Exclusive: The Upshaws’ Jermelle Simon and Fiancé Obio Jones on Making Black Queer Love—and Joy—Visible
In this intimate feature, Obio and Jermelle open up about building a relationship grounded in love, honesty, and agency. Together, they reflect on what it means to share their story publicly while staying rooted in authenticity—showing that Black queer love is not only real, but radiant. Their visibility continues to inspire a generation seeking representation, healing, and hope.
The Upshaws Star Jermelle Simon Details ‘Surprise’ Engagement to Creator Obio Jones – PEOPLE Magazine (Exclusive)
In this exclusive PEOPLE feature, Obio shares the intimate story behind his surprise proposal to fiancé Jermelle Simon. Surrounded by family and love, the moment reflects the heart of their relationship—rooted in friendship, intentionality, and joy. Together, they open up about authenticity, partnership, and building a life grounded in love and purpose.
Say It Loud: Black, Queer & HBCU Proud – with Obio Jones
In this iOne Digital original series, Obio joins fellow changemaker Silvio Horsely for a heartfelt conversation on legacy, love, and living authentically. Together, they celebrate the richness of the Black queer experience—bridging generations and honoring the power of pride, purpose, and community.
UofL’s Black Greek Life Celebrates Historical Queer Voices – Queer Kentucky
In this feature, Obio joined an open dialogue on representation, identity, and inclusivity within Black Greek life. Through vulnerability and truth, he emphasized the importance of asking questions with respect, creating safe spaces for learning, and ensuring that Black queer voices are seen, heard, and remembered in history and community alike.
The Creative Collective NYC Ushers In Its 2023 Class of Thought Leaders – ESSENCE
Featured among a dynamic group of visionaries shaping culture, Obio was recognized by The Creative Collective NYC for his impact as a storyteller and advocate for Black queer visibility. As part of the 2023 class of thought leaders, he continues to champion authenticity, wellness, and purpose-driven connection across communities.
The Creative Class – Obio Jones, Life Coach & LGBTQ+ Changemaker
Honored among visionaries shaping culture and conversation, Obio is recognized for his commitment to authenticity, advocacy, and emotional wellness. Guided by James Baldwin’s words, he continues to face truth head-on—creating spaces that inspire healing, self-acceptance, and lasting change.
Watch Eight Influencers Mobilize Black Gay Men to Fight Monkeypox – POZ Magazine
Featured in GLAAD’s #FactsAndVax campaign, Obio brought humor and heart to a nationwide effort encouraging Black gay men to stay informed and protected against mpox. Through his signature mix of honesty and storytelling, he helped turn education into empowerment—reminding his community that awareness is an act of care.
How Obio Jones Continues to Make Space for Black Queer Men and Their Mental Health – EBONY Magazine
In this powerful feature, Obio opens up about creating safe spaces for Black queer men to heal, feel seen, and exist in their fullness. As a certified life coach and advocate, he shares how his work bridges faith, mental health, and authenticity—reminding readers that grace, honesty, and silence can all be forms of strength.
Meet Obio Jones | LGBTQ advocate
In this feature, Obio credits authenticity as the foundation of his purpose and success. He shares how his YouTube series It’s Just Not Adding Up became a platform for affirmation, truth, and representation — and why standing proudly in who you are remains his greatest act of advocacy.
Conversations with Obio Jones – VoyageATL
In this feature, Obio reflects on the journey that led him to create spaces for truth, healing, and representation. From embracing his own story to amplifying the voices of others, he shares how living authentically became both his purpose and his platform — and why his community remains the heart of it all.
Inside Jamari Fox
In this conversation, Obio tackles the often-overlooked topic of bisexuality and visibility within the LGBTQ+ community. Through honesty and perspective, he opens up dialogue about identity, belonging, and why every letter in “LGBT” deserves to be heard.
Episode 25: Queer Black Men
On Express Yourself Black Man, Obio joins a powerful conversation about identity, masculinity, and allyship within the Black community. Together, they unpack misconceptions about queerness and explore what real support, understanding, and healing can look like for queer Black men.
Pride, No Prejudice
Obio joins the Girlz, Uninterrupted crew for a candid, joy-filled conversation on self-discovery, coming out, and embracing every part of who you are. It’s honest, hilarious, and full of the kind of real talk that reminds us pride is more than a month — it’s a mindset.
Encore: Breaking Out the Box… To Be Me.
In this powerful encore episode, Obio opens up about choosing authenticity over fear. From redefining masculinity to deepening his faith, he shares what it means to break free from expectations and walk boldly in who God called him to be.
In this episode of thatblackboyjoy., Obio opens up about the importance of creating space — for healing, authenticity, and the conversations that help us grow. It’s a candid exchange on vulnerability, purpose, and what it really means to show up for yourself and others.
Exploring Masculinity and Queer Visibility.
On The Melanin Sound Wave, Obio dives into an honest conversation about identity, masculinity, and the freedom that comes with living out loud. It’s a thoughtful look at how visibility can shift culture — and how self-acceptance becomes its own kind of revolution.
Episode 29: No Comparison
On CharactersHere with Sharda, Obio shares his journey of learning to honor his own path — without comparison or competition. Through faith, creativity, and self-awareness, he explores what it means to find peace in your purpose and embrace the story God is writing just for you.