Rajee Narinesingh’s story is one of beauty pursued with courage, and survival earned at a high cost. Born in Brooklyn and raised in Philadelphia, she came of age carrying a rich, layered heritage and a deep pull toward performance, expression, and becoming fully herself. From her early years in the arts to her studies at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, Rajee moved through the world with both vulnerability and determination, always aware that her life would require imagination as much as endurance. Coming out as a transgender woman in the late 1990s, Rajee’s transition unfolded in a time when information, safety, and medical access were often luxuries rather than rights. In her search to align her body with her identity, she became one of many trans women harmed by underground practices that thrived in the absence of affordable, legitimate care.
What followed was not only physical suffering, but isolation, shame, and years spent largely out of public view, carrying pain in silence while her body bore the consequences of betrayal and neglect. Yet Rajee did not disappear. She endured. With the help of compassionate medical professionals and the quiet insistence of friendship, she began the long, uncertain process of healing, not just physically, but emotionally. Alongside this journey, she continued to create. As an actress and singer, she claimed space for herself in film and music, refusing to be defined solely by trauma. Her role in Bella Maddo offered a glimpse of her depth and wit, a reminder that she was, and remains, a storyteller in her own right. Before her name became widely known, Rajee was already living a truth many preferred not to see, a truth about the costs trans women pay when society looks away. Her life, even before the spotlight found her, speaks to resilience without romance, survival without spectacle, and a fierce insistence on dignity.
Monika: In Beyond Face Value, you write openly about your experience with Oneal Ron Morris and the devastating consequences that followed. What was it like to revisit and write about that chapter of your life?
Rajée: Writing Beyond Face Value was an emotional journey, and it was definitely the hardest book for me to write. I’ve written several books before, but this one required me to dive deep into a painful and vulnerable part of my past. The decision to go to Oneal Morris for filler injections was one that I deeply regretted when the consequences started to surface. At that time, I didn’t realize the gravity of the situation. I trusted Morris because I believed she had some medical training, and I was just desperate to feel more feminine.
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Available via Amazon. |
Monika: When you began to understand what had actually been injected and how your body was reacting, how did that realization affect you?
Rajée: What followed, realizing that the substances injected into me were not only toxic but also caused physical harm, was something I never imagined I’d have to face. It took years for me to come to terms with my body’s reaction and the stigma I felt.
Monika: Your autobiography reflects resilience and transformation, and you write that we can never truly see ourselves the way the world does. Looking back, did you ever feel you were meant for a very different path than the one you started on, and that the challenges you faced were guiding you toward something greater?
Rajée: Oh, absolutely. There have been moments in my life when I felt like I was on a completely different path than everyone else, and it felt like life was constantly pushing me away from the normal, the comfortable, and what people expected from me. I grew up facing racism, ignorance, and rejection. It wasn’t easy, but I do believe that every challenge I faced was somehow part of a larger journey, one that would eventually lead me to a place where I could speak my truth and help others do the same.
Monika: When you look back now, how do you see those struggles shaping the woman and the voice you became?
Rajée: It wasn’t always clear at the time, but now, looking back, I can see how those painful experiences led me to a deeper understanding of myself, and how that struggle became my strength. I’ve realized that the things we go through aren’t just obstacles; they can be transformative forces. Even the most difficult times, like the botched injections I suffered, pushed me toward a platform where I could share my story with the world. In a way, it feels like I was meant to go through that pain to inspire others and show them that no matter what, you can still emerge stronger, more beautiful, and more aware of your own worth.
Monika: When your story entered the public eye and your deeply painful experience was suddenly shared on international platforms like Anderson Cooper 360 and Dr. Phil, how did it feel to see something so personal become a catalyst for public conversation? Did that visibility change the way you understood your own story, not just as trauma, but as a way to raise awareness about the dangers of unregulated cosmetic procedures and the realities transgender people face?
Rajée: It was surreal, to be honest. At 44, I never expected to find myself on national and international television, speaking out about something so personal and traumatic. But I also knew that this was an opportunity I had to seize. After the media attention, I realized that my pain wasn’t just mine to carry anymore; it had become a conversation, a way to educate others about the dangerous realities of unregulated surgeries and the immense challenges that transgender people face.
Monika: You often speak about identity as something layered rather than singular. Growing up between Brooklyn and Philadelphia, with such a richly multicultural family background, how did those early experiences shape the way you understood yourself long before you had language for your full truth?
Rajée: Growing up in such a diverse cultural environment definitely shaped who I am today. My father’s Indo-Trinidadian heritage and my mother’s blend of French, Afro-Trinidadian, and Polynesian roots gave me a unique perspective on identity from a young age. I’ve always been aware that my identity is a blend of many different influences, and that’s something I fully embrace.
Monika: As you moved through life carrying those intersecting identities, race, culture, and later gender, how did that complexity influence your resilience and your understanding of what it means to become whole?
Rajée: I think that experience also helped me develop resilience in the face of adversity. As a transgender woman, I’ve often had to navigate the complexities of multiple identities, race, gender, and culture, and understanding the fluidity of identity early on made me more open to the idea that our journey is about integrating all parts of ourselves. In terms of activism, I draw strength from that multicultural background, understanding that each of us is shaped by our unique stories and struggles.
