Karen Holmes

Karen Holmes is a transformational memoir author, speaker, military leader, and community advocate dedicated to advancing inclusion, resilience, and authentic leadership. A passionate advocate for transgender rights, she has built a national platform through public speaking, media appearances, and community engagement, using her personal journey to inspire acceptance and empower others to live authentically. Holmes is the author of 40 Years and Wandering No More: Loving My Life Being Transgender, a memoir that explores identity, service, perseverance, and personal freedom. She is also a TEDx speaker, radio host of Inside Out on WPFW 89.3 FM, and a columnist for the Baltimore OUTloud newspaper, where she continues to elevate transgender voices and foster meaningful conversations about equality and belonging.

Holmes has devoted more than two decades to public service and safety leadership. She retired after over 24 years as a federal safety officer, where she was recognized for her outstanding commitment to workplace safety and community service. She currently serves as Chief Warrant Officer 3 with the United States Veterans Reserve Corps, commanding the Canine Emotional Support Unit, which provides disaster response assistance and emotional support to veterans and communities affected by crises. In addition, she founded SafetyFirst DMV, a training organization that delivers CPR, AED, and first aid certification programs throughout the Washington metropolitan area. Her extensive service includes disaster response leadership with the American Red Cross, FEMA training, and volunteer work supporting veterans, shelters, and emergency preparedness initiatives.

Throughout her distinguished career, Holmes has earned numerous honors recognizing her leadership, military service, and advocacy. She was named NCO Soldier of the Year for the State of Maryland in 2012 and Soldier of the Year by the State Guard Association of the United States in 2013. Her advocacy has also been recognized with Capital Pride's Engendered Spirit Award and inclusion among LGBTQ Nation's list of the Top 50 Successful Transgender Americans. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Holmes leads the Butterfly Journey initiative, helping transgender women transition from sex work through education, career development, and mentorship. Guided by a lifelong commitment to service, she continues to champion opportunities for marginalized communities while inspiring future generations to lead with courage, compassion, and authenticity.