Ahmed El (he/him) is a Philadelphia native and is a graduate of Xavier University of Louisiana with a B.S. in Business Administration/Marketing. He is a 20-year veteran of Verizon Wireless, currently in the role of a retail manager. In 2021, Ahmed co-founded FADE TO BLACK, an organization that supports the social and wellness needs of same-gender-loving men of color. Based in Jersey City, they curate social events that create safe spaces and build community across generations. Ahmed has organized and co-produced dozens of events, from dance parties and professional mixers to single-interest classes and vendor-supported festivals.

Ahmed is dedicated to supporting vulnerable communities and has worked with organizations such as the Hyacinth Foundation, Jersey City Department of Health, and Hudson Pride Center to offer education, STI testing, and vaccinations for monkeypox and COVID-19. He has engaged with New York’s LGBT Center, where he’s raised tens of thousands of dollars for HIV/AIDS prevention/support through their signature event, Cycle for the Cause. Ahmed resides in Jersey City with his partner and loves gardening, cycling, and house music.