Candis Cayne Speaking Fee: $10,000 to $20,000

Candis Cayne is an American actress, performance artist, and LGBTQIA+ advocate who became a trailblazer for transgender representation in mainstream media. Born on August 29, 1971, in Maui, Hawaii, she was raised alongside her fraternal twin brother by parents who taught at a Waldorf school. Her early exposure to the arts led her to pursue dance and acting, eventually moving to Los Angeles and then New York City to further her career. In the vibrant drag scene of New York during the 1990s, Cayne made a name for herself as a choreographer and performer, participating in events like Wigstock and appearing in films such as "Wigstock: The Movie" and "To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar." She began her gender transition in 1996, embracing her identity and becoming a prominent figure in the LGBTQIA+ community. Cayne's breakthrough came in 2007 when she was cast as Carmelita Rainer in ABC's "Dirty Sexy Money," making her the first transgender actress to play a recurring transgender character on primetime television. Her performance was widely acclaimed and opened doors for more inclusive casting in the industry. She continued to appear in various television shows, including "Nip/Tuck," "Elementary," "The Magicians," and "Grey's Anatomy," showcasing her versatility as an actress. Beyond her acting career, Cayne is a dedicated advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights, working with organizations like GLAAD and the Human Rights Campaign. In 2015, she received the HRC Visibility Award for her efforts in promoting equality and representation. She also appeared in the reality series "I Am Cait," supporting Caitlyn Jenner and raising awareness about transgender issues. In 2017, Cayne published her book, "Hi Gorgeous!: Transforming Inner Power Into Radiant Beauty," which combines her personal journey with practical advice on self-love and beauty. Through her work in entertainment and activism, Candis Cayne continues to inspire and empower individuals to embrace their true selves.