From survival to leadership
From margins to power
OUR Story Institute uplifts LGBTQIA+ communities by centering Black and trans women of color and building pathways to opportunity, stability, and civic leadership.
Make an impact that strengthens lives and transforms communities. Join us in building powerful initiatives rooted in leadership, opportunity, and collective progress.
Launching in 2026, OUR Story Institute is building the partnerships, programs, and pathways that support stability, visibility, and leadership across LGBTQIA+ communities — centering Black and trans women of color.
Our story is power. Our leadership is the future.
Our Mission
OUR Story Foundation exists to empower LGBTQIA+ individuals — particularly Black and trans women of color — by expanding access to leadership development, trusted resources, and community-centered opportunities that strengthen long-term stability and civic participation. We believe the people most impacted by inequity should also be the ones leading change, shaping solutions, and defining their own futures.
Ascension (Flagship Program)
Ascension is the flagship program of OUR Story Institute — a 12-week guided experience designed to support trans women as they move from survival to stability and into leadership.
Through structured curriculum, community support, and access to trusted resources, participants build the tools needed to navigate housing, employment, wellness, and personal growth with confidence.
Ascension is not one-size-fits-all. It meets participants where they are and supports them in building a path forward on their own terms.
Founding Phase | Organizational Development
OUR Story Institute is currently in its founding phase, building the infrastructure needed to launch programs and partnerships that expand opportunity, stability, and leadership within LGBTQIA+ communities — centering Black and trans women of color.
Our current priorities include:
• Developing governance structure and founding board leadership
• Developing strategic partnerships with community organizations
• Designing pilot leadership and resource navigation programs
• Building a trusted referral network of service providers
• Preparing for our initial program launch
We are actively connecting with organizations, advocates, and community leaders who share our commitment to strengthening support systems, expanding leadership opportunities, and building a more equitable future for LGBTQIA+ communities.
about the Founder
OUR Story Institute was founded by Epiphany Kali, a community leader, entertainer, and advocate dedicated to expanding opportunity and visibility for LGBTQIA+ communities — particularly Black and trans women of color.
Through years of community engagement, public leadership, and cultural visibility, Epiphany recognized the need for a structured model that connects individuals to trusted resources, leadership development, and pathways toward long-term stability and empowerment.
Community Partnerships
OUR Story Institute is building a network of partners committed to expanding opportunity, stability, and leadership across LGBTQIA+ communities — centering Black and trans women of color.
By working alongside trusted organizations, advocates, and service providers, we aim to strengthen access to housing, healthcare, workforce opportunities, and civic leadership pathways.
Connect With Us
If you’re interested in partnering with OUR Story Institute, learning more about our work, or supporting leadership opportunities within LGBTQIA+ communities, we’d love to hear from you.