If that’s not enough, Pendarvis has also been acknowledged by many local and regional organizations.  This includes being named “Person of The Year” by Go Gay DC, receiving multiple Lifetime Achievements Awards, accepting special recognition as a “Capital Pride Hero” and participating in the annual Capital Pride Parade, and becoming a finalist for Washington’s highest honor - the prestigious Mayor's Arts Award!

Today, Pendarvis is widely known to a legion of fans as the “Goddess of DC,“ “The High Priestess of Love,” “Queen of the Shameless Plug,” and “Father of Five and Mother to Many.”  Each of these monikers represents a unique slice of the Pendarvis lifestyle.  

Below, you have the opportunity to explore many of the milestones Pendarvis has enjoyed so far.  The list is long, varied, and filled with fun and memorable moments,  Yet, each unique entry represents a stepping stone to the iconic figure fans now love, respect, and adore!

Select from the two options below.

Rayceen Pendarvis begins a longstanding professional association with Black Lesbian and Gay Pride Day (more commonly known today as DC BLACK PRIDE).  The newly established community festival proudly carried the theme “Let’s All Come Together.”  As the festival’s comical host, Pendarvis had the wonderful honor of presiding over the event’s “On Stage” segment.  The inaugural festival was officially presented by DC Black Lesbian and Gay Pride Day, Inc. and held on the historic Banneker Field in Washington, DC. 

In the years that followed, Pendarvis continued to host segments of the annual affair and even served on the organization's Board of Directors.  This unique partnership allowed Pendarvis to directly impact the organization’s growth and development on stage as well as behind the scenes.  Today, Rayceen Pendarvis continues to maintain a professional association with DC BLACK PRIDE and has worked with the organization in various capacities for more than twenty-five years.

Rayceen Pendarvis becomes a founding member of the dance music trio Gangster Queens with an Attitude.  Along with fellow group members Mikal and Marshall, the trio worked hard at developing their act, and eventually earned the respect of music industry insiders.  Before long, the dance music “QUEENS” had secured the services of a professional manager, and also negotiated a recording contract with Mix Records.  By 1994, the group had successfully recorded their first single and were proud to launch their promotional tour of the East Coast club circuit. 

Rayceen Pendarvis begins a longstanding professional association with the winter ski getaway that would ultimately come to be known as Winter Explosion, and later come to be known as Winter Meltdown.  The highly anticipated annual excursions began with a small group of Same Gender Loving African-American men and women who attended the inaugural event in 1995.  Attendees experienced a fun and unique winter break at a wonderful ski lodge in the mountains of upstate New York.  What initially started as a small group, eventually grew exponentially, with organizers annually hosting over one thousand people for a weekend of fun, entertainment, education and relaxation.  Guests happily arrived from various national and international locations, with special round-trip transportation being provided from New York City, Newark, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC.   

For over a decade, organizers of the winter retreat – Don Johnson, James Saunders, and JT Mosley – collaborated to plan a weekend of exciting activities, including live music performances, fashion shows, themed dances, worship services, and much more.  So popular were the annual events, organizers repeatedly booked high profile celebrities to serve as the main headliner each year, including national recording artists Patti LaBelle, Chaka Khan, Jennifer Holliday, Vesta Williams, Alyson Williams, CeCe Peniston, Martha Wash, Regina Belle, Faith Evans, Fantasia, Ledisi, and many others.

Pendarvis would go on to have a 15-year association with Winter Meltdown, and proudly serve as its resident Host.  

The 1996 installment was presented by Ebony Pyramid Entertainment and held in Binghamton, New York.

Rayceen Pendarvis receives the prestigious Welmore Cook Award, which was presented at a ceremony held at the Black Lesbian and Gay Pride Awards Reception.  The awards ceremony aimed to recognize exemplary LGBT African-American’s who have demonstrated true dedication to uplifting and advancing the Black LGBT community.

The esteemed Welmore Cook Award is presented annually to two members of the local Black LGBT community for "outstanding leadership."  The honor is proudly bestowed in the name of Dr. Welmore Alfred Cook (1924-1992) - co-founder and Executive Director of Black Lesbian & Gay Pride Day, which is now known as DC BLACK PRIDE.  

The festivities were presented by Black Lesbian and Gay Pride, Inc., and held at the Radisson Barcelo Hotel in Washington, DC.

Rayceen Pendarvis begins a long-standing professional association with SongMaster BGL Cruise.  Each year, the professional staff plan a variety of fun excursions to an array of exotic locations.  Guests are typically treated to a variety of on-board events, and also have a unique selection of activities waiting for them at various destination locations.  While the festivities are specifically catered to the Black LGBT Community, guests are always encouraged to invite family members, friends, colleagues, and more.  Everyone is welcomed to JOIN THE FUN & UNITE AS ONE! 

