Monika: Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with Liliana, a vibrant and inspiring 23-year-old video blogger from Texas. Her YouTube channel, "Sincerely, Liliana," beautifully documents her journey of self-discovery and transition, providing a source of support and encouragement to countless others in the transgender community. With a passion for beauty, she showcases her talent as a freelance hairstylist and makeup artist, creating captivating content that resonates with viewers.
Liliana: Hello Monika! Thank you so much for this opportunity!
Monika: Could you introduce yourself and share a little about who you are?
Liliana: Well I'm a 23-year-old girl from Texas. I'm a freelance hairstylist/makeup artist and I make beauty as well as transition videos on YouTube.
Monika: What inspired you to share your transition journey on YouTube?
Liliana: Well, I remember back when I was still in the early stages of my transition, I stumbled across a few trans women who were documenting their transition on YouTube. At the time, I was feeling very alone, and even though I had such amazingly supportive friends and family, it was hard to talk to them about the things I was going through. So I turned to these women's videos, and it really helped me get through those rough times.
Now that I'm in a comfortable stage in my life and transition, I want to try and be that support for someone else. I feel it's important for us to be open and honest and educate the world about what being transgender really means, and YouTube is a great platform for that.
Sharing my story allows me to connect with others who may be experiencing similar challenges. It’s incredibly rewarding to receive messages from viewers who feel inspired or comforted by my journey. I also believe that visibility is key to changing perceptions and breaking down stereotypes. By sharing the ups and downs of my transition, I hope to foster a sense of community among those who may feel isolated. Ultimately, I want to show that embracing one’s true self is a beautiful journey worth celebrating.
Monika: Where are you in your transition journey right now?
Liliana: I've been on hormones for 5 years, and I feel very comfortable with where I'm at in my transition right now. I do plan on maybe getting a few cosmetic procedures in the near future, but that is something I am still deciding on. I'm terrified of going under the knife! While I still have some reservations about surgery, I'm also aware that it could enhance my confidence further. Ultimately, I want to make sure that any decision I make aligns with my personal goals and well-being.
Monika: Are you happy with the effects of hormone therapy? Has it met your expectations?
Liliana: I am very satisfied, however, my hormone therapy wasn't such a smooth ride. I had a health scare about a year ago because of my hormones but luckily everything turned out alright. I think sometimes people don't take hormones so seriously and get impatient about it. If you want a good and healthy transition you need a doctor's supervision!
Throughout my hormone therapy, I've experienced many changes, both physically and emotionally, which have contributed to my overall sense of self. I've learned to embrace my body as it evolves and appreciate the journey I've been on. Each step has brought me closer to the person I was always meant to be, and I’m excited about what the future holds.
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| "I'm in a comfortable stage in my life and transition." |
Monika: Could you share some memories from your childhood? When was the first time you felt that being a boy or a man didn’t align with who you truly were?
Liliana: I had a lot of good times and also a lot of very dark times as a child. I was always a very feminine, bubbly, and energetic kid. I spent most of my time with my grandma, and when I was alone I spent my time drawing. I remember I was also always thinking about my future and what I wanted to be when I grew up. I wanted to be everything from an architect to an actor to even Britney Spears.
Once I got to 2nd-3rd grade, I began getting bullied verbally and physically because I was so feminine, and it changed me forever. I became extremely shy and hardly ever talked, began to suffer from anxiety and panic attacks, and was even suicidal. I tried acting more masculine and tried my hardest to fit in, but it never really worked. I eventually just started expressing myself through fashion and then eventually makeup, and through all of that, I found myself.
Looking back, I realize that those difficult experiences shaped me into the person I am today. They taught me resilience and the importance of self-acceptance. My childhood struggles inspired me to advocate for others facing similar challenges. I want to show young people that it’s okay to embrace their true selves, no matter the obstacles. Ultimately, I believe that our past experiences can help us grow and connect with others on a deeper level.
Monika: Many transgender girls often find their time in school, college, or university to be particularly challenging due to discrimination. Did you have a similar experience?
Liliana: Most of the discrimination I faced was prior to my transition. Most of my bullying/discrimination happened to me as a child. I am very lucky to have not had to deal with very much discrimination after my transition. Of course, I've had, and still occasionally get rude people who feel the need to say negative and hurtful things, but at this point in my life, I don't let it bother me.
I'm living my life 100% the way I want to, and following my dreams; not very many people can say that. I believe that the strength I've developed from my experiences has helped me overcome challenges and negativity. Each encounter, whether good or bad, has shaped my perspective and made me more resilient. It’s crucial for those who face discrimination to remember that their worth is not defined by others’ opinions. I encourage anyone struggling with similar issues to seek out supportive communities, whether online or in person. Ultimately, embracing your true self can be incredibly empowering, and it’s worth every challenge faced along the way.
Monika: Are there any transgender role models who have inspired you or whom you look up to?
Liliana: There has definitely been a few transgender women who have inspired me. I remember seeing the very beautiful Maria Roman and Erica Andrews on a talk show 5 years ago. This was before I knew anything about being transgender and transitioning.
I remember watching that episode in awe. I was so amazed at how beautiful they all looked, and after hearing their stories, I knew that this was what I had been dealing with my whole life. I felt my life come full circle and felt inspired, and shortly after began my own transition. Most recently, I've also really admired Carmen Carrera's bravery with transitioning so publicly and her commitment to ending discrimination towards transgender women.
Additionally, I draw inspiration from other trans activists and content creators who share their journeys, as it reminds me that we are not alone in our struggles. Their visibility helps to break down stereotypes and foster acceptance within society. I believe that each of these role models has played a part in shaping a more inclusive world for future generations of transgender individuals.
