When I look at my life now, I can honestly say I’m proud of the woman I’ve become. Living as a transgender woman in the United Kingdom today isn’t always easy—but it is real, and it’s mine. And that, more than anything, gives me strength.
There are days when being visible feels like a battle. The news cycle can be draining, and hearing people debate my identity—my existence—as if it’s an abstract topic still stings no matter how used to it I think I am. Healthcare waits can feel endless, and simply walking down the street sometimes demands more bravery than most people will ever know. These moments are part of my reality, and part of the reality many of us in the trans community face every day.
Some days I’m misgendered ( usually when I’m exhausted and on the phone) these days I don’t fight back I just think, they just aren’t thinking or are just not bright enough to get it right. A lot of HR departments certainly appear to be lacking in their staff training especially of their call handlers, insurance companies appear the worst for mis identifying.
Just tell them bluntly I’m transgender and have a deeper voice than expected on the telephone, 90% of them instantly apologise, situation dealt with in one hit and I’m in charge of the conversation going forward.
But even with the challenges, I’ve learned to hold onto the bright spots, because there are many.
I’ve met the most incredible people on this journey—other trans women, trans men, non-binary folks, and wonderful allies who show up with kindness, understanding, and open hearts. Little gestures mean the world: the stranger who smiles warmly, the friend who uses my name without hesitation, the family member who quietly tries their best even when they’re still learning.
And then there are the moments that feel like pure magic:
the first time I felt truly seen in the mirror, the first time someone called me “she” without a second thought, the days when life feels ordinary in the best possible way.
One thing I’ve realised is that living my truth isn’t just about me—it’s about visibility, about showing younger trans people that they’re not alone, and about adding another real human story to a world that needs more of them. Every time I show up as myself, I’m helping carve out a little more space in a society that’s still figuring things out.
Being a transgender woman in the UK today means navigating difficult times, yes—but it also means embracing joy, community, and a deep sense of self that I wouldn’t trade for anything.
To anyone reading this who’s on their own journey: you’re not alone. There’s strength in simply being who you are, even when the world feels loud. And even on the toughest days, I remind myself of one thing I know for certain:
I’m here. I’m me. And I’m proud to keep going.