Established in 1998 by SongMaster Entertainment and Travel, excursions are routinely billed as a place “where old friends reunite, new ones are made, love is found, and romance is cultivated.”

Pendarvis would go on to have a 15+ year association with SongMaster as its on-board Entertainment Host.  The veteran emcee consistently strives to give guests a one-of-a-kind experience to help ensure they return home with a BOATLOAD of WONDERFUL MEMORIES!

Rayceen Pendarvis receives the Marvin E. Young Award at the Us Helping Us Celebration of Life Reception. The annual awards ceremony traditionally recognizes recipients for outstanding volunteer support to address the problem of HIV/AIDS in the Black community.

Us Helping Us, People Into Living, Inc. serves as a local HIV/AIDS charity dedicated to improving the health and well-being of Black gay men through innovative programs and services.  Marvin E. Young (1960-1995) was a beloved former member of the renown organization.

The festivities were presented by Us Helping Us, People Into Living, Inc., and held at the City Museum in Washington, DC.

Rayceen Pendarvis achieves the unique distinction of officially being elected one of Washington’s first openly gay Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner’s.

Throughout the two-year term (2007-2008), Pendarvis, who was elected using the birth name Raymond Chandler, presided over Single Member District 5B03, located within the city's northeast quadrant.  Pendarvis took full advantage of the newly invested powers by repeatedly advocating for citizens of the Brentwood neighborhood and surrounding areas.  Many hot button issues received significant press during the two-year term and repeatedly put the newly elected Commissioner’s name in the media spotlight.

Rayceen Pendarvis is honored by a large gathering of entertainment colleagues, friends, and adoring fans at the annual Spirit Of Light Awards.  Presented by Mascara Illusion, the awards ceremony aimed to recognize recipients for “lighting a path for the greater LGBTQ community of Washington, D.C. to follow.”  The reception also served as a benefit for Transgender Health Empowerment, Inc. 

In tribute to Pendarvis, host and fellow entertainer Tony “And I Thank You” Nelson stated, “We have a big show, and it can’t be anything else but a big show, because Rayceen, not trying to be funny, you are a big big individual!  Am I right?  YOU ARE A BIG BIG INDIVIDUAL!  You have engulfed us with your charm, with your humor, with your wit, but most importantly with your love for so many years,  FOR SO MANY YEARS, and I want to say THANK YOU SO MUCH…

Rayceen Pendarvis co-founds the charity fundraiser ultimately known as J.E.R.R.Y.  The philanthropic endeavor thrived for several years and ultimately raised thousands of dollars for carefully designated causes.  

Initially established in collaboration with Jamil Fletcher and Yarde' Noir, the benefactors were later expanded to include Ernest McCarley and Abdur 'Rahim' Briggs.  All five participants (pictured above) were represented by one letter in the charity's name (Jamil - center, Ernest - left, Raymond - right, “Rahim” - top, Yarde' - bottom).  Proceeds from the annual fundraisers were originally presented to Transgender Health Empowerment Inc. and later donated to The Wanda Alston House Foundation. 

Rayceen Pendarvis makes a debut cameo appearance on the very popular television show Drag City: DC.  Pendarvis appears during a segment filmed at the annual Al-Sura White Attire Affair, for which the veteran emcee served as host.   Al-Sura’s lavish affair was billed as the largest HIV/AIDS prevention social marketing event in America that specifically targets its efforts toward African-Americans.  

The portion of the television show featuring Pendarvis was filmed at the Doubletree Hotel in Washington, DC.

Rayceen Pendarvis has the wonderful opportunity to serve as the headlining performer for the unique one-person show Rayceen Pendarvis - Standing Room Only, "Bridging Our Pain Through Comedy."  The show was billed as “a fun-filled evening of comedy.”

The special event was co-hosted by PrivateBrothas and held at Donnell's Lounge in Washington, DC.

Rayceen Pendarvis hosts the premiere of The Ask Rayceen Show.  The show would ultimately go on to become a very popular free, monthly, live entertainment event held on first Wednesdays (March-November).  Future installments would routinely showcase various live performances, panel discussions, interviews, improv comedy, games, and much more.

The show would ultimately be housed in various venues, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library,

Lĭv Nightclub, and the Human Rights Campaign Equality Center.

The premiere installment was held at the Arleigh and Roberta Burke Theatre within the US Naval Heritage Center in Washington, DC.

Rayceen Pendarvis is commissioned to appear in the theatrical play Boi, Pull Your Pants Up!  The hard-hitting, intense, graphic, and candid, theater production was based on William Caldwell’s acclaimed book of the same name.  Inspired by real life events experienced by Caldwell and others, the play aimed to give audience members a wonderful evening of provocative theater while also teaching some very important lessons about sex. 

