Wyn Wiley, known professionally as Pattie Gonia, is a dynamic drag queen, environmental and LGBTQ+ activist, and community organizer. Combining her artistic talents with a passion for advocacy, Pattie has made significant strides in promoting awareness around LGBTQ+ issues and environmental causes. With a degree in advertising and public relations from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, she has channeled her creative skills into impactful initiatives that resonate with diverse audiences.
Pattie Gonia first gained widespread recognition after the release of her viral YouTube video, “Pattie Gonia’s First Ever Video!” in November 2019. Since then, she has been featured in prominent media outlets, including Vogue, NPR, and ABC News. In 2023, she collaborated with renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma and musician Quinn Christopherson on the climate change anthem “Won’t Give Up,” further solidifying her role as a key voice in the climate justice movement.
Beyond her online presence, Pattie is dedicated to grassroots organizing, leading hikes and events that unite LGBTQ+ individuals with environmental causes. In 2022, she co-founded “The Outdoorist Oath,” a nonprofit focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion within the outdoor community. Her partnership with The North Face for their “Summer of Pride” series showcased her commitment to fostering local LGBTQ+ engagement.
Recognized for her influential work, Pattie Gonia was named to Out magazine’s Out100 list in 2020 and nominated for a Shorty Award. In 2023, Time magazine included her in their list of Next Generation Leaders, affirming her status as a transformative figure in both the LGBTQ+ and environmental spheres. Through her artistry and activism, Pattie continues to inspire others to embrace authenticity and advocate for a sustainable future.