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| LITTLE RAJEE. The little girl was peeking out! |
Monika: How does that lived understanding of complexity now inform the way you show up for others, especially in your advocacy and work within the LGBTQ+ community?
Rajée: My upbringing taught me to stand firm in my identity, no matter how complex it may be, and that’s something I try to share with others, especially in my work with the LGBTQ+ community. I think it’s this cultural diversity that has given me the ability to relate to so many different people and to fight for justice on multiple fronts.
Monika: For a number of years you expressed your creativity through dance, acting, fashion, music, and literature. Out of all these forms, which one feels closest to your heart?
Rajée: I would have to say acting on film & TV and writing! They allow me to express myself in the most authentic and fulfilling way.
Monika: You played the principal role of Aunt Norma in Bella Maddo, an all‑transgender production that also featured the famous model Isis King. What drew you to the project, and how did you find working with Isis?
Rajée: Bella Maddo is such a groundbreaking project! It’s truly the first of its kind. With an all-trans cast playing non-trans roles. It was refreshing to me as a trans actress to be able to play something other than the stereotypical transsexual prostitute/drug addict! Being part of something so innovative made the experience even more meaningful.
Monika: Looking at the broader picture, how do you see the current situation of transgender women in American society?
Rajée: I feel that things have gotten better for trans women here in America but there is still a great amount of discrimination we deal with. There is progress, but we still have a long way to go.
Monika: When you were transitioning, did you have any transgender role models to look up to, or were you navigating mostly on your own? How much did you know about transgender identity back then?
Rajée: I would see other trans girls out in the gay clubs but I really didn’t have a close trans girlfriend at the time to guide me. I kind of found my own way and then as I came out more I began to connect with other trans girls. It was a journey of learning through experience rather than guidance.
Monika: Thinking back to that period, what turned out to be the most difficult part of coming out?
Rajée: Dealing with the negative ways people treated me because of my transgenderism. It was emotionally exhausting to face judgment simply for being myself.
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| THE ACTIVIST IN HER. Transsexuals are people too! |
Monika: When you look at how transgender stories have been portrayed in films, newspapers, and books over the years, what stands out to you the most?
Rajée: Thank God it is getting better. But for the longest trans people were featured as freaks. We were not being taken seriously. It has gotten a lot better now that people and society is more educated about transgenderism but we still have a long way to go. I’m grateful that more authentic and respectful narratives are finally emerging.
Monika: Shifting to civic life for a moment, how do you see your own engagement with politics, whether through activism, lobbying, or simply showing up, and do you feel transgender women can influence the political landscape?
Rajée: I certainly think women can make a big difference in politics. I actually think if more women were running the world there would not have been as many wars. Lol, I am a lot more involved in an activist capacity. I believe visibility and advocacy from trans women can inspire real social change.
For example, I have participated in lobbying to get transgender people added to the human rights ordinances in three different cities.
Monika: Looking back at the history of LGBTQ+ activism, do you see anyone within today’s transgender community whose impact echoes, even in spirit, the kind of work Harvey Milk was doing in the 60s and 70s?
Rajée: Off the top of my head I can’t really think of any trans activist that is like Harvey Milk. But I am happy to say that many transgender people are advocating in their own unique ways. We are letting the world know that we are here and that we are relevant. Monika, you are an activist for writing this publication. Many of us are playing an important role in the transgender equality movement. Every voice contributes to the momentum we’re building together.
Monika: When you reflect on everything you’ve lived through, how would you describe the role that love plays in your life today?
Rajée: I believe that love is the core of what all of us human beings are. Some people are at a place where they are disconnected from it. But I do feel that love transcends all of eternity. God’s love is actually the most important thing in my life and it is the reason why I have been able to get through many of my hardships. It continues to guide me and keep me grounded every single day.
Monika: Turning to something lighter, how would you describe your personal style, what you enjoy wearing, what inspires you, and what makes you feel most yourself?
Rajée: I am definitely a girly girl. I love big hair, lots of make-up, jewelry, and colorful outfits. But I do always look for a sale! Lol. Fashion is just another way for me to express my joy and personality.
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| RAJEE speaking at the Wilton Manors Pride Center for the International Transgender Day of Remembrance. |
Monika: And what about transgender beauty pageants, how do you feel about their place in our community and culture?
Rajée: Sometimes pageants can be a little catty. But I think that they are nice. I’ve just never been a pageant girl myself. Still, I appreciate that they give many girls a platform to shine.
Monika: Before we finish, I’d love to hear what’s currently inspiring you, are there any new projects or creative paths you’re exploring right now?
Rajée: Well I continue to do activist work for the LGBT community and my public speaking. I am currently working on some new music. I’m also in talks with a few producers about participating in some up-and-coming TV shows. I’m excited to see where these opportunities may lead.
Monika: Rajée, your story is both a warning and a source of hope. It shows how the pursuit of beauty can make us vulnerable, but also how resilience and self-love can transform tragedy into strength. You remind us that true beauty lies in courage, perseverance, and knowing our worth. Thank you for sharing your story and inspiring so many.
All the photos: courtesy of Rajée Rajindra Narinesingh.
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