Co-presented by Al-Sura and Will C. Productions, the play was held at the the Takoma Park Auditorium in Takoma Park, Maryland.

Rayceen Pendarvis appears on the cover of SWERV magazine.  The cover story focuses on the Ballroom/House community and also features fellow cover models Robbie St. Laurent (left), David Ultima-Xtravaganza (right), and the iconic Tracey Africa (top).

In January 2017, the 10th year anniversary issue of SWERV magazine was released, and Editor-At-Large Yarde' Noir stated that the coveted “Ballroom” cover story had become his most memorable issue.  Serving as SWERV’s Fashion Editor at the time, Noir presided over every detail concerning the issue, which was originally conceived from an idea proposed by Pendarvis.   Noir continued by stating “This issue has probably become our most Iconic issue in our 10-year existence.”  The revered fashion stylist concluded by stating, “When the issue dropped it was so well received, not just by [our] readers but more importantly the Ballroom community…”

Indeed, the Spring 2013 edition of SWERV has become a much sought after COLLECTOR’S ITEM and remains a treasured item for those who are fortunate to own a copy.

Rayceen Pendarvis is commissioned to appear in the theater production of The Deadly 7, a stage play presented by the DC Capital Fringe Festival.  The play takes place inside a church headed by a hypocritical pastor who preaches that homosexuality is a certain path to hell.  The show's producer, Alyi’nah “SimplyNay” Ford, hoped to share several profoundly powerful message with her work, but most importantly wanted to convey one main theme, “If Jesus could rise from the tomb then certainly it’s time for people to rise up out of the closet.”  

The play was co-presented by Ten 14 Productions and STAND Omnimedia and held at the Warehouse Theater in Washington, DC.

Rayceen Pendarvis ventures into the publishing industry by agreeing to write "Ask Rayceen," a recurring advice column for SWERV magazine, a lifestyle periodical targeting LGBT African-Americans.  

Pendarvis debuted with a captivating piece titled “Cougar Love.”  This was followed by equally unique articles, including “The Snow Queen,” “Thick, Fine, And Over 50!,” “Cyber Love or Cyber Lust,” and “All Queens Don't Wear A Crown!”  

Today, Pendarvis still writes on a semi-quarterly basis for SWERV and also writes for several other magazines, including Q Virginia, The Unleashed Voice, and EFNIKS Media.

Rayceen Pendarvis is honored with inclusion in the HIV/AIDS photography exhibit OUR HEROES.  With over 200 black-and-white images, the collection chronicles the people, places, events and things, that have made a significant impact in the fight against HIV/AIDS within the nation's capital.  From December 02, 2013 until January 05, 2014, the exhibit was displayed at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in Washington, DC.  After the initial display and subsequent tour, the complete collection was permanently housed at the MLK Library.  

OUR HEROES was originally conceived and created by lead organizer Wallace Corbett and several members of the Max Robinson Center Advisory Board who consider it to be the largest display of its kind in the United States.

Rayceen Pendarvis begins serving as the resident host of B.R.U.H.S. (Book Reading Uplifts His Spirit).  The series of monthly literary events  are loosely categorized as an African-American LGBT book club.  Held on first Mondays (February through November), the events are designed to give panelists and participants an opportunity to discuss the literary work of African-American LGBT authors, as well as, the cinematic works of African-American LGBT filmmakers.  Although the B.R.U.H.S. acronym suggests that the events are specifically for men, from time to time, the professional works of women celebrated as well.  

B.R.U.H.S. was originally conceived by Turner Freeman (pictured above - far right) and Darrell Johnson (pictured above - far left) who commissioned Pendarvis to serve as the resident host.  Pendarvis (pictured above - center with author Otis Randolf) continued in this capacity until 2016, at which point the veteran emcee began focusing on other projects.

Officially sponsored by The DC Public Library system, the monthly events for 2014 through 2016 were all held at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in Washington, DC. 

The Ask Rayceen Show – hosted by Rayceen Pendarvis – debuts at its new venue, Lĭv Nightclub - housed within the legendary Bohemian Caverns Complex (pictured above).  

Located in the heart of the Historic U Street Corridor (once known as "Black Broadway") the area is considered one of the city's most vibrant nightlife hot spots, making it an excellent new location for The Ask Rayceen Show.

During the show’s residency at Lĭv Nightclub, it truly came into its own.  In addition to the one-of-a-kind shows patrons had become use to, they now also had the marvelous opportunity to order food an drinks from the club's unique Cajun menu.  This in itself was a fantastic draw that continued to add to the unique experience patrons received, and contributed to making The Ask Rayceen Show a monthly favorite among locals.

