The Story Behind Our

Commitment to LGBTQ+

Empowerment

Our dedication stems from a deep commitment to

crafting authentic and inclusive strategies that

resonate with LGBTQ+ communities.

I’m beyond excited to share a bit of my journey and why we’ve all gathered in this magical space.

My Why?

I’m a fierce social justice advocate, and I believe wholeheartedly in the strength and resilience of our LGBTQ+ community. I know that together, we’re stronger, more impactful, and capable of creating lasting change. By elevating brands like yours, I help you achieve your impact goals, and that, in turn, fuels my passion and purpose.

Photo of Mandi Hawke doing heart hand gesture Happily explaining our Why

Now, let’s get real. If I start throwing data at you, will that inspire you? Probably not. What I want is for you to feel, without a doubt, that there’s no better place for you to be right now than here with me.

So, how do I hook your attention?


By helping you know, like, and trust me—just like you need to do with YOUR audience. So, who am I, and why should you care?


I’m an artist, author, entrepreneur, advocate, and mentor. I grew up surrounded by design and marketing. With over 15 years in LGBTQ+ social services, including as director of youth services and human resources, I’ve been in the trenches and understand your struggles.

The Turning Point

A Wild Sunday Night in December 2009 Photo of a drag king

A Wild Sunday Night

in December 2009

Imagine this: drag kings, amateur performers, and a nightclub buzzing with energy. That night, I made a spontaneous decision that flipped my life—volunteering for Drag It Out, a grassroots organization dedicated to gender expansiveness and self-expression.

From Admin to Center

Stage: My Voice

I started behind the scenes, doing admin work and managing the organization’s Myspace page (remember that?). But eventually, I found my way to the stage, and that’s where my personal growth journey truly began.

From Admin to CenterStage: My Voice Photo of Mandi as a drag king
From the Stage to Social Services Photo of Mandi working in LGBTQ nonprofit

From the Stage to

Social Services

During a performance at a pride event, I met the executive director of our local LGBTQ+ center. A few months later, I was writing grants and creating the youth department. Today, that same nonprofit’s youth department receives over half a million in grants annually.

Foster Parenting &

Finding My Purpose

Foster parenting became a big part of my life, especially welcoming LGBTQ+ teens into my home for eight years. But when the pandemic hit, I lost my job at the LGBTQ Center, and my home life was falling apart. I embraced freelancing, but something was missing—a sense of purpose.

Foster Parenting & Finding My Purpose Photo of Mandi and family
Finding My People: A Clearer Path Forward Photo of Mandi passionate about working with LGBTQ brands

Finding My People: A

Clearer Path Forward

After some soul-searching, I realized I needed to get crystal clear on who my people were. And guess who I decided on? LGBTQ+ centers, inclusive mental health organizations, and LGBTQ businesses like yours. So here I am, dedicated to supporting YOU!

Let’s Clarify Your Next Steps Together

If you’re ready to make an even bigger impact and need clarity

on how to take your LGBTQ+ organization or business to the next

level, I’d love to help you find the path forward.




























My passion for LGBTQ+ communities and storytelling touches every corner of my life, and I’m so excited to share it all with you. Let’s kick off this adventure together—because trust me, it’s going to be one heck of a ride!

Learn more about working with us and discover how we can empower your organization to embrace inclusivity and achieve remarkable results.

Branding and Marketing for Agencies Passionate about Inclusivity.

Proud Empowerment Business Solutions logo

Contact Us

  • South Florida, USA
  • 954-213-7112
  • social@proudempowerment.com

Office Hours

Mon-Fri: 10 AM – 4 PM

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

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