Jaime Martin Ko Atilano

Author. Advocate. Creator.

About

Jaime Martin Ko Atilano is a non-binary immigrant from the Philippines and a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. They were awarded the Lorde-O'Leary award for their work at the University of Maryland for tackling initiatives like implementing all-gender restrooms, advocating for inclusive healthcare practices for trans/non-binary students, and speaking at panels to educate students on LGBTQ+ terminology and issues.

After growing up without any characters (on screen or in books) that looked like them, Jaime decided to write the book Mala & the Mask of Gold to include characters that their younger self would have cherished. A Filipinx mythology-inspired debut novel about magical shamans, an ancient prophecy, and finding your inner lakas - power - that exists in you. It will be published with New Degree Press in December 2020.

Outside of activism and writing, you can find Jaime spending their time practicing their makeup and styling skills, planning their next travel adventure, or drinking iced caramel macchiatos at their nearest coffee shop. They are currently residing in Boston, MA.

Lorde-O'Leary Award Recipient

Each spring the University of Maryland honors outstanding scholar-leaders at the University Awards Program. Hosted by the Adele H. Stamp Student Union - Center for Campus Life and Omicron Delta Kappa, this program features some of the University’s most prestigious awards.

Jaime Atilano was awarded and chosen as the recipient for The Lorde-O'Leary Award, which is named in honor of author and activist Audre Lorde and the late Professor Ron O'Leary of the University of Maryland Department of Theatre, is presented to the senior class student who has contributed most significantly to the advancement of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender student community at the University of Maryland and the general interest of the University.

“Always remember, embracing life’s ambiguity can help shape you into the person you are destined to be.”