Inspire Resource

trying to stay employed, and I knew that it could
be hard for T-girls in employment. Not only did I
have to deal with the normal challenges of getting
to work like transport, and figuring out what to
wear. I also had to deal with discrimination in
the workplace and other peoples’ issues with my
identity. I was reminded of the struggles I had
been through to get to where I was. One day I
really thought about my strengths and decided
that I would go back to study. I had always
doubted myself in everything I had done but this
idea I had of becoming a social worker was of no
doubt and I knew that was my calling in life.
I came back to New Zealand determined to start
afresh. I went and signed up at Manukau Institute
of Technology graduating in a certificate in Social
Services then going on to Te Wananga o Aotearoa
to complete a Bachelor of Applied Social Work
degree.
Since making the decision to really follow my
calling, I was offered a job as a LGBTQI Youth
Support worker and was even elected to be a
youth representative for the Mangere / Otahuhu
Local Board with the Auckland Council Youth
Advisory Panel. Being offered these roles meant
so much to me. I didn’t say yes straight away as I
needed time to think and ask myself am I the best
person for this role? What do I have to offer? And if
my intentions of wanting these opportunities are
pure. After serious consideration I accepted.
I am very proud of all that I have accomplished so
far. I was determined to achieve the many goals
I have set for myself. It is not always easy. Having
to study and work can be very overwhelming but
so rewarding when I look at how far I have come.
I look back at all those people who doubted me
and said “you can’t” and I think “thank you for
making me work even harder to get here”. I believe
that being transgender shouldn’t be a barrier to
anyone chasing their dreams. Your goals are
achievable if you work hard at everything you do.
My message to our younger generation blooming
and our parents of LGBTQI children is that: you are
not alone. We have a wide spread community of
younger and older generations in our back yard.
Seeking support is ok and by working together a
culture of unity is formed. Learning is reciprocal
and relationships will get stronger.
Life is a blessing.
When you’re feeling down talk
to someone, it helps.