Rayceen Pendarvis receives the prestigious Red-Era Ballroom Legendary Award for outstanding community service.  The award was bestowed during the Ballroom Red Era (1986-1990) Icon Awards & Honorary Dinner, which was officially part the 5-day Master BallStar Weekend.  Organizers define the “Red Era” as “the era when Ballroom expanded out of New York to Philadelphia, Baltimore and DC; new houses were established; and, many elders were lost to AIDS.”

Pendarvis, pictured above with Shannon Garçon (left) and Karen “CoverGIRL” Diaz (center), is a legendary member of the House of Pend’avis.  The honor was graciously accepted on behalf of the trailblazing founders and innovative current members who continue to carry on the illustrious tradition of the international ballroom scene.

The festivities were partially sponsored by NY Black Pride and held at the Holiday Inn in New York City.

Rayceen Pendarvis hosts the premiere of Rayceen, Fix Me Up!  The new spin-off from The Ask Rayceen Show billed itself as “a viable alternative to traditional dating platforms Match.com, Jack'd, Grindr and Adam4Adam.  Pendarvis continued to preside over the festivities for several months, and always relied on a unique combination of “personal experience” and “street smarts” to provide guests with a wide-variety of dating advice.  The unique services provided to guests were certainly not available at traditional nightlife venues. 

The inaugural Rayceen, Fix Me Up! was held at Lĭv Nightclub, located in the historic U Street Corridor in Washington, DC.  In 2017, the popular segment was re-established as a standalone series of monthly events during the three month Winter Hiatus of The Ask Rayceen Show.

Rayceen Pendarvis graces the cover of Metro Weekly magazine for the very first time.  The in-dept article – titled “Spiritual Engagement” – focuses very heavily on the native Washingtonian’s personal life.

The article opened with the question “Who is Rayceen Pendarvis?”  Pendarvis responded “A child of God who cares about my community.”  Indeed, echoing that theme, one of the most memorable quotes from the article came when Pendarvis stated, “No matter where we go in life, take a moment to look back and pull someone else up.  Whether it is to give them a kind word, a warm meal, an old coat, or just to sit and have a great conversation.   Pulling somebody up.  That’s what’s important.”  

The revealing and informative five page article ended on a high note, with Pendarvis most appropriately declaring,

“Every day, I leave my door, and I’m like, “All right, world, it’s showtime!”

Without a doubt, those who were lucky enough to secure a copy will certainly consider it a treasured piece of Pendarvis memorabilia.

Rayceen Pendarvis has the honor of moderating the first ever LGBT panel discussion on transgender health disparity titled “On Being Human: Reflections on Trans Health and Wellness.”

The program brought together five leading trans* activists and researchers who collectively shared personal experiences about trans* issues, via the view points of health, research, employment, law, and culture.   

The first of its kind event was held at The National Institutes of Health Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Bethesda, Maryland.

Rayceen Pendarvis is honored to receive the esteemed Ballroom Vanguard Award, which was bestowed during the 18th Annual NYC Black Pride Heritage Awards.  The grand reception severed as a kickoff event for the five-day annual NYC Black Pride multicultural festival, which traditional celebrates LGBT and Transgender communities of color.  The influential honor was shared with several members of The House of Pend'avis, who graciously joined Pendarvis in receiving the honor.  

The festivities were co-sponsored by Gay Men of African Descent along with AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and held at the Schomburg Center For Research In Black Culture in New York city. 

Rayceen Pendarvis is honored to receive the coveted Avis Pend'avis Angel Award, which was proudly presented during The Gay Men's Health Crisis 24th Annual Latex Ball.  The award is bestowed annually in honor of the legendary Avis Pend'avis - founder of The House of Pend’avis.  Founded in 1979, the iconic institution celebrated its 25th Anniversary as Pendarvis was being given the treasured honor.  

In an interview with local media, Pendarvis stated, “My most cherished award is the Angel Award, in honor of my mentor and mother Avis [Pend'Avis]…”  Pendarvis also reached out to a legion of social media fans, writing “I know AVIS is looking down with all my sisters and brothers smiling.  I stand on their shoulders!!!” 

Widely considered the most successful and largest ball in the world, the annual Latex Ball is lauded as the most highly anticipated function of the international ballroom scene.  

The festivities were held at Terminal Five in the midtown Manhattan area of New York City.

Rayceen Pendarvis begins a long-standing association with the annual OutWrite LGBT Book Festival.  As the organization's resident host for the annual Quick and Dirty workshop, Pendarvis (pictured above with legendary author James Earl Hardy) presides over a lightening round of literary readings by various LGBT authors.  In addition, Pendarvis is often tapped to conduct interviews and moderate various literary discussions. 

The annual event is officially sponsored by The DC Center for the LGBT Community and held at the organization’s headquarters in The Frank D. Reeves Center of Municipal Affairs in Washington, DC.

