Non-binary activist and performer Alok Vaid-Menon will not stop finding beauty through art.

“I hate to break it to you, world, but you don’t have to wait for the party. You don’t have to wait for Fashion Week. You get to have fun now. You get to be free now, and that now gets to be forever.” Not every comedian can authoritatively preach on embracing inner truths and dismantling gender stereotypes… then have you in stitches with a witty one-liner. But not every comedian is Alok Vaid-Menon. Or as they’re better known to their 1.3 million followers: simply, ALOK. #Pride50, presented by #Xfinity. #XFinityPride The 32-year-old non-binary performer, activist, and internet personality is well known amongst the LGBTQ+ community for their compelling work, but this year has brought them –– and their trailblazing beliefs –– to the mainstream. Not only are they featured amongst other gender non-conforming comics in Netflix’s Gender Agenda, but they’re the subject of documentary short ALOK, which premiered at Sundance Film Festival and was executive produced by Jodie Foster. A lot has been made of the transfeminine Indian American’s bold views on body diversity, gender neutrality, and colorful wardrobe. But when asked to define themselves, they told Afar: “Artist feels like the only word I’ve ever chosen to call myself. My creative project is to end the international crisis of loneliness.”