Name: Ryan (“Rycents”) Williams

Social: @Rycents

Age: 22

Sign: Pisces

College: Southern Connecticut State University

Dream Job?

My dream job is to be a vessel for creativity. I enjoy helping bring creative visions to life, whether they’re my own or someone else’s. Through all art forms—whether that ranges from modeling, acting, dance, fashion, storytelling, or beyond—I want to be able to visualize and execute ideas for people who may not be able to do it themselves or who want help bringing their vision to life. I love creating, collaborating, and turning ideas into something tangible while also maintaining a stable source of income.

Secret Talent?

I can make raindrop noises with my mouth. #YUNT #BOSS

What made you want to join UC?

Honestly, I didn’t want to join UC at first. I had no real interest in ballroom. Omi reached out to me, brought me to the pier, and introduced me to the Unbothereds. What drew me in wasn’t the competition—it was the family aspect: the pancakes, the basement, the pier, and the people. My connection to the house started with the people before it started with ballroom.

How does it feel to be a part of this legacy?

I think it’s beautiful. Queer history is a story of resilience and being able to contribute to that while helping create space for those coming after us is something I don’t take lightly. As the first Butch Queen Face to debut in the founding NYC chapter following its revival, it’s both a privilege and an honor to represent that legacy and remain connected to the root of the house.

How has being Unbothered changed the way you navigate spaces outside of the ballroom?

Being Unbothered has made me more comfortable with my femininity. Growing up in spaces that were largely occupied by straight and heteronormative people, there can be pressure to suppress parts of yourself. Being surrounded by so many queer people has helped break down a lot of the barriers created by ignorance and judgment and reminded me that there is no one way to exist.

I also recognize that I’m a leader and that people are watching, whether I realize it or not. If a younger person sees me being comfortable with both my masculinity and femininity while remaining authentically myself, I hope it encourages them to do the same. I want people to know that there’s beauty in duality and that they don’t have to choose between different parts of themselves to be accepted.

What is the most important “real-world” lesson you’ve learned from N’yomi that you’ve applied to your schoolwork or professional life?

A lesson i've taken from N’yomi is the power of making people feel seen. It’s not something she necessarily taught me, but it's a belief she reinforced. N’yomi has a unique ability to connect with people, make them feel valued, and leave them feeling recognized. In a world where everybody wants to be seen and understood, that’s a powerful skill.

Acknowledging the way she builds and navigates relationships showed me how far emotional intelligence and communication can take you. Whether it’s leadership, networking, or professional spaces, people remember how you make them feel. Seeing that in practice reinforced the importance of being intentional with my words and the way I connect with others.