Rayceen Pendarvis has the wonderful honor of receiving the Distinguished Service Award, which was bestowed by The DC Center for the LGBT Community during the 10th Annual DC Center Fall Reception.  The lavish affair traditionally honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the LGBT Community within the greater metropolitan area of Washington, DC. 

The awards reception was presented by The DC Center for the LGBT Community and held on the roof deck of the Warner Building in Washington, DC.

Rayceen Pendarvis serves as host of Paris Is Burning: Celebrating 25 Years – The Book… The Film… The Ball.  The special event aimed to celebrate the silver anniversary of the iconic award-winning documentary Paris Is Buring by director Jennie Livingston.  The beloved film tells the story of gay and transgender African-Americans and Latinos in New York City who respond to various challenges with courage and creativity.

The special screening was followed by a book signing with author Dr. Lucas Hilderbrand.  This was followed by Pendarvis moderating a panel/Q&A session with cast members Sol Williams Pendavis and Freddie Pendavis.  

The evening closed with Pendarvis hosting the Paris Ball DC and awards ceremony, which featured a legendary panel of judges and music provided by DJ Vjuan Allure.  

All events were co-sponsored by Team Rayceen and presented in association with Reel Affirmations - one of the largest LGBT film festivals (in terms of attendance) in the United States.  The festivities were held at the Human Rights Campaign Equality Center in Washington, DC.

Rayceen Pendarvis is commissioned to participate in the WRAP IT UP safe-sex initiative.  Originally established in 2014 by Darrell Cortez of Chrome Eye Creative Services LLC, the charitable photography campaign is designed to promote continuous awareness of HIV/AIDS prevention through education that specifically targets communities of color, through eye-catching imagery.

Rayceen Pendarvis is commissioned to teach a continuing education class for DC Licensed Nail Practitioners titled “HONEY, ITS TIME TO PAMPER YOURSELF: NAIL CARE 101.”  

Also in attendance were fashion and beauty icons Tabatha Coffey – star of the television show Salon Takeover, and Reggie Wells – long-time stylist for superstar Oprah Winfrey.  The class and all associated events were officially part of the 2016 Celebrity Beauty Symposium.

Rayceen Pendarvis (pictured above with Tabatha Coffey) is a professionally licensed Senior Nail Technician lovingly presiding over the professional nail both of V.S.L. HAIR DESIGN.  Pendarvis delights in regularly providing clients with french & regular manicures, pedicures, nail art designs‬, natural nails, fill-ins, tips,‬ gel‬ manicures, acrylic nails, silk‬ wraps, and much more.  V.S.L. HAIR DESIGN is conveniently located in the “gay friendly” neighborhood of Dupont Circle in Washington, DC.  With more than 20 years of experience, Pendarvis was adequately equipped to serve as a Symposium Instructor.

The continuing education class and all other associated events were sponsored by Bennett Career Institute, and held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC.

During the show’s 5th season, The Ask Rayceen Show – hosted by Rayceen Pendarvis – began its second tenure at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in Washington, DC.  

The public venue continued to serve as a vital resource for local community organizations. Pendarvis, along with fans of The Ask Rayceen Show were once again grateful to call it home (especially after the sudden closing of Lĭv Nightclub, the show’s previous venue).

Rayceen Pendarvis begins co-hosting several episodes of The Morning Tea Show.  Pendarvis and the show’s regular host, Demark Manigo, preside over several installments of the popular online radio show during the Spring and Summer months of 2016.  Topics of discussion varied from show to show.

The Morning Tea Show primarily focuses on empowerment, advice, and motivation.  The radio show is produced by National Youth Pride Services, the fastest growing movement for Black LGBTQ youth and young adults in America.

Rayceen Pendarvis is officially appointed to the Advisory Board of The Al Sura Foundation as a TAF Ambassador. 

Al Sura Advisory Board Members are expected to encompass the values set forth by the organization and posses the knowledge and expertise to continue it’s mission.

The Al Sura Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity.  The organization works to enhance, expand, and promote communication, education, and cultural awareness, through service, advocacy, and empowerment. 

Rayceen Pendarvis receives the Capital Pride Hero Award during the 2016 Capital Pride Alliance Heroes Gala. The event honors dedicated individuals whose body of work has had a positive, significant, and lasting impact on the LGBTQ+ community. 

Capital Pride Alliance is a non-profit organization devoted to serving the needs of the LGBTA community and its partners through educational events, entertainment, community outreach, and celebrations of diversity. 

The gala was presented by Hilton Worldwide, hosted by the Historical Society of Washington, D.C., and held at the iconic Carnegie Library at Mt. Vernon Square in Washington, DC. 

The legendary life and career of Rayceen Pendarvis is celebrated with an honorary float in the Capital Pride Parade.  

As a 2016 Capital Pride Hero Honoree, Pendarvis delighted the crowd with a powerhouse presence as only the "Goddess of DC" can.  

