Based in Edmonton, Stephen James began his journey at GATE in 1980 as a peer counsellor, where he developed a passion for supporting others and fostering community connections. He studied Drama and English at the University of Alberta, and he was instrumental in the formation of the LGBT student association.

Stephen moved to Vancouver in 1990 where he volunteered with organizations such as AIDS Vancouver, the British Columbia Persons With AIDS Society (BCPWA), and the Vancouver Queer Film Festival, demonstrating a deep commitment to social justice, advocacy and community support. During his career he worked for the UBC Faculty of Medicine in epidemiology, and Health Canada/The Public Health Agency of Canada in community development overseeing funding programs (e.g. AIDS Community Access Program, HepC Community-based Funding Program) for BC/Yukon and providing financial support to community groups such as the Pacific AIDS Network, YouthCO and the Positive Women’s Network. He also contributed to policy development around Canada's response to HIV/hepatitis C and blood-borne pathogens and presented findings on Grief and Community Organizations at the International AIDS Conference in Barcelona.

In recent years, Stephen has focused on building the Radical Faeries community in Edmonton, fostering a space for creativity, acceptance, support and empowerment. Now retired, he is dedicated to promoting safe housing for LGBTQ2+ seniors and allies, continuing to champion justice, diversity and inclusivity within the community.