2026 NextGen Pride Party
Date and Time
Friday May 8, 2026
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM EDT
Friday, May 8
6:00-9:00 PM
Location
AURA Accessibility Notice Contact: Amanda Cole acole@thinkplexus.org
1242 E. 49th St.
Cleveland, OH
* GPS may take you to 4700 Lakeside Avenue East...don't listen! Go to the 1242 E. 49th to enter the building.
Aura is located in a historic manufacturing building that has been transformed into an event venue. Please note that there is a limited-access elevator available onsite. If you have accessibility needs, questions, or would like support attending the event, we encourage you to reach out to the event organizers in advance so we can help make your experience as smooth and welcoming as possible.
Fees/Admission
Tickets Spots will fill quickly ? this is always one of the most talked-about Young Professionals events of the year. Register now and celebrate the next generation of LGBTQ+ leadership.
$40 Plexus Members
$45 Future Members
Contact Information
Amanda Cole
Send Email
Description
Join Plexus for one of the most exciting nights of the year? the NextGen Celebration, where we honor the 2026 NextGen LGBTQ+ Leaders and bring together a vibrant community of professionals, allies, and changemakers from across Northeast Ohio. This isn't just an awards event, it's a night designed for connection.
A. Kwan, Amanda Kostura, Leslie Johns, Luis Cruz, Melanie Kortyka, SlayIcon Wamego, and Tommy Marzella
Expect a welcoming, high-energy atmosphere where socializing naturally turns into meaningful professional relationships. Whether you're growing your network, celebrating colleagues, or simply looking for a great night out with community, this event is the perfect place to be.
We'll be celebrating the incredible young professionals who are shaping the future of inclusive leadership in our region and we want you there to help cheer them on.
Your ticket includes:
- Complimentary food from Normandy Catering
- Delish sweets provided by Cake Drama
- Cotton candy treats by Cleveland Cotton Candy Machines
- Blessed by the presence of Latrice J-Love Diamond
- Music & beats by DJ Sissy Bunny
- Networking with LGBTQ+ professionals and allies
- Recognition of the 2026 NextGen LGBTQ+ Leaders
- A vibrant Pride season kickoff celebration
What?s New This Year
We've thoughtfully designed elements to support different comfort levels and social styles so everyone can engage in a way that feels right for them.
- Conversation Starters - Easy prompts to help break the ice and spark meaningful conversations.
- Guided Introductions - Light-touch facilitation to help make connections feel more natural and less intimidating.
- Fidget & Sensory Tools - Discreet items available to support focus, comfort, and self-regulation.
- Small Group Connection Options - Opportunities to engage in more intimate, low-pressure group settings.
- Casual, Low-Pressure Activities - Simple ways to connect that don?t rely on traditional networking.
- Recharge Room - A quiet, dimly lit space available throughout the event for anyone who needs a moment to rest and reset.
Special Thanks for our Sponsors & Supporters!
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