Rising Stars: Meet Kais Boukthir

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kais Boukthir. They and their team shared their story with us below:

Kais Boukthir is a Tunisian-born actor and model who has overcome countless obstacles to live as his true authentic self. Growing up in a country and community that did not accept the LGBTQ community, Kais struggled with rejection and the inability to be his true self. However, his tenacity and spirit never wavered.

In 2017, Kais was awarded a scholarship to attend the University of Southern Indiana. While there, he decided to claim refuge in the US for being gay, a decision that ultimately led him to discover his passion for creating content on TikTok. Kais began making funny skits and lifestyle videos, determined to be a voice for those like him who are LGBTQ, Arab, and Muslim.

Kais’ unique story caught the attention of HBO’s “We’re Here” casting directors, and he was selected to be a part of the documentary series’ second season. Kais’ episode highlighted his struggle with rejection and his journey toward self-acceptance. After the episode was filmed, Kais decided to prioritize his own happiness and live his truth, coming out to his mother one last time. His mother finally accepted him for who he is after years of rejection.

Kais’ journey was not easy, but he persevered. He quit his job, packed everything he could into his car, and moved to Los Angeles to pursue his dream of acting and modeling. Despite not knowing much about the industry, Kais was committed and determined to succeed. His hard work paid off, as he guest-starred on HBO’s “The Sex Lives of College Girls” and collaborated with major brands like Sephora, Lexus, and Doordash. He also appeared on MTV’s “Date My Playlist” and Prime’s “Show Me Yours.”

Kais Boukthir’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the courage to be true to oneself. He is an inspiration to all those who face rejection and discrimination, and he is committed to fighting for a world where everyone can live their most authentic life. Kais is bold, brave, and unapologetically himself, and he is here to make a difference.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It wasn’t. Being a minority (Arab, Gay, Muslim and a refugee) and also being completely on my own in a strange country definitely was a challenge.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am an Actor, model and content creator also known as an LGBTQ spokesperson/activist.

Who else deserves credit in your story?
Yes. Shangela (the drag queen) was my drag mother and a parent figure met during HBO’s “We’re here” where she encouraged me to prioritize my happiness and put myself first and to follow my dreams.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @kayeshurricane
• Other: Tiktok: tiktok.com/Kayeshurricane

Image Credits
– Johnnie Ingram – Yasmim Masuko – HBO