How often does an individual who possess a sharp wit, unique charm, intelligence, timeless beauty, and a commitment to the greater good come along? TITA AIDA, as we all know her, is the answer.

In the early 90's as the AIDS epidemic was affecting every community on every level, the Asian & Pacific Islander (A&PI) communities was searching for a role model, someone who truly understood the issues and the devastating impact in our communities. Given that A&PIs are a caring and nurturing community, they needed someone with a “softer yet bold” approach in dealing with HIV/AIDS. It was at that time that TITA AIDA was born.

"Tita" in Hawaiian means “ big sister .” In the Philippines , Tita means “aunt.” Both meanings have a clear cultural references to what Tita Aida is all about to this very day. Tita Aida embraced this role and extended her open arms to care for those in her communities impacted by HIV/AIDS. Identifying as a Filipina transgender woman, she was ready to face the obstacles ahead of her. Armed with her compassion, Tita Aida worked at Asian AIDS Project to join the fight to halt the spread of HIV and AIDS.

Tita Aida was instrumental in raising awareness and bridging access for members of our communities to vital HIV education and prevention information and services. She tirelessly de-stigmatized this disease called AIDS to ensure that services were not denied and made readily available to all who needed support. She actively participated in numerous visibility campaigns, hosted transgender beauty pageants, and organized outreach and educational efforts in the form of entertainment in various bars and establishments where A&PIs congregate.

Throughout the years, Tita Aida has taken on the role of advocate, activist and familiar personality. Tita Aida has become a sought-after personality in the queer Asian & Pacific Islander communities throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.

2008 marks a new beginning in Tita Aida’s life and career. For the past 10 years, Tita Aida has served on the Board of Directors of the San Francisco Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender PRIDE Celebration Committee. Last year, she was elected Vice President of the said Board.

In February 2008, Tita was identified and appointed by Mayor Gavin Newsom to be the first transgender woman to sit on the Commission of Status of Women in San Francisco.

Aside from these roles, she is one of the elite gender illusionists at the world famous restaurant, Asia SF.

In June, KQED honored Tita Aida the prestigious” Unsung Hero” Award during their Pride month Celebration.

Tita finds time to stay in touch with the community with her column in the SF based club magazine, GLOSS MAGAZINE. Her column is entitled, “ Asia it!”