The landmark event is routinely attended by tens of thousands of people each year and is considered the highlight of the annual Celebration of Pride in the Nation's Capital – one of the largest Pride Celebrations in North America.  The official theme of the 41st annual parade was “Make Magic Happen.” 

Capital Pride Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the needs of the LGBTA community and its partners through educational events, entertainment, community outreach, and celebrations of diversity. 

The festivities were organized by Capital Pride Alliance, presented by Marriott Rewards, and held in the surrounding neighborhoods of the Dupont Circle area of Washington, DC. 

Rayceen Pendarvis begins serving as a contributing writer and DC Correspondent for The Unleashed Voice magazine.  Pendarvis debuted in the magazine’s PRIDE issue with an article titled “Doing The Work of PRIDE.”  

Today, Pendarvis continues to write articles for The Unleashed Voice on a semi quarterly basis, and also serves as the magazine’s DC Correspondent. 

The Unleashed Voice magazine aims to highlight and acknowledge businesses, services, and products that warmly extend open support and fellowship to the LGBTQ Community.

Rayceen Pendarvis is commissioned to give the keynote address for ManDate 757.  The carefully crafted speech was titled “Community Mobilization and Cultivating Gay Culture.”  The presentation was preceded by a complimentary brunch buffet and other events. 

ManDate is a monthly discussion group typically held in the informal setting of a participant’s home.  Discussion topics are generated by the group and focus on a wide range of issues.

The festivities were held at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel in Norfolk, Virginia.

Rayceen Pendarvis begins serving as a contributing writer for UNITE Virginia magazine (currently known as Q Virginia). Pendarvis debuted in the magazine’s Election issue with an article titled “Embracing Joy,” and continues to write articles for the magazine on a semi quarterly basis.  

Q Virginia magazine provides the LGBTQ community and its allies with a unified voice in Virginia’s evolving cultural, economic and social narrative.  Although generally focused on a variety of issues, its primary mission is to promote equality through storytelling.

Rayceen Pendarvis begins a long-standing association with Reel Affirmations International LGBTQ Film Festival.  As as the festival’s resident host, Pendarvis delights the crowd by introducing various films and presiding over filmmaker Q&A's and panel discussions.  

Reel Affirmations screenings routinely provide a wide-variety of new and exciting international, documentary, short, and feature films from all over the world.  The event ultimately aims to be a place of comfort and affirmation for all in attendance, especially those who never see themselves properly represented within society.

Film screening for the annual event are typically split between two great venues, The Gala Hispanic Theatre at Tivoli and The Human Rights Campaign Equality Center, both located in Washington, DC.

Rayceen Pendarvis is voted “Best Clergy” in the 15th Annual 2016 Washington Blade Best of Gay DC Awards. The highly competitive competition culminated with approximately 25,000 votes being submitted by Washington Blade readers for their favorite organizations, businesses, and individuals in 99 categories.   

In response to the honor, Pendarvis posted on Twitter, “I'm humbled to have been voted Best Clergy in 2016 Best of Gay DC awards. I may not be ordained, but I consider my audiences to be my congregations to whom I can preach about KINDNESS, COMPASSION, RESPECT, and LOVE. Congratulations to everyone else who won this year.”

The Washington Blade is an award-winning LGBT news source with a large online following.  Readers locally and around the world rely on its unmatched coverage of gay issues, which have culminated in it earning the moniker “Newspaper of Record for the LGBT Community.” 

The ceremony was presented by Whitman-Walker Health and held at Town Danceboutique in Washington, DC.

Rayceen Pendarvis participates in The Mannequin Challenge, a viral Internet video trend where people remain frozen in action like mannequins while a moving camera films them.  

It is believed the phenomenon was originally started by students in Jacksonville, Florida, just a couple of months earlier on October 12, 2016.  The initial posting inspired works by other groups, especially professional athletes and sports teams, who have posted increasingly complex and elaborate videos.  

Pendarvis took part in the challenge at a Aaron Myers jazz concert held at Mr. Henry’s in Washington, DC. 

Rayceen Pendarvis is commissioned to host a special edition of Inside Out, a radio show dedicated to addressing the under-served needs of the LGBT community.  Pendarvis was very pleased to welcome two very special guests, psychotherapist Lanada Williams - who discussed mental health issues, and DC council member Robert White (pictured above - second from the left) - who discussed politics, LGBTQ issues, and the future of America under a Trump presidency.  The topics of discussion all fell under the banner “Getting and Staying Healthy.”

Pendarvis was also joined by comedian Curt Mariah - who recapped some of the good news from 2016, and Zar - Co-Executive Producer of The Ask Rayceen Show, who served as the show’s guest announcer.

