A breakout star of FX’s Golden Globe-nominated series, Pose, Ryan Jamaal Swain is a triple-threat actor, dancer, and singer who was named to Forbes’ “30 Under 30” list for his LGBTQ+ activism. He has won critical acclaim for his portrayal of Damon, an ambitious aspiring dancer who, after being kicked out of his home for being gay, becomes part of a self-selected family in New York City’s 80s-era queer ballroom scene. Pose, which has been widely praised for its portrayal of queer and trans people of color, catapulted the frequent off-Broadway actor into the media spotlight. Swain was named by PAPER Magazine as “100 People Taking Over 2019” and has been featured in publications such as Vogue Online, Nylon, GQ, The New York Times, Flaunt Magazine and WWD. Following the success of Pose, Swain made his Broadway debut in “Choir Boy,” directed by Academy Award winner Tarell Alvin McCraney. He is currently writing a book for young adults that is based on his own life experiences growing up queer in the South. As an activist, Swain is a Stonewall Ambassador. He notably partnered with the nonprofit It Gets Better Foundation on the “#48HoursOfLove” campaign, sharing uplifting messages of hope, empowerment and support to LGBTQ+ students during the stressful back to school season.