Leadership in real estate isn’t defined solely by sales volume or market expertise. It’s shaped by advocacy, representation, and the willingness to step forward when the community needs a voice. For Javier Puga-Phillips, that moment has arrived with his recent appointment as Vice President of Pride Connect, the official LGBTQ+ and ally affinity group within the Sotheby’s International Realty (SIR) network.
In this new role, Javier plans to help guide the organization’s future by strengthening visibility, expanding relationships across markets, and reinforcing the inclusive values that underpin the Sotheby’s International Realty brand.
From Relocation to Representation
Javier’s path to Pride Connect leadership is rooted in lived experience. After relocating to the Pacific Northwest at the beginning of the pandemic, he navigated the challenges many relocating clients face: unfamiliar neighborhoods, new professional relationships, and the underlying question of whether a place will truly feel like home.
For LGBTQ+ individuals, that uncertainty can be amplified. That reality stayed with Javier and ultimately led him to Pride Connect. What began as involvement quickly evolved into purpose: ensuring that no client, advisor, or colleague has to question whether they are welcome or supported.
What Pride Connect Means to Javier
Founded in 2019, Pride Connect is built on the belief that equality and human rights are foundational, not optional. The organization’s guiding principle, known as the Pledge, centers on equality for all persons and calls on members to lead with integrity, action, and accountability.
To Javier, Pride Connect represents far more than professional networking. It is a platform for advocacy, education, and meaningful connection.
A Vision Grounded in Growth and Global Reach
As he steps into leadership, Javier brings a clear and ambitious vision. One of his primary goals is to help establish strong LGBTQ+ or LGBTQ-friendly SIR advisor representation in every U.S. state, creating a trusted referral network for clients relocating across the country.
Fluent in both English and Spanish, Javier understands how language and cultural fluency play a critical role in building trust and accessibility—especially for clients navigating major life transitions.
Beyond domestic markets, Javier sees Pride Connect as a powerful global connector. With Sotheby’s International Realty’s international footprint, the organization is uniquely positioned to support clients relocating across borders, investing internationally, or seeking culturally aligned representation worldwide.
Pride Connect in Action: Building Community in Portland
Community building has always been central to Javier’s approach. In Portland, he has hosted annual Pride gatherings in Northeast Portland, partnering with local bars and restaurants to create inclusive spaces for connection and continued celebration.
These events have become a meaningful tradition, drawing friends, neighbors, and familiar faces year after year. For Javier, they serve as a reminder that Pride is not confined to a single weekend; it’s about sustained visibility, presence, and support throughout the year.
Featured: Javier Puga-Phillips and his husband, Isaac Puga-Phillips, during Javier’s 2nd annual Pride Event.
Giving Back Through Pride Connect
Charitable impact is a core pillar of Pride Connect’s mission. Membership contributions help support organizations aligned with LGBTQ+ advocacy and well-being, including past support of The Trevor Project, which focuses on crisis intervention and suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ youth.
Javier also shared that Pride Connect continually seeks opportunities to uplift smaller, community-based organizations—ensuring that giving back remains intentional, responsive, and rooted in real need.
Looking Ahead: GNE and Growing the Network
With his new leadership role, Javier plans to attend the upcoming Global Networking Event (GNE), Sotheby’s International Realty’s exclusive annual gathering, held this year in San Francisco. Set against the backdrop of the brand’s 50th Anniversary, the event offers a powerful opportunity to connect with fellow Pride Connect members, build new relationships, and engage advisors from markets not yet represented within the organization.
Momentum at Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Realty
Javier’s leadership trajectory also mirrors his professional growth at Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Realty. Since joining the brokerage, his sales volume has doubled year over year—reflecting a disciplined work ethic, a relationship-first approach, and a deep commitment to client service.
Licensed in Oregon, California, and Mexico, Javier supports clients with cross-market and international real estate needs through the Sotheby’s International Realty network, bringing a global perspective to every transaction.
As he steps into this defining moment with Pride Connect, Javier exemplifies what modern real estate leadership looks like: grounded in advocacy, powered by connection, and guided by the belief that everyone deserves to feel seen, supported, and at home.
Connect with Javier:
Javier Puga-Phillips I Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Realty
503.343.5561 I Website
Javier@JavierPDX.com