Heklina, the renowned San Francisco drag queen known for her larger-than-life persona and captivating stage presence, was a prominent figure in the drag scene for decades.

Her drag career took flight in the early 1990s when she co-founded the iconic Trannyshack, a legendary drag performance club in San Francisco. Through Trannyshack, she provided a platform for emerging drag artists and pushed boundaries with her audacious performances, challenging societal norms and championing freedom of expression.

Beyond her remarkable stage presence, Heklina was a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. She consistently used her platform to raise awareness and funds for various causes, including HIV/AIDS research, transgender rights, and queer youth support programs. Her fundraising efforts made a significant impact on the lives of many individuals in need.

Heklina's influence and contributions extended beyond the local scene; she toured internationally, captivating audiences around the world. Through her visibility and unapologetic authenticity, she shattered stereotypes and helped to pave the way for greater acceptance and understanding of the art of drag.