About me

Welcome. I’m Emrah Jusufoski, a storyteller, advocate, and dreamer who has learned to navigate life’s complexities with resilience and hope. My journey is one of finding my voice after years of silence, and I’m here to share it with you.

Welcome to my world, where dreams don’t just stay dreams — they turn into reality.

I grew up in a world where being myself was a challenge. Coming out as gay at 16 meant facing abandonment by my family, but it also sparked a deep determination to build a life rooted in authenticity and purpose.

Before that, seven years of relentless bullying left me feeling invisible. But through all the pain and rejection, I learned the strength of owning my identity and the power of standing up for myself. Applying to UWC Dilijan was a leap of faith — a chance to step into a community where diversity and compassion are celebrated. UWC taught me that we can find belonging even in the unlikeliest of places and that our differences are what make us stronger together. It wasn’t just an education; it was a lifeline, a place where I could finally be seen and valued.

When it came time to choose a college, Skidmore felt like the perfect next chapter. Its emphasis on creative thought and community mirrored the values I had come to hold dear: individuality, expression, and the courage to challenge norms. Here, I’ve continued to explore what it means to use my voice and story for something greater. Life has taught me that silence can be oppressive, but speaking up can be liberating. My mission is to show that even when the world tries to shut you down, you can rise. Together, we can create a space where everyone belongs.

That’s why I’m building SlayHood Magazine — a platform for those who’ve been silenced, just like I once was. It’s a space to amplify the voices of LGBTQ+ individuals and anyone who has felt unheard, unseen, or unimportant. My dream is for SlayHood to be a beacon for others, a reminder that your voice matters, your story matters, and you are not alone.

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