Age: 40

Job: Senior director of strategy and operations, LGBT Life Center

At work: I oversee the daily operations of LGBT Life Center and help expand the agency’s services across Hampton Roads alongside an incredible team of leaders. I’ve been passionate about HIV and LGBTQ+ health care for over a decade, and this continues to fuel my purpose every day. My work in the community isn’t just a job — it’s a calling to build a world where every LGBTQIA+ person has access to affirming, equitable care.

Home and family: I live in Norfolk with my partner, Andrew Wall, our dogs Jaxxon and Mathilde, and our cat Basel. I grew up in Palmyra, New York, and earned degrees from SUNY Fredonia and the University at Buffalo. I dedicate this award to my mother, who passed away one year ago on the day of the Top Forty Under 40 celebration. Her love, support and belief in kindness shaped my path in service to others and work I know she’d be proud of. This award is for you, Mom.

Volunteer activities: Giving back has always been a cornerstone of who I strive to be. I’ve served as co-chair of Ghent Pride, chief of elections for the city of Norfolk, and have held leadership roles with Stonewall Sports Norfolk, Hampton Roads Business OUTreach and the Fredonia State Alumni Association. I was a member of the Downtown Norfolk Council’s Downtown100 leadership cohort.

Motivating factor: You only get one life, so I fill mine with joy, laughter and purpose. Helping others and building a healthier, more connected community gives me energy every day.

Advice to young people: Say yes! To Everything! Try everything that challenges or excites you — join a committee, attend that meeting, volunteer. The experiences that light a fire in you will shape your future and the community around you.

Professional goal in five years: To continue leading in the nonprofit sector, advancing LGBTQ+ health and human services, and ensuring that LGBT Life Center remains a strong and enduring pillar for our community. My goal is to always be a voice — visible or behind the scenes — for equity and access.

The one thing I’d change about Hampton Roads: I’m ready for that bridge-tunnel project to be done; mostly so we can enjoy all the beautiful adventures on the Peninsula with ease. Beyond that, I’d love to see even greater investment in small, minority-owned and LGBTQ+-affirming businesses and nonprofits.

Region’s biggest asset: Our diversity. Hampton Roads is a beautiful reflection of people, cultures, cuisines and ideas coming together — a true Coastal Virginia mosaic.

Downtime: I love to cook (especially soup in the fall), travel and watch football. I’ve been a lifelong Buffalo Bills fan, patiently waiting for that Super Bowl win! Time with Andrew, friends and our animals keeps me grounded and grateful for all that I have.

What really gets under my skin: When nonprofits aren’t fully recognized for the impact they make. Organizations like LGBT Life Center help people find housing, access health care and build stability. I wish cities would invest more deeply in these vital partners who make our communities stronger with annual general operating support.

https://www.dailypress.com/2025/10/27/top-forty-under-40-2025-christopher-reybrouck/