Inside Out bills itself as the voice for alternative programming in the Washington metropolitan area, and serves as DC's only LGBT FM radio show.  The program airs every Tuesday from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm EST on WPFW (89.3 FM or online at www.wpfw.org).  The radio show routinely tackles tough subjects other shows deem too taboo. 

The show was recorded in WPFW studios in Washington, DC. 

Rayceen Pendarvis becomes the very first influential luminary honored as "Person of The Year" by the online media outlet Go Gay DC.

Go Gay DC is a revolutionary use of new media.  Founded by TJ Flavell, the social platform bills itself as the most popular LGBTQ Meetup Group in the metropolitan area of Washington, DC.  In addition to hosting unique signature events, Go Gay DC also prides itself on keeping the gay community in the know 24/7, both virtually and in person.

Rayceen Pendarvis is commissioned to co-host The Lanada Williams Show.  Pendarvis and the show’s regular host, Lanada Williams, welcomed chef Bryce Fluellen and Farah Tanis, who both shared several tips for eating healthier. 

The Lanada Williams Show is all about relationships and aims to offer listeners accessible advice for family, friends and lovers.  The show airs weekly each Tuesday on BLIS FM.

Rayceen Pendarvis contributes to the Metro Weekly cover story “Dear President Trump.”  The article features several letters written by members of the LGBT community which were specifically addressed to the newly elected president, Donald J. Trump. 

In the article written by Pendarvis, midway it states “I hope that you and members of your administration can appreciate this city and all of its diversity.  There are people from many nations, who have various religions and philosophical views, differing incomes and educational backgrounds, and are of every hue.”  In true Pendarvis fashion, the DC ICON makes sure to advocate for the city’s wide-variety of citizens.

The vast collection of thirty-two letters were published both in print and online formats.  The article was officially titled “Dear President Trump...Letters from the LGBT community to the incoming 45th President of the United States, Donald J. Trump.”

Rayceen Pendarvis begins a long-standing association with Reel Affirmations XTRA: A Monthly LGBT Film Series.  As the organization’s resident host, Pendarvis presides over special film screenings that highlight the work of LGBT filmmakers.  Previously, Pendarvis presided over sporadic Reel Affirmations film screenings, which included a special 25th Anniversary showing of the iconic classic Paris Is Burning.

Reel Affirmations - Washington DC’s International LGBT Film Festival - is one of the largest LGBT film festivals (in terms of attendance) in the United States.  Each month the organization consistently offers new and exciting international, documentary, short, and feature films, as well as panel discussions, filmmaker Q&As, and various celebrations.  At its height, Reel Affirmations has enjoyed being one of the Top 5 LGBT film festivals in the country.

Reel Affirmations monthly film screenings are held at The HRC Equality Center in Washington DC. 

Rayceen Pendarvis serves as a Celebrity Judge for The Team DC Fashion Show & Model Search.  The show featured a wonderful collection of fashions, including swimwear, club wear, underwear and much more.  Attendees were invited to bid for clothing in an effort to help support The Team DC College Scholarship Program for LGBT Student-Athletes.

The event was presented by Team DC, co-sponsored by Town Danceboutique along with Compete Magazine, and held at Town Danceboutique in Washington, DC.  

The Ask Rayceen Show – hosted by Rayceen Pendarvis – begins its sixth season at The HRC Equality Center.  The show’s new home is also located within the same office building as the headquarters for The Human Rights Campaign – America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. 

In its new venue, the show would not only continue to grow and thrive, but would eventually begin to receive national and international exposure via Facebook Live and YouTube video broadcasts.  Fans continue to enjoy the show in person, as well as online, despite their physical location. 

The Ask Rayceen Show is held on first Wednesdays (March through November) at The HRC Equality Center in Washington, DC.

Rayceen Pendarvis has the honor of receiving the Impact Award for LGBTQ Advocacy.  The special award was bestowed at the R. Christian Isaiah Littleton Awards ceremony, which was one of many events held during the

1st Annual Omega Lambda Phi LeaderSHIFT Conference.

The honorary reception and all associated events were presented by Omega Lambda Phi Fraternity Incorporated and held at the Residence Inn Alexandria Old Town South at Carlyle in Alexandria, Virginia. 

Rayceen Pendarvis serves as the star and co-host of The ARTOMATIC 2017 Finalé.  Joining Pendarvis were fellow co-hosts Curt Mariah (pictured above - far left), Tim Trueheart (pictured above - far right), and Krylios Clarke (pictured above - second from left ).  The variety show featured stand-up comedy, live performances, poetry, burlesque, dance, and much more, including music provided by DJ Joe Audio.

The festivities were co-presented by Team Rayceen along with Unite Virginia, and held at a temporary venue in the Crystal City area of Arlington, Virginia.

