbies are things like traveling, exploring different cultures, riding my scooter, tennis and snowboarding.
What's your first memory of celebrating Pride Month?
My first memory of celebrating Pride Month was in NYC 10 years ago at the Pride parade. It was a super-overwhelming experience to me. I grew up around very close-minded mentalities in Slovakia where I couldn't be myself-it was very painful at times. I felt lonely, not accepted and like I didn't fit in. When I was walking through the crowd at the parade, I finally felt at home, accepted and complete. Everyone felt like brothers and sisters that day, and it was a wonderful feeling. I have that feeling every time I get to be at a gay-pride parade anywhere in the world. You can spot me with my favorite T-shirt: 'I love lesbians.' Haha!
What does Pride Month mean to you?
To me, Pride Month means that we all get united, meet new people and reinforce our Pride. It's when we all feel that we are not alone or the 'only one in the world.' Even though we might all be different, we always accept and never judge each other.
What are you doing this year to celebrate?
This year I get to explore gay pride in Mexico City with my girlfriend.
How would you love to see Pride Month evolve in the United States or the world?
It shouldn't be just one month; it should be a daily celebration, and people around the world should accept each other for what they are and who they love without putting labels on everything or everyone.
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