A Bronx resident is using her voice to make a mark in her community, and to inspire others in the LGBTQ community.

Pastor Carmen Hernandez founded her own organization devoted to give people from her community opportunities. She started the first New York City LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce.

Born in Puerto Rico, Hernandez moved to New York at the age of six years old. She says her life hasn't been easy one. She is the oldest out of nine siblings, and says her mother and faith have been her driving force to battle any obstacle. It has even given her the courage to come out at 30 years old.

"She didn't like my lifestyle, but she said 'I made you,' and that meant more to me," Hernandez says. "As long as my old lady accepted me, I didn't care what the world thought."

Hernandez wants people to remember it is important to work hard and stay true to yourself.