Meet the Interns: Bryce Santos-Fegers
(HIV Advocacy Intern)

1. Tell us a little about yourself…

Hey family! I’m Bryce Santos-Fegers. I am 22 years gay man living with HIV since the age of 19. I’m LatinX half Puerto Rican and half German attending Seminole State College as a second year Sociology student. I will transfer to University of Central Florida in pursuit of my Bachelor’s Degree. I also spent a year at Marymount Manhattan College in New York where I studied musical theater and got the pleasure of enjoying a curriculum that gravitates around daily dance class, acting techniques, and singing. Singing and theater are great passions of mine, alongside working for myself, the occasional energy healing for close friends, and daily yoga practice. Namaste! I am also experienced in the intersectionality of HIV and substance abuse, sex work, homelessness, mental health, and at-risk youth.

2. Why are you involved with LGBTQ activism?

The love for my LGBTQ family drives me! I want to be part of the change and accomplish the great things that we deserve! When same-sex marriage was legalized in the United States, I remember feeling like anything in the world is possible for us and in Florida this was a huge win for Equality Florida. I still haven’t lost that feeling, and for things to change I believe us Millennials have to get involved. I’ve witnessed how hard work and commitment can influence policy. As part of the LGBTQ community I believe that giving back and fighting for those who can’t is the only way to move forward.

3. Why did you want to intern at Equality Florida?

Equality Florida is the only organization in Florida that currently works on HIV Advocacy, as someone living with HIV, I have experienced the need for education and policy change at the state level. They bring the conversation directly to the people and work tirelessly to create change. In my eyes, that is real influence and I want to be part of that change. The United States is in a fragile political state and I think this is a unique opportunity to bring my passion and life experience to an organization that fights for equality for everyone.

4. What are your plans after you graduate?

After I graduate I plan to continue pushing for social equality in the United States. I feel very strongly about this being my purpose in life. There are many other dreams and goals in my artistic life I will focused my energy on once I graduate. Later on I plan on doing a Master’s Degree focusing on Social Change and Healing Through the Arts.