Kylie Kwong

Meet Kylie Kwong

Pronouns: She/Her

Instagram: @kylie_kwong

Kylie Kwong isn’t just a culinary icon; she’s a beacon of authenticity and community spirit in Australia’s queer landscape. Known for her incredible dishes and devotion to local culture, Kylie has always brought her whole self to the table–both in her restaurants and in her advocacy. For Kylie, Mardi Gras isn’t just a celebration; it’s a powerful reminder of the strength found in honesty, vulnerability, and unity. Her journey through Mardi Gras has shaped her life and inspired others to live openly and authentically, making her an unwavering voice for inclusivity and connection.

Do you remember your first Mardi Gras experience?

"I was in my early 20s when I went to my first Mardi Gras. I had come out to my family at age 19, so felt liberated to be able to be my true self within my family, social and working circles. Can recall the electrifying energy and pure joy of experiencing the parade in Oxford Street for the very first time – feeling the overwhelming, powerful force of a community united, being surrounded by thousands of other queers as well as the non-queer community in a totally non-judgemental environment – it was a deeply empowering experience and one that gave me the courage and inspiration to continue on my path as an openly queer person, which meant living a full, true, authentic life. And of course dancing all night with my friends in the Hordern Pavilion!"

What is your favourite Mardi Gras memory?

"The 17 days of Sydney WorldPride 2023 will remain one of the highlights of my life as a queer person, community, inclusion and equality for all  – SWP for me was a moment of immense national pride, I’ll never ever forget that feeling of unity and community when we marched across the Harbour Bridge, led by the almighty 78ers!!!"

What are you looking forward to in 2025?

"Coming together once again with the local community, to celebrate our LGBTQIA+ identity, to champion creative expression, to challenge injustice and to elevate diverse voices – and to share and amplify this critical platform with the world."

Why is Mardi Gras important to you?

"For me Mardi Gras me is a celebration of the importance of being able to live a full, open life in which we can bring our whole self to the table - good parts and importantly, our broken parts which reflect our human vulnerability. This encourages honesty and living from our heart, and inspires others around us to be themselves - true connection and authenticity prevail, as a result best ideas and collaborations are born. This enhances community, is nation-building and is beneficial for all."