Let’s get to know lifelong Hampton Roads resident Lola Monroe who was recently crowned Miss Hampton Roads Unity 2019! You may follow her on social media HERE.
Where were you born and raised?
Chesapeake, Va
How long have you lived in Hampton Roads?
29 years
What do you do for money/living?
Professional entertainment and I’m a licensed CNA
How long have you been ‘out’ (if applicable) and who was the hardest person to tell?
The hardest person to tell was my grandfather because he was a pastor. I’m pretty sure he knew before, almost certain that he knew, but we never openly talked about it. I have been out in the gay scene since I was 18.
Who is your LGBTQ hero and why?
My local hero is Raquelle Sheree Colby because she is a someone that I have watched improve over the years. She inspires me daily to live remain humble, resilient, and enchanting.
Is a picture worth a thousand words? Explain your answer.
A picture is definitely worth a thousand words, regardless of if they are one thousand good words or one thousand bad. The same picture can be described as good and bad from two people seeing different stories from the image.
What is the most memorable LGBTQ moment of your life?
My most memorable LGBT moment of my life was last year during Pride when I was interviewed and had my picture featured in the Virginian Pilot. In today’s digital age, most news is on Facebook or the Internet, so it was amazing to see myself in print. My grandmother even saw it! My family and friends have pictures and sometimes it’s a talking point when I meet new people. A lady might stop me and say “Omg your nails are so pretty! Don’t mind me, but do I know you? You look familiar!” It’s opened some doors
On what do you insist upon daily?
Live, Laugh, and Love!
Life is too short to take little struggles too seriously. When I was 10, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and lost 84 lbs in 2 months after not eating. I lost my ability to walk for a year, slept with my feet in ice buckets, crawled throughout the house, only to have a childhood filled with long hospital stays and surgeries. I’ve almost died twice. So every day I have on Earth is a gift, that’s why they call it the present.
I’m also an April Fool’s baby, born on April 1st. A fully blooded Aries and a prank baby at heart, I promise you can get through any struggle with a little laughter and a whole lotta love.
What was your last social media post?
I shared flyers for Tarena DeShay McCray’s Sassy Sunday Brunch at Allure! She teamed up with Soul Sister Food and Catering to create a fun, sassy, and liberating show with delicious soul food!
If you could give your 16 year-old self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Don’t be afraid; you’ll get through! You’ll go through all of the things you were afraid of and then some, but you’ll make it through.
Do you have any suggestions for the local leaders of Hampton Roads’ LGBTQ organizations?
Maybe have more speaking events and community group talks. Shows are fun, but I feel it would help us bridge the gap between our communities.
What is the best aspect of the Hampton Roads LGBTQ community?
Our diversity
Name one thing you would change about the Hampton Roads LGBTQ community?
I would change how separated people feel, end the clique-ishness.
What LGBTQ stereotype annoys you the most?
That all gays are the same. We are not!
What non-LGBTQ issue do you feel most passionate about?
Children being able to express their art freely.
What natural gift would you most like to possess?
The ability have a more infectious and friendly personality.
What quality do you most admire in a person?
Sense of humor
What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally?
I am turned on my shoes, hair, wigs
What is your favorite curse word?
Bitch
Why Hampton Roads?
Because I grew up here. And if we don’t make an effort to better our community, who will?
