b'COVER STORYA LIFE-CHANGING CAMPAIGNWith so many post-CDR achievements, which one stands out for Gender? Definitely the cross-country campaign for Annabelle Cosmetics. I was featured in drugstores across the country!Gender exclaims. Annabelle Cosmetics 2022 Pride theme, Proud Out Loud, encouraged LGBTQ+ people to live as their true selves. Gender produced a video to share how she lives this theme, and Annabelle Cosmetics made a donation to Rainbow Railroada global not-for-profit organization that helps LGBTQ+ people escape persecutionfor every view. But Genders joy in this campaign has a more personal side. I just cant imagine little me walking into a drugstore and seeing a display of this authentically queer individual, living proudly, she reflects. If I had seen that at a younger age, it would have saved me a lot of heartache. To do that for people across the country isjust monumental!WHATS NEXT?Never one to sit on her laurels, Gender continues to explore new business ventures. She scored the lead role of Kaleb/Ivy Diamonds in the upcoming film Stay, set to be released in late 2022 or early 2023. Its a story that I havent seen told on filmabout the inner workings of a drag performers romances, and how those intertwine with daily life, she says.But the future project shes most excited about is all about self-care. Im learning about life-work balance. Ive been so fortunate and blessed to have such an electrifying career. But Ive been working basically nonstop since CDR started airing, explains Gender. I got engaged this year. I need to focus on my personal life and the happiness that comes with it.By taking time out, Gender ensures that she continues to love her drag. But as she notes, taking time off can be challenging for racialized performers. We always feel like we need to continue running. But theres no way to win the race unless you have a little water along the way. 8| QBiz CANADA | Issue 22022'