Nikolas Montolio

Nikolas Montolio

Nikolas Montolio is a passionate leader eager to share his wisdom gained from his gender transition to help younger generations feel seen and empowered. He is a graduate of Acceleration Academy, a unique second-chance high school that helped Nickolas realize how much he loved inspiring youth of diverse gender and orientation experiences. Nikolas quickly discovered his calling to empower young people and made it his life’s work to do so.

While attending Acceleration Academy, Nikolas advocated for the school to remain open at night so working youth and young mothers could complete their education while maintaining financial support. His involvement in public awareness campaigns garnered an appearance on WEDR 99 Jamz, a local Miami Radio station to promote the program: Acceleration Academy. Post-graduation, Nikolas volunteered at Pridelines’ community kitchens to provide food to youth and young adults within the pride community. 

Once the pandemic hit, volunteering ceased and Nikolas felt a void and wanted a purpose during this isolated time. He prayed to find meaningful work aligned with his life purpose. Nikolas asked a Miami Beach Senior High counselor for more community resources and he was connected to YES Institute. This led him to participate in our Communication Toolbox course, and Nikolas later applied to our Youth Advisory Leadership Council (YALC).

As a natural-born leader, Nikolas supported the development of YALC and contributed to its continuation through the pandemic. He was one of the four dedicated youth interviewers for the Legacy Couples Project, in partnership with HistoryMiami Museum and Miami Beach Pride. 

In March of 2022, Nikolas joined the YES Institute team as our Youth Empowerment Coordinator. He shares about his lived experiences and the knowledge he has gained from them. He looks forward to continuing the impactful work of YES Institute and having his purpose make a difference for others.