Axton Burton, a nonbinary transgender independent business owner since 2016, is the founder of Pride Across the Bridge. Before founding the organization, they created and led the Riverview School District’s first Gay-Straight Alliance. Axton then wrote The Big Book of All Things Queer, a multilingual comprehensive book that is an up-to-date and personally vetted living document for Eastside 2SLGBTQIA+ people and beyond, which is widely available at Eastside public schools, local businesses, and healthcare practices.

Since 2013, Axton has been educating medical providers on trans-related healthcare and has been a featured speaker at local groups, city meetings, conferences. They also created the first all-LGBTQIA+ vendor, creator, performer, and resource event on the Eastside, Redmond Pride- a largescale Pride event.

Axton has also produced a strong record of queer Eastside firsts, some including a queer self-defense class, skydiving group, all-queer comedian show, rainbow elder breakfast, queer holiday potluck, and a variety of recurring and one-off programs. In their free time, Axton enjoys spending time with their pets, watching horror movies, playing video games, and trying new food.

Makenna Thompson was born and raised on the Eastside. Her educational journey began with homeschooling, providing her with a unique and personalized learning experience. Later, she ventured into the world of real estate, where she pursued her passion with dedication and tenacity, ultimately achieving the highest licensing in the state after a few short years. 

Throughout her career, Makenna has been deeply committed to advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion within the real estate industry. She has served on the Washington Real Estate DEI Committee, a significant part of her journey. As a queer individual, Makenna understands the importance of representation and support, and she is passionate about giving back to the community that has provided her with so much inspiration and support. Her advocacy work is fueled by a desire to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone.

In her personal life, Makenna loves hiking, which allows her to explore the beauty of the natural world. It is also the number one Norwegian pastime, keeping her close to her roots. Pottery / Ceramics is another passion of hers, providing a satisfying way to create beautiful and functional art with her hands. Additionally, she is an avid cat lover with three of her own and enjoys fostering kittens when possible.

Photo and Bio coming soon! :)

Naomi Bryant is originally from the Midwest and moved to Washington in 2022.

They hold a Bachelor’s degree in Women and Gender Studies from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, as well as a Cultures and Communities Certificate. Their work is rooted in grassroots activism, social justice, and community empowerment. Naomi served as the Community Education and Outreach Liaison for Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin–Milwaukee as well as the Co-Founder of Drag Story Hour–Milwaukee Chapter.

Outside of her work, Naomi enjoys scuba diving, paddle boarding, and participating in year-round cold plunges throughout the Puget Sound region.