In collaboration with Kenneth Cole, the Cut presents Stepping Up, a two-part inquiry into how a couple of modern change-makers have turned good intentions into progress.
The antagonistic, poorly formed political arguments clogging your Facebook feed might make you skeptical of social-media activism as a legitimate endeavor. But internet activist Levi Jackman Foster, an ex-Mormon who is vocal about the experience of coming out to his conservative Alaskan family, has built a brand out of engendering social change via his social media activity.
Foster’s 226,000 Instagram followers tune in for his artistic photography, which often deals with the raw, unspoken experiences of members of the LGBTQ community. Additionally, Foster posts candidly about events, organizations, and figures who align with his charitable and creative passions. By engaging masses of online strangers, Foster has raised funds for under-the-radar causes, provoked political conversations and action, and educated far-reaching audiences about worlds unknown to them.
Watch above to hear Foster reflect on his unique career trajectory and the strategy behind his style of modern activism. Plus, the Kenneth Cole Courageous Class member weighs in on what’s key to facilitating effective comment-section discourse, and why we should all put ourselves out there online. Inspired? Check out great spring shoes to hit the ground running in.
Produced by Robert Hanewich; Directed by Ryan Bair; Styling by Jess Mederos; Hair and Makeup by Mari Shten
This is paid content produced for an advertiser by New York Brand Studio. The editorial staff of The Cut did not play a role in its creation.