Yinka Freeman: Owner/CEO

Please introduce yourself?
I’m Yinka Freeman, an event producer, entrepreneur, and community builder. 

Tell us how a bit about yourself (where are you from, how did you end up in SD) what do you do for work?
I was born in Sierra Leone but spent much of my life moving across Africa, Europe, and the U.S., attending international schools and experiencing different cultures. I eventually made my way to San Diego, drawn by its sunshine and beaches.

I’ve worked in the events industry for over 20 years, in everything from catering and hospitality to large-scale live event production. Now, I run Know Other Festival, a queer wellness camping festival, and my own event production company, Triple Pocket Events, where I produce intentional and immersive experiences for LGBTQ+ communities and beyond.

How did you become involve with the Know Other Festival?
Know Other Festival was born out of my deep passion for community, wellness, and queer joy. I became involved with the festival because I wanted to create something intentional, a place where queer women, nonbinary, and trans folks could come together in nature, step away from the noise of everyday life, and focus on their well-being, growth, and authentic self-expression. When the opportunity arose to take on a leadership role, I knew I could bring my expertise and vision to build something truly transformative.

Now, as CEO of Know Other Festival, I’m committed to curating an experience that feels like home for our community, a space that blends wellness, liberation, and deep connection in a way that is unlike anything else out there.

The importance of a Festival like Know Other Festival
A festival like Know Other Festival is essential because it creates a space that so many in the queer community, especially LGBTQ+ women, nonbinary, and trans folks rarely get to experience. In a world where queer and trans individuals often feel marginalized, disconnected, or unseen, Know Other provides a place where we can show up as our full selves without judgment, without barriers, and without fear. It prioritizes mental, emotional, sexual, and physical wellness while also celebrating joy, creativity, and self-discovery. Unlike many queer events that focus solely on nightlife, this festival is about rest, renewal, and transformation, giving people an opportunity to pause, heal, and reconnect with themselves. It’s also a space where deep, lasting connections are formed, people don’t just leave with great memories, but with chosen family, support systems, and a renewed sense of self. What makes Know Other even more powerful is that it’s designed for us, by us, mainstream festivals often overlook the needs of LGBTQ+ women, nonbinary, and trans folks, but Know Other is built with intention, inclusivity, and community at its core. It’s a place where self-expression and empowerment flourish, whether through a workshop, a dance party, or a fireside conversation, ensuring that every attendee feels seen, validated, and celebrated. Ultimately, Know Other Festival is about liberation, giving people the space to reconnect with themselves, with nature, and with each other. It’s about joy, resilience, and the power of coming together in a space that truly feels like home.

What are you looking forward to the festival?
I’m most looking forward to the sense of connection and transformation that happens at Know Other Festival. Every year, I see people arrive as strangers and leave with lifelong friendships, chosen family, and a deeper sense of belonging. There’s something incredibly powerful about being in a space that is intentionally designed for joy, healing, and self-expression, and I love watching attendees fully embrace that experience. I’m excited for the workshops and experiences that will help people tap into their wellness, whether it’s a movement class, a healing session, or a deep, thought-provoking discussion. The nighttime programming is always a highlight, and with this year’s Desert Disco Cowgirl theme, I know it’s going to bring an entirely new energy to the festival. I can’t wait to see people let loose at our dance parties, have heartfelt moments at fireside gatherings, and find joy in unexpected places. More than anything, I look forward to seeing people truly exhale, letting go of the outside world, immersing themselves in community, and leaving the festival feeling renewed, empowered, and deeply connected. That’s the magic of Know Other Festival.

Talk about what the festival has to offer
Know Other Festival offers a variety of experiences designed to foster healing, joy, self-expression, and deep connection. With over 30 dynamic workshops and sessions led by queer facilitators, healers, and artists, attendees can immerse themselves in activities that support wellness, movement, creativity, and personal growth. Whether it’s a morning yoga session, an interactive discussion, or a hands-on healing practice, each moment is crafted to encourage self-discovery and transformation.

The festival also features a diverse lineup of LGBTQ+ performers, including live music and DJs, bringing high-energy performances that complement the daytime experiences. Evening programming offers a mix of celebratory and community-focused events, providing space for attendees to connect, dance, and embrace their full selves in a welcoming, affirming environment.

For those seeking self-care and wellness, Know Other provides access to therapeutic vendors, massage services, and holistic practitioners who focus on nurturing mental, emotional, and physical well-being. The festival’s community-driven marketplace showcases LGBTQ+ businesses, offering unique crafts, art, and products that reflect the spirit of the event.

Set in Jacumba Hot Springs, California, the festival provides a stunning natural backdrop, allowing attendees to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with themselves and their community. With accommodation options including tent camping, RV spaces, car/van camping, and luxury yurts, plus amenities like a pool and hot water showers, the experience is designed for both comfort and adventure.

New Location, a new adventure. Can you tell us about the new site?
This year, Know Other Festival is heading to Jacumba Hot Springs, California, an incredible new location that perfectly aligns with our vision of healing, connection, and liberation in nature. Nestled in the stunning desert landscape, this site offers breathtaking views, open skies, and a sense of peaceful seclusion, allowing attendees to fully disconnect from the outside world and immerse themselves in the festival experience.

Jacumba Hot Springs provides the perfect backdrop for our wellness and community-driven programming. Whether you’re looking to participate in transformative workshops, engage in deep conversations, or dance under the stars, the environment is designed to support both rest and celebration.

This new location isn’t just a change of scenery, it’s a new chapter for Know Other Festival, one that allows us to expand our vision and deepen the experience for our community. It’s an adventure waiting to unfold, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to this incredible space of queer joy, healing, and self-discovery.

How can folks get involved?
There are many ways for folks to get involved with Know Other Festival, whether as attendees, volunteers, vendors, or performers.

If you want to attend, the best way to support the festival is by grabbing your ticket early and spreading the word. This festival thrives on community, and bringing friends or sharing the experience helps us grow and create an even more impactful space.

For those looking to volunteer, we offer opportunities to be part of the team that helps bring the festival to life. Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community, meet new people, and contribute to the magic of the festival. Volunteers play a key role in everything from welcoming attendees to supporting workshops and ensuring the festival runs smoothly.

If you’re a vendor or performer, we’d love to connect! Know Other Festival is committed to uplifting LGBTQ+ businesses and artists that align with our mission. Whether you’re interested in setting up a booth or bringing your talents to the stage, we welcome partnerships that enrich the experience for our attendees.

For sponsors, Know Other Festival provides a unique opportunity to connect with a deeply engaged and loyal community. We offer customizable sponsorship packages that provide meaningful brand visibility while directly supporting a festival built on inclusivity, empowerment, and wellness. Sponsoring Know Other is more than just brand exposure, it’s a chance to invest in a space that creates lasting impact for LGBTQ+ women, nonbinary, and trans folks. If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, let’s talk about how we can create something powerful together.

Applications for vendors, and talent can be found on our website under Get Involved. For general inquiries or to explore other ways to get involved, reach out to yinka@knowotherfestival.com.