Miss saHHara is a British-Nigerian beauty queen, model, singer, and pioneering human rights advocate. In 2014, she made history as the first black transgender woman to be crowned winner of Super Sireyna Worldwide in the Philippines. She had previously become the first Nigerian trans woman to come out publicly through her participation in Miss International Queen 2011 in Thailand, where she earned the title of first runner-up. These achievements marked a turning point for transgender visibility, especially for African LGBTQ+ individuals. Born and raised in a conservative village in northern Nigeria, Miss saHHara endured severe bullying, abuse, and imprisonment simply for expressing her identity. After surviving two suicide attempts, she fled to the UK in 2004, determined to live freely and authentically. In London, she found community, began her gender-affirming journey, and flourished in her education, earning a Master’s degree in Digital Media from London Metropolitan University in 2011. Beyond pageantry, Miss saHHara has walked the runway at London Fashion Week, graced the covers of magazines, and held a long-standing music residency in London. Through her visibility and activism, Miss saHHara has challenged transphobia, especially in Nigeria, where anti-LGBTQ+ laws threaten lives. She remains a powerful voice for human rights and a symbol of resilience, beauty, and self-determination.
Monika: Hello, Miss saHHara! I have to confess, I'm a huge fan. You’re a true trailblazer and such a powerful inspiration to so many of us!
Miss saHHara: Aww, thank you so much, Monika! That really means a lot to me, I'm honored!
Monika: Your voice has been compared to legends like Nina Simone, what an incredible compliment! Are there any singers you personally admire or draw inspiration from, either vocally or stylistically?
Miss saHHara: Yes, I have been told I sound like Nina Simone, Ella Fitzgerald, and Heather Small from M People. I find it humbling because they are the greats! I am influenced by the looks, glamour, and stage presence of Shirley Bassey. Their artistry has helped shape the performer I strive to be.
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| Choose Life! Not Suicide! (YouTube) |
Monika: You've touched so many lives with your voice. Can you tell us how your journey as a singer began and how it has evolved over the years?
Miss saHHara: I began singing and writing songs at the age of twelve in Nigeria. I found solace in music through the church due to a rather troubled and confused childhood because of the identity I was assigned at birth. So, when I moved to the United Kingdom to live my life openly, I decided to pursue my music career a bit farther.
I have had a singing residency at a lovely venue in London for the past 10 years. Music is my life; being creative in writing and producing gives me joy and satisfaction. I have written and produced over fifty songs, and I am planning to release an album in the future. One of my proudest moments was performing one of my original songs at a pride event, where the crowd sang along.
Monika: You've graced both the stage and the runway. What has your experience in the modeling world been like, and how has it influenced your self-expression?
Monika: You've graced both the stage and the runway. What has your experience in the modeling world been like, and how has it influenced your self-expression?
Miss saHHara: Yes, I was modeling full time a few years back when I was a lot younger and skinnier. The fickle fashion industry tends to cast out older models once we pass the so-called ideal age, unless you're a famous name. Modeling is quite fun. I do it part-time at the moment, just as a muse for certain designers and photographers. It allows me to explore different aspects of my identity through fashion and visual storytelling.
Monika: There's often talk about beauty being a form of power. Do you feel that your appearance has played a role in how you express confidence or empowerment?
Miss saHHara: Hahahahaha, beauty fades, darlings. I think I’m okay in that department. I always say makeup does magic! So I guess it is empowering to look glamorous, but I don’t rely on my looks to achieve anything in life. Confidence, for me, comes from within and from knowing who I am.
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| Modelling. |
Monika: With your strong stage presence and charisma, have you ever considered diving into the world of acting more seriously?
Miss saHHara: Yes, I have done a bit of acting in the past; I have been featured in some movies and adverts. I haven’t posted my acting clips online. I wanted to be taken more seriously as a singer and a model. I am also quite self-critical in everything I do. I cringe when I see myself acting in films. I guess it is the Virgo in me. LOL! Still, it's a fun creative outlet, and I wouldn’t rule out doing more if the right opportunity comes along.
