Award Winner Kevin Hawkins, a Black gay man from Washington shares his Queer Leadership Journey.
My Story and Journey.
My name is Kevin Hawkins, and I’m a Black gay man with African and Filipino roots, born in Washington, DC, and now based in Barcelona. I am currently Vice President of Design & Research at Monta, an EV charging software company. My journey has taken me across industries and countries, shaping my perspective as both a creative and a leader. Throughout my career, I’ve built and scaled design teams, launched impactful products, led international expansions, and mentored emerging talent.
As a queer leader, my identity has influenced how I approach leadership—with empathy, inclusivity, and a focus on amplifying diverse voices. I know firsthand the challenges of carving out space in industries that haven’t always been welcoming, which has fueled my passion for mentorship and community-building. My work today, whether in product design, education, or events, is about creating opportunities and fostering environments where people—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds—can thrive.
My Work and Passion.
At the heart of my work is a drive to make knowledge and opportunities more accessible. I’m currently developing over9to5, an online business school that will launch by the end of the year. The goal is to help professionals turn their skills into multiple streams of income, ensuring financial independence and career growth. Unlike traditional schools, over9to5 is led by industry practitioners, offering real-world insights that people can apply immediately. I’m inspired by my career that has exposed me to many industries and built my expertise, as I’d like to do the same for others.
I’m also deeply involved in The Common Thread, a supper club in Barcelona that brings together people from different backgrounds—locals, expats, and visitors—for shared experiences that foster genuine connections. For me, this initiative isn’t just about good food and great company; it’s about creating a space where people feel seen, valued, and included.
Whether in education, business, or community-building, I believe in using my platform to uplift others. My work inherently advocates for the LGBTQ+ community by showing that leadership and success come in many forms—and that we don’t need to conform to outdated models to make an impact.
My Leadership and WCS Connection.
To me, queer leadership is about authenticity, resilience, and creating pathways for others. It’s about challenging norms, fostering inclusive cultures, and ensuring that diverse perspectives are not only heard but valued.
Being part of the WCS community (and then later becoming a Board member) has been incredibly meaningful. It has given me a space to connect with other queer leaders, exchange ideas, and amplify my work. Whether through collaborations, mentorship, or simply sharing experiences, WCS has reinforced that leadership isn’t just about individual success—it’s about lifting others as you climb.
Life Before & After Winning the Award.
Winning the WCS Queer Leaders Award in 2024 was a milestone that validated the work I’ve been doing in design, education, and community-building. Since receiving the award, new opportunities have emerged—whether it’s speaking engagements, collaborations, or simply connecting with other queer professionals who want to build something meaningful. Of course, new challenges have also come with increased visibility, but I see them as opportunities to grow and refine my impact.
The recognition has also strengthened my commitment to mentorship. Many aspiring designers and entrepreneurs have reached out for guidance, and I’ve been intentional about creating more opportunities for them. - Kevin Hawkins
My Vision for the Future.
Looking ahead, my main goal is to successfully launch over9to5 and establish it as a go-to resource for professionals who want to gain financial independence through entrepreneurship. I also want to expand The Common Thread, turning it into a global network that connects people through shared experiences.
Challenges will always exist—whether it’s breaking through industry barriers, securing resources, or navigating the complexities of leadership. But I believe that by staying true to my vision and surrounding myself with a strong community, I can continue evolving as a leader.
Ultimately, my goal is to show that queer leaders can thrive across industries—not just in spaces traditionally labeled as “creative” but also in business, tech, and beyond. By continuing to build, mentor, and advocate, I hope to pave the way for others to do the same.
Kevin Hawkins (he/him)
Kevin is a UX Research & Product Design leader with 17 years of experience in working on complex social problems, delighting customers, and growing startups. Previously, he’s worked with companies such as Glovo, Booking.com, PwC, Uber, Capital One, Gap, and more. He also serves on the board of We Create Space. Kevin spends his personal time as a public speaker and mentor for under-represented groups in the tech sector, and is a former Pride organizer. As a gay, Liberian-American that’s lived across the USA, Europe, and Asia, he specializes in building communities and using food to bring people together.
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