Rayceen Pendarvis is commissioned to host Capital Trans Pride Day Open Mic and the Closing Ceremony.  The event was one of many held during the annual Capital Trans Pride Day festival.  Each year, the festival aims to bring together members of the Transgender community, allies, colleagues, family, and friends for a day of celebration, workshops, and various panel discussions on a variety of issues important to the Trans community. 

Team Rayceen served as a Gold Sponsor for the event, which was co-presented by Whitman-Walker Health along with Booz Allen Hamilton, and held at the Studio Theatre in Washington, DC.

Rayceen Pendarvis has the wonderful honor of being personally commissioned to host the unique LGBT special edition of Story District – Out/Spoken: Queer, Questioning, Bold and Proud True Stories Through an LGBT Lens.  

Story District is one of the most well-known and respected storytelling organizations in the nation and was named the “gold standard” in storytelling by the Washington Post and also nominated for the 2012 DC Mayor's Arts Awards for Innovation in the Arts. 

The event marked the sixth annual Pride show and was held at the 9:30 Club in Washington, DC.

Rayceen Pendarvis appears as a guest on the television show Good Morning Washington.  Hosted by the show’s Entertainment Reporter Kidd O'Shea, the broadcast also featured AJ King – Vice President of Impulse Group DC.   

The segment was officially titled “Capital Pride DC: LGBTQ Etiquette 101 with AJ King & Rayceen Pendarvis.”  Together, Pendarvis and King taught viewers how to ask members of the LGBTQ community the right questions concerning matters of gender and sexual orientation.  The segment was part of a week-long celebration of Gay Pride Month, with the last segment coinciding with the start of Capital Pride DC.

The show aired on ABC7 News Channel 8 on WJLA-TV in Arlington, Virginia. 

Rayceen Pendarvis appears as a guest on the television show Wake Up Washington.  Hosted by Larry Miller, an Edward R. Murrow award-winning reporter who is pictured above on the left, the broadcast focused on LGBT issues and the upcoming Capital Pride Parade, held later that day.   

The program aired on WUSA-TV ‘s flagship station WUSA 9, which serves the nation’s capital and the surrounding areas.

Rayceen Pendarvis is commissioned to give a workshop presentation and host the entertainment program at the Mayor's Sixth Annual Senior Symposium. The “invitation only” all-day event carried the themed “Enrich, Empower, Engage.”  Pendarvis did just that, with an informative presentation titled “Ask Rayceen: Everything You Want to Know About LGBTQ, But Are Afraid to Ask.”

Mayor Muriel Bowser greeted over 800 Senior Citizens at the free event, which featured dynamic speakers, educational workshops, health screenings, senior resources and additional information from over 80 exhibitors.  Pendarvis was also commissioned to host the event's lunchtime entertainment program which featured classical violinist Roy Hill, singer Quineice, and dancer Faericka. 

The festivities were presented by The D.C. Office on Aging and held at Ballou Senior High School in Washington, DC.

Rayceen Pendarvis begins serving as a contributing writer for EFNIKS Media.  Pendarvis debuted with an article titled “The Legacy of Sylvester,” and continues to write articles for the online magazine on a semi quarterly basis.  

EFNIKS Media is a digital media platform created and curated by and for LGBTQ People of Color.  Through articles, essays, features, videos, short films, podcasts, and social media, EFNIKS (a play on the word “ETHNICS”) provides safe, diverse, and familiar spaces for various intersections of race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and more.

Rayceen Pendarvis begins a new and exciting career endeavor as a legally recognized Wedding Officiate within the city of Washington, DC.  

The unique milestone comes on the heels of Pendarvis winning the Washington Blade Best of Gay DC Readers' Poll for “Best Clergy" in 2016, and also achieving the status of being voted first runner-up for “Best Clergy” in 2017.

To book Pendarvis for your wedding ceremony, contact: AskRayceen@gmail.com 

Rayceen Pendarvis is named a finalist in the 32nd Annual Mayor's Arts Awards.  Pendarvis is specifically acknowledged in the category of Excellence In The Humanities.  The Mayor's Arts Awards are the most prestigious honors conferred on individual artists, teachers, and nonprofit organizations by the city of Washington, DC.

The lavish grand affair was presented by The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities and held at the historic Lincoln Theatre in Washington, DC.

Rayceen Pendarvis is commissioned to host the opening rally for The March For Racial Justice.  The event served as an opportunity to “mobilize organizations, groups and individuals to stand together for racial justice in Washington, DC.”

After the opening rally, participants marched through the streets of Washington chanting “Black Lives Matter” and “Black Women Matter.”  Eventually, everyone gathered at the National Mall for several hours of speeches and presentations, which culminated with high profile speakers Gloria Steinem and Gina Belafonte.

The Opening Rally was held at Lincoln Park in Washington, DC.