Help Kala Survive the Winter - My Story
My name is Kala. I am a Black trans woman in my 40s from The Bronx, New York. For the past decade, I have built a thriving career in technology, holding roles as a Senior DevOps Engineer and a DevOps Manager. My work has always been more than just a job to me; it has provided me with both financial stability and an outlet for my technological passion.
In my free time, I’m a Goth DJ, model, and artist. These passions might not cover the bills, but they truly feed my soul. I’ve been immersed in the gothic scene for most of my life and deeply love and support the community.
A Challenging Transition and Job Market
My professional journey took a drastic turn when I was laid off on June 28, 2024, Pride Weekend, exactly one year after I came out at work. This timing, which felt deeply personal, thrust me into a challenging job market that was all the more treacherous for me as a Black, middle-aged trans woman.
The tech industry is currently contracting, and despite my extensive background, my job search has felt endless and increasingly hopeless, especially in light of my marginalized identity.
Obstacles and Setbacks
I faced an additional setback in the summer of 2024 that further complicated my job hunt: I developed a debilitating pinched nerve. This condition required extensive physical therapy, which was costly and significantly slowed my already challenging search process.
Moreover, this is my first job search since transitioning, and navigating this professional landscape under these new circumstances has been uniquely challenging.
To enhance my employability, I enrolled in a rigorous Full Stack Engineer boot camp this past summer, investing my time and limited resources in upgrading my skillset. I completed the program with excellent grades and hoped my certification would open new doors.
The Financial Reality of Survival
The combined impact of unemployment, medical expenses, and the high cost of living in New York City has been devastating. I have emptied my life savings, brought roommates into my home, and made hard but necessary cuts to my quality of life in the name of survival.
Despite these measures, I am falling dangerously behind on essential bills and will be filing for bankruptcy to manage this overwhelming financial crisis. I am perpetually in survival mode, relying mainly on canned goods from my pantry. The stress from this constant financial instability is immeasurable.
Where Your Support Will Go
I urgently need the funds raised through this campaign to cover my basic survival needs this winter while I intensify my job search. Your contributions will directly support:
- Rent: Ensuring I have a roof over my head.
- Health Insurance: Maintaining coverage for ongoing medical needs and mental health support.
- Utilities: Keeping on gas, internet, and electricity.
- Transportation: Covering travel costs to interviews and networking events.
- Food: Accessing nutritious meals beyond canned goods.
- Pet Supplies: Covering the costs of care for my beloved two cats; this includes litter, food, and medical needs.
A Pledge to Pay It Forward
I strongly believe in community and mutual aid. Once I find stable employment and regain my financial footing, I will pay forward any remaining funds from this campaign. I am committed to dedicating surplus funds to mutual aid efforts to help "other community members facing crises"
Your support right now is not just a donation; it’s a lifeline.
Thanks for reading my story, and I appreciate any help you can offer.
Organizer