Monika: You've made a powerful mark in the world of transgender beauty pageants. In 2011, you came incredibly close to winning Miss International Queen, the prestigious pageant held in Thailand that celebrates the beauty and talent of transgender women from around the globe. What was that experience like for you?
Miss saHHara: Yes, I did! It was an amazing experience. I did it as part of a documentary and also to highlight the plight of LGBT people in Nigeria. It is painful to come that close and not win, but it was also a blessing to come second, since all the contestants looked stunning. I’ll be joining other international pageants next year to raise more awareness of transphobia in Africa. Wish me luck! (Giggles) I'm proud to use every platform I can to amplify voices that are often silenced.
Monika: One of the most beautiful aspects of pageantry is the lifelong bonds it can create. Did you form any lasting friendships with your fellow contestants?
Miss saHHara: Yes, I made sisters for life. We keep in touch often on Facebook and Skype, and we are planning a reunion in the future. It’s amazing how a shared experience like that can bring people together from all over the world, we support and uplift each other to this day.
Monika: During your transition, were there any transgender role models who inspired you or guided you along the way?
Miss saHHara: Not really, I transitioned quite late. I had fellow sisters in the club scene who helped me with information. I was also able to do more research and educate myself about my confusions online. Learning more about April Ashley and other trans veterans helped to normalize my journey into womanhood. Their courage gave me strength and hope that I could live my truth fully and proudly.
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| The Miss International Queen pageant (2011). |
Monika: Looking back, what would you say was the most challenging part of coming out as your true self?
Miss saHHara: Being rejected by family, friends, and society. Islam and Christianity control much of society in Nigeria. Most Nigerians have radical views on all aspects of human life due to the influence of American evangelical Christians and Sharia Law. Many people have negative misconceptions and the wrong information when it comes to gender variances. It was emotionally draining, but it also pushed me to become stronger and more determined to live authentically.
Monika: How would you compare the experiences of transgender women in British society with those in Nigeria today?
Miss saHHara: The United Kingdom has come a long way when it comes to human rights and transgender rights; it is a huge contrast to Nigeria. In the UK, there are professional healthcare advisers and doctors who treat gender disorders and confusions with great understanding. I have the freedom to achieve like any other British citizen.
In Nigeria, on the other hand, people like me are non-existent. Gay people are driven underground by hate and misunderstanding. Most gay men are married to women in fear of persecution and murder. Nigeria is a hundred years behind the Western world; the laws are made based on religious beliefs.
The government recently passed an Anti-LGBT law, dishing out 14 years’ imprisonment for LGBT people, and 11 years for friends, family, and people who associate with LGBT individuals. It is very sad. What Africa needs is education and the separation of government from religion. I still hold hope that change will come, but it requires courageous conversations and a collective push for human rights.
Monika: Do you believe transgender rights are becoming one of the most important human rights issues of our time?
Monika: Do you believe transgender rights are becoming one of the most important human rights issues of our time?
Miss saHHara: I don’t think it is new; it has always been there. It is the ‘T’ in LGBT. Unlike lesbian and gay, it has been the silent character in the LGBT. Young trans activists are now emerging, and trans people are more confident in speaking out against injustice and discrimination. We have a few visible trans women in the media, which should change in the near future as the world advances.
In the past, it was taboo to talk about gender issues because they were seen as ‘strange’ and embarrassing. Now we are trying to make people understand that we are normal like every other human being, with blood running through our veins. We just happen to have a history and a corrected birth defect. Misgendering of trans women is another huge issue we are dealing with in the media; it hinders our progress in influencing people’s perceptions of gender variance. With continued visibility and advocacy, I believe we can create a more inclusive future for the next generation.
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| Modelling. |
Monika: Do you see politics as a platform where transgender people can drive real change? Are you involved in any political or advocacy campaigns yourself?
Miss saHHara: Transgender people can make positive contributions in their various communities if given the chance. It is quite common that we are not allowed to have certain types of jobs or powerful opportunities because of our life histories. Anybody with the right talent for the job should be given the opportunity to prove himself or herself. In reality, it is not always so, unfortunately.
