PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Downtown Portland came alive Thursday evening as iconic model, singer, and trans trailblazer Amanda Lepore headlined the return of the PDX LGBTQ+ Professionals Networking Hour.
Back to Werk After Summer Hiatus
After taking a summer break, the networking series relaunched under the theme “Back to Werk.” The event gathered queer professionals and allies from across Portland’s industries for an evening of connection, conversation, and celebration. Guests enjoyed drinks, music, and opportunities to build community in a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere.
Organizer Stephan Rabimov, the driving force behind the networking hour, credited community support and collaboration for making the evening a success. “It’s about creating a space where queer professionals can come together, support each other, and thrive,” Rabimov said.
Also Read
The Human Rights Campaign also attended, underscoring the event’s mission to foster visibility and solidarity within Portland’s LGBTQ+ community.
Amanda Lepore: A Trailblazing Icon
Lepore, who has been celebrated internationally for her work in fashion, modeling, and music, has also become a powerful symbol of resilience and trans visibility. Known for her glamorous style and unapologetic authenticity, she has paved the way for countless LGBTQ+ individuals to embrace their identity with pride.
Her appearance in Portland brought excitement to attendees, many of whom view her as a role model in both the creative and queer communities.
Advice for Younger Generations
During the event, Lepore shared words of encouragement for younger members of the trans and queer community.
“Stay in the queer lifestyle… They support us. It’s just the smart thing to do. It’s more important to have a community, I think. Stick with your own kind and it just makes you stronger,” she said.
Her message emphasized the importance of solidarity, community building, and finding strength within shared experiences.
Networking and Community Building
The PDX LGBTQ+ Professionals Networking Hour is designed to create more than just a social space. Its mission is to connect individuals across industries, foster mentorship, and highlight professional opportunities while celebrating Portland’s vibrant queer culture.
For many attendees, the event offered a rare chance to combine professional development with community support. Conversations flowed as participants mingled, exchanged ideas, and laid the groundwork for collaborations.
Growing a Portland Tradition
Since its launch, the networking hour has become an increasingly popular gathering point for LGBTQ+ professionals in the city. By blending social connection with professional growth, it reflects the evolving needs of Portland’s queer community — one that values both solidarity and career advancement.
With high-profile guests like Amanda Lepore and partnerships with organizations like the Human Rights Campaign, the event continues to expand its reach and impact.
Staying Connected
Future events from the PDX LGBTQ+ Professionals Networking Hour will be announced through Instagram, giving the community an easy way to stay informed and engaged. Organizers encourage participation from professionals across all industries, regardless of career stage.
For Portland’s LGBTQ+ community, the evening was more than just a party — it was a reminder of the power of visibility, the strength of solidarity, and the importance of building spaces where authenticity and professionalism can thrive side by side.
