There are many different celebrities out there that people look up to. People look up to celebrities because of what they contribute to this world. Many of them have done such courageous things, shared their stories, and helped others. They have helped many get through difficult situations. These celebrities have contributed so much to the world. One important aspect of these people that I admire is that they also are huge advocates of the LGBTQIA+ community. The LGBTQIA+ community is a beautiful community and I am so happy to stand alongside them through thick and thin. This community has accomplished so much, including the right to marry anyone you choose which was legalized in all 50 states in June 2015.One person that has helped us grow and develop is Courtney Act. I look up to Courtney so much and here's why:

Courtney Act

Shane Jenek(aka Courtney Act) is one of the most intelligent people I know. He first rose to fame back in 2003 when he competed in Australian Idol. First, he auditioned as himself, Shane, and didn't make the cut. The next day, he auditioned as his drag persona, Courtney Act and got in. Courtney made it all the way through to the semi finals. Courtney Act became the biggest household drag name in Australia along with Dame Edna. Courtney also competed on RuPaul's Drag Race Season 6, rose to international fame and finished as a joint runner up with Adore Delano. I look up to Courtney not solely based on the fact that she has a powerful singing voice, is fishy(which means really pretty and looks like a biological woman), and has Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve and Talent. I look up to Courtney because of everything she has contributed to the world.

Junkeee

Courtney is a foreign correspondent for the news site Junkee. Courtney has taught us the history of gun control. Courtney weeded through America's History with Weed. Courtney taught us more about the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras which is such a beautiful event that is held every year. These videos have given me more insight about their history, plus each of these videos have provided comic relief. She went in full drag to a Trump Rally, a Hillary Clinton Fundraiser, Women's March in Washington, and Trump's inauguration. She interviewed thousands of people that she didn't necessarily agree with but tried to understand their views on politics. Watching those videos opened my eyes about the world and what is really going on.

Courtney toured practically every country in the world and sang her heart out to all the people that adore her. She has toured with one woman shows. She was the first drag queen to perform with the symphany orchestra. She put out tons of beautiful songs including Rub Me Wrong (2004), Welcome to Disgraceland (2010), Ugly (2015), and a rendition of Stayin Alive by the Bee Gee's. Sometimes, I like harmonizing her rendition and the original by the Bee Gee's when I am bored. They both harmonize perfectly but I prefer Courtney's slow ballad rendition better. She also got the privilege to interview many of the star striking celebrities on the Grammy's Red Carpet this year and has performed with Miley Cyrus in the 2015 Video Music Awards. I have been a huge fan of Courtney for years and these are the key points to why she is one of the most influential people this world has to offer. Courtney has done so much for this world and the LGBTQIA+ community. She is a huge advocate for our rights in America; plus, what's even more inspiring is that she was born in Brisbane, Australia. HOW AMAZING IS THAT?? She is not even from the United States but knows much more about this country than 95% of the United States population! I thank Courtney for being such a brave person by being so involved with Junkee. Interviewing people and going to these events IN FULL DRAG is such a bold and brave thing to accomplish. As a holiday present, my mom let me choose to go to any show VIP. I chose to meet Courtney Act. I am 18 so now I can go into any show that doesn't require a purchase of an alcoholic beverage. I chose to meet Courtney first out of everyone because of how inspiring she is as a person. She is the kindest person I have ever met so far. To be honest, I have never met a person as warm and engaging as her. I am meeting her again in a month and I am so excited to get the privilege to talk to Courtney after her show (and give her a gift this time!) Courtney Act is one of the most successful artists out there and everything Courtney has contributed to this world is absolutely inspiring

Yes, this is me when I met Courtney. I was so nervous that my face was bright red in this. This day was one of the best days of my life (even though I didn't talk much because I was so starstruck) and I cannot wait to meet Courtney again!Fun fact: I am meeting her 2 weeks before my birthday as my birthday celebration! Courtney, thank you for being you and for everything that you do! I have so much admiration, love, and respect for you♥.

Love,

Staci xxx