But some parts of the world are a bit more evolved in their views on gender. For example, in Thailand, although trans people are not legally recognized, they are socially celebrated and accepted for their talents. The beautiful Nok Yollada is a celebrated transgender businesswoman in government. I believe more visible representation in politics can help shape inclusive laws and challenge the stigma we face globally.
Monika: In your journey, how has love shaped your sense of self and personal growth?
Miss saHHara: Love is a beautiful element in everyone’s life. It depends on how the love is disseminated and acquired. I always say, love yourself first, then you will attract positive attention from others. If you don’t love and accept yourself as the person you’ve always felt you are, then you can never be happy, thus attracting the wrong kind of people into your life. If you love and respect yourself, you will be self-sufficient enough to live your life peacefully and happily without needing to seek the wrong kind of love from others. So yes, love is important, love and put yourself first. I’ve learned that the love we give ourselves sets the standard for the love we allow from others.
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| The Miss International Queen pageant (2011). |
Miss saHHara: Not really, I wear what suits my body shape. I still have the figure for fun, sexy outfits, so I wear lots of figure-hugging attire. I love my high-heel shoes too, I'm 5’11” and in heels about 6’3” or more, but I don’t care that I look abnormally tall for a woman. Lol.
Monika: You always look so stunning and fit! What’s your secret to staying in such great shape?
Miss saHHara: Hahaha, I do? Thank you! I like staying slim and fit, probably for health reasons and also because there are more fashion options for women my size. I don’t follow any regimented fad diet; I just eat wisely and count the calories when I can. It can be difficult at times to be disciplined. I am very naughty with my food. I love food. LOL. Finding the right balance between indulgence and health has become part of my lifestyle over the years.
Monika: Many transgender women have chosen to share their journeys through memoirs. Have you ever considered writing a book about your own life?
Miss saHHara: Yes, I have thought of it, but I did not want to rush into it. I haven’t reached the climactic point of my life yet, I still have so much more to achieve. I will write my memoirs when I feel I can truly inspire others through my life story and experiences. What I am more focused on doing is making videos about gender confusion and variations, how difficult it is to find love as a trans woman, and other practical life issues we face every day. The memoirs and books will come later, when I’m older. There’s something powerful about sharing our truth in the right moment, and I want mine to come from a place of growth and wisdom.
Monika: What are your current goals, and where do you envision yourself in the next five to seven years?
Miss saHHara: I am planning to do my PhD in the next few years in Gender and Sexuality Studies, and then have a baby. Those two are my top priorities. I’ll still continue to make music and fight for trans people all around the world by getting involved in different trans awareness projects. I’ll also be going back to Nigeria to shoot a film on how difficult life is for people who are born different from the majority. I have a few educational projects in the pipeline as well. I’m looking forward to the future. I believe that living authentically while contributing to society is the most powerful way to create lasting change.
Monika: What advice would you give to transgender girls who are considering a career path like yours?
Monika: What advice would you give to transgender girls who are considering a career path like yours?
Miss saHHara: I am involved in so many things, but my professional career is in Digital Media. I’d say to the girls: get an education. It is very important to cement your future by obtaining a professional qualification. They need to remember that in every profession we choose to be in, we are subjected to more scrutiny than others; it is essential to have the right talent and confidence to compete with cisgender people. Beauty is only skin deep after all; looks can fade, but having intelligence and knowledge helps equip and guide anyone through their chosen careers.
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| "First Nigerian Transgender" (YouTube) |
As glamorous as being a model, actress, or singer sounds, it can also be our undoing. Wanting to impersonate famous idols can lead us to make some wrong decisions in life. They should focus on creating their own positive vision of themselves; this will help them have a secure future without resorting to desperate measures to earn money. Above all, staying true to yourself and being patient with your journey is the key to long-term success and happiness.
Monika: Miss saHHara, it’s been a pleasure talking with you. Thank you so much for sharing your story with us!
Miss saHHara: Thank you very much for interviewing me. I am truly flattered and humbled that you find me interesting enough. (Smiles) Kisses. I hope my story can inspire others to embrace who they are and live boldly.
All the photos: courtesy of Miss saHHara.
© 2014 - Monika Kowalska
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