August Rocha

August Rocha is a Milwaukee-based transgender advocate, content creator, speaker, writer, and model known for his work in LGBTQ+ advocacy, disability awareness, and rare disease education. An adopted Chinese American, Rocha shares his personal experiences to educate and foster community, focusing on topics such as gender identity, adoption, and living with Behçet's disease, a rare form of vasculitis. Rocha publicly came out as transgender and has used his platform, including a TikTok community of more than 100,000 followers, to discuss trans identity and promote trans joy.

Rocha's advocacy encompasses multiple identities, including his experiences as an adoptee, a disabled person, and a member of the Asian American community. Diagnosed with Behçet's disease at age 21 after a lifetime of symptoms, Rocha uses mobility aids such as a walker and sometimes a wheelchair. He addresses the challenges and unpredictability of living with a rare disease, using his platform to raise awareness and support for others facing similar experiences.

Rocha regularly engages his audience by answering questions about his life as a trans man, a disabled individual, an Asian American, and an adoptee. His content addresses intersectionality, inclusion, and resilience, contributing to broader conversations about diversity and equity. Rocha has participated in the National Organization for Rare Disorders Rare Diseases + Orphan Products Breakthrough Summit, sharing insights on rare disease advocacy and the lived experiences of those affected.

Rocha's speaking engagements include college audiences, diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, disability advocacy, and LGBTQ+ issues. Through his work, Rocha provides education and perspective on intersectional identity, disability rights, and trans visibility, supporting organizations and communities in fostering empathy and understanding.