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| "When people think of transgender women they quickly jump to what trashy talk shows have made transgender women out to be. It's not reality." |
Monika: What was the most challenging aspect of your coming out experience?
Liliana: I wasn't nervous to come out to my family because they've all always been really laid back and open-minded, and had many gay and lesbian friends. I think the hardest part for me was after coming out, and feeling I needed to meet certain social expectations and act/dress overly girly to be taken seriously. This pressure sometimes made me feel like I was putting on a performance rather than being my true self.
I also worried about how people would perceive me, which added to the anxiety of my transition. Over time, I learned that authenticity is more important than fitting into a specific mold. Now, I embrace my individuality and encourage others to do the same, reminding myself that it's okay to define femininity on my own terms.
Monika: How do you perceive the current situation of transgender women in American society?
Liliana: I think we've come a long way, but still have several more obstacles to get through. I feel like there are a lot of misconceptions and negative stereotypes about transgender women. When people think of transgender women, they quickly jump to what trashy talk shows have made transgender women out to be. It's not reality.
I think seeing more transgender women in the media and girls like us who share our stories online will hopefully start breaking down those preconceived ideas and will show the world who we really are. It's crucial for us to advocate for representation and visibility in all aspects of life, from politics to entertainment. By amplifying our voices, we can challenge the narratives that have long marginalized us. Education and awareness are key to fostering understanding and acceptance in society, and I'm optimistic that we're moving in the right direction.
Monika: Do you believe that we might see a transgender woman become President of the USA in our lifetime?
Liliana: I don't see why not. If we keep pushing forward, continue to share our stories, and educate, anything can happen. Representation has already come so far in politics, media, and entertainment, and it's only a matter of time before we see even bigger milestones.
The more people see transgender women in leadership roles, the more they will recognize that we are just as capable as anyone else. It will take breaking a lot of barriers, but history has shown that change happens when brave individuals step up and challenge the status quo.
I believe the younger generation is more open-minded and accepting, which gives me hope that one day, a transgender woman in the White House won’t seem impossible, it’ll just seem natural.
Monika: What’s your take on fashion? What types of outfits do you usually gravitate toward? Are there any specific designs, colors, or trends that you particularly love?
Liliana: I love fashion. I actually also wanted to be a fashion designer when I was little. I used to sketch little outfits out and even attempted to sew a dress out of my grandma's curtains! I love expressing myself through my clothing or my makeup, so my style is always changing. I like an edgy, laid-back feel. I love leather jackets and edgy jewelry pieces.
I also enjoy mixing feminine and masculine elements to create unique looks that reflect my personality. Some days, I feel like dressing ultra-glamorous, and other days, I just want to be comfy in oversized sweaters and ripped jeans. Black is definitely my go-to color, but I also love bold prints and metallic accents. Fashion, to me, is a way to tell the world who you are without saying a word. I think confidence is the key to making any outfit look amazing, so I always wear what makes me feel my best.
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| "I try to use my platform to spread awareness and positivity." |
Monika: Are you active in your local LGBT community?
Liliana: Sadly, no. I do see myself getting involved later on in my life. I've always wanted to work with LGBT teens whose parents have turned their backs on them. I was very lucky, and I'm very aware that not everyone has supportive parents, so I want to give back and do my part to make sure those kids don't ever feel alone. I think having a safe space and a strong support system can make a world of difference in a young person’s life.
Even though I’m not directly involved right now, I try to use my platform to spread awareness and positivity. I believe that even small actions, like sharing personal experiences or offering encouragement online, can help someone in need. Representation is so important, and I want to be someone who younger trans people can look up to. When the time is right, I’d love to dedicate more of my energy to making a real impact within the community.
Monika: Do you have plans to get married and start a family? Can you share what love means to you and how it plays a role in your life?
Liliana: Of course I do. I've been with my boyfriend for 3 years already, and we act like an elderly married couple! We are parents to 2 dogs. We plan to someday have a huge ranch and adopt many more dogs... and maybe a kid or two. Love has been the foundation of my happiness and growth, both in my relationship and in my personal journey. My boyfriend has been my rock, supporting me through every stage of my transition and reminding me that I am loved for who I truly am.
I believe that having a partner who understands and uplifts you makes life’s challenges easier to face. At the same time, self-love is just as important, learning to accept and embrace myself has been a huge part of my happiness. Whether it’s romantic love, friendship, or even the love I have for my dogs, it all plays a role in making life beautiful.
Monika: What advice would you give to transgender women who are hesitant about early transition due to fears of discrimination and hatred?
Liliana: Pay no mind to negative people, and do what's best for you. People will always talk and pass judgment. Just remember that everyone is living their lives the way they want to, and you deserve the same. Surround yourself with supportive friends, even if that means creating a chosen family. Seek out online communities or local LGBTQ+ groups where you can connect with others who understand your experiences.
Transitioning is a personal journey, and there is no right or wrong way to do it, go at your own pace. Be kind to yourself, and celebrate every milestone, no matter how small. Most importantly, never forget that you are valid, worthy, and deserving of love and happiness.
Monika: What are your current goals and plans for the immediate future?
Liliana: At the moment I am working on my freelancing career as a hair and makeup artist, and plan to continue making my videos on YouTube and hope I can inspire just one person by sharing my story. In the next 5-7 years I see myself running a successful salon and hopefully still doing something to help inspire and change the world.
Monika: Would you say that you are a happy woman now?
Liliana: I am a very happy woman. It's been such a long bumpy road getting here, but I wouldn't change anything.
Monika: Liliana, it was a pleasure to interview you. Thanks a lot!
All the photos: courtesy of Liliana.
