Monika Donner, born on July 11, 1971, in Linz, Austria, has led a life marked by transformation, courage, and an unyielding pursuit of personal and professional excellence. Her journey weaves through the ranks of the Austrian military, the intricacies of legal expertise, the literary world, and the profound realms of self-discovery and advocacy. From an early age, Monika displayed both intellectual brilliance and a deep-seated resilience. She graduated from the esteemed Kollegium Aloisianum in 1989, after which she committed herself to a year of voluntary service in the Austrian Armed Forces. This initial foray into military life set the foundation for what would become a remarkable career, one that spanned the rigid hierarchies of the Bundesheer while also making space for her personal evolution. She continued her service in the militia, embodying both discipline and determination.
Her thirst for knowledge led her to the hallowed halls of Johannes Kepler University in Linz, where she pursued legal studies with a keen interest in justice and governance. In 2001, she earned her Magister degree in law and subsequently honed her expertise during a judicial internship in Linz. Armed with both military prowess and legal acumen, Monika embarked on a new chapter, stepping into the Ministry of Defense in 2002. There, she took charge of personnel management, navigating the intricate structures of bureaucracy while rising through the ranks to become Ministerialrätin. Yet, beyond the impressive façade of uniforms and legal documentation, Monika was waging a deeply personal battle. From an early age, she had sensed an incongruence between her external appearance and her inner self. For years, she lived a dual existence, by day, a dedicated officer in the Austrian military, and by night, Monique Dumont, a dazzling weekend diva and photo model. This complex balancing act was not merely a secret life but an expression of an identity yearning to be fully realized.
In 2009, Monika’s unwavering resolve led to a landmark moment in Austria’s legal history. She successfully challenged the system and won the right for transgender individuals to change their legal gender without undergoing mandatory surgical procedures, following a decision by the Constitutional Court. This victory was not only personal but also a beacon of hope for countless others seeking dignity and recognition. In 2010, she officially embraced her true identity, legally changing her name to Monika Donner, a name that carried the weight of struggle but also the triumph of self-acceptance. Beyond her legal battles and military career, Monika found another outlet for her boundless energy: writing. She became a certified life and social counselor in 2006, channeling her experiences into guiding others through their own transformations. Her literary endeavors culminated in the founding of Monithor publishing, through which she published works that were as provocative as they were enlightening.
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Verschwörungspraxis / Quer-Denken.tv Juli 2016. Monika Donner. Source: YouTube. |
Her first book, Tiger in High Heels, published in 2010, was far more than an autobiography; it was a manifesto of personal freedom, an exploration of psychology, society, and spirituality, all intertwined with her own remarkable life story. Her literary pursuits continued, and in 2014, she co-authored Normal war gestern with Peter Hajek, a satirical novel infused with spiritual depth, further cementing her reputation as a thinker who defied conventions and challenged norms. Through every uniform she wore, every courtroom she entered, every stage she graced, and every page she wrote, Monika Donner has carved out a legacy of fearlessness and authenticity. By 2014, she had already left an indelible mark, not just in Austria, but in the broader conversation about identity, justice, and the courage to live one's truth. Monika: Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Monika Donner, a former officer of the Austrian Armed Forces, independent consultant, and lawyer in the Ministry of Defense of Austria, the author of "Tiger in High Heels".
Hello, Monika! What a delightful moment, two fabulous ladies sharing not just a name, but also a wonderful conversation! It’s going to be a truly special meeting of Monikas!
Monika D: Hello Monika! Oh, absolutely! I'm so excited for this lovely conversation!
Monika: Many people struggle with defining themselves and their journey. How would you describe yourself and the path that led you to where you are today?
Monika D: I love to go my own way, my private way of love. In my childhood, I loved my big wild garden. When I entered kindergarten, I had to throw up because everything was strictly separated into girls and boys. As I grew older, I learned to play both gender roles perfectly until I decided to live as a woman, without letting doctors cut my genitalia.
Therefore, I had to fight against the old sexist/sadistic law by calling a high court. I won. Since then, I am free because I defended my inner child. I believe that true freedom comes from within, and no one should dictate how we define our identity. My journey has shown me that courage and authenticity always pay off in the end.
Monika: What inspired you to write your autobiography, Tiger in High Heels? Was there a particular moment or event that made you feel it was time to share your story?
Monika D: The impulse to write Tiger in High Heels came when I heard the inhumane speech of Pope Benedict in December 2008. It sounded to me like a diabolic witch hunt against all kinds of individualism. I felt that I had to defend the inner child of all transgender people against old men wanting to rape it.
Writing this book was not just about telling my story but also about giving a voice to those who have been silenced. I wanted to challenge outdated norms and inspire others to embrace their true selves without fear.
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| Monika in 2003. |
Monika: Your book title suggests a love for high heels. Would you say they are an essential part of your style and identity?
Monika D: Do I love high heels? I only have about 120 pairs of high heels, and I hug them every morning. Well: I love high heels. Each pair tells a story, and wearing them gives me confidence and power. High heels are not just fashion, they are a statement of strength and elegance.
Monika: What lessons from your journey do you think could inspire or empower other trans women?
Monika D: The experience of the ultimate power that lies within every one of us. Call it inner child, call it soul, or call it connection to God. It helps us go our own way. Once you tap into that power, no external judgment can break you. Trusting yourself is the key to living authentically and fearlessly.
Monika: You attended a Jesuit school, what are your most vivid memories from those years?
Monika D: Annoying. The teachers interrupted my dreams and laughing sessions with their weird school stuff … I was much more interested in my own imagination than their rigid lessons. But looking back, those moments of rebellion shaped my independent spirit.
Monika: You eventually joined the army, what motivated that decision, and what was the experience like for you?
Monika D: My grandpa was an officer in WWII, and I wanted to become an officer, too. The army gave me structure and led my way back to nature. It also taught me discipline, which later helped me in many areas of my life. But most importantly, it showed me the strength I had within myself.
Monika: After your military service, you worked at the Ministry of Defense. How did your transition from the army to the civilian world unfold?
Monika D: After studying law, I ended my career as a company commander in a tank brigade. I put off the uniform, entered the Austrian MOD, and in my free time, I studied some kind of psychotherapy. Then both of my personalities, “Centurio” (strong guy) and “Monique Dumont” (sexy weekend diva), mingled. Everything changed. It was a significant turning point, where I learned to balance both aspects of myself. Embracing both identities allowed me to find true inner harmony and freedom.
Monika: What do you think about the social roles of men and women in contemporary society?
Monika D: There are many social roles, and I think we cannot fulfill just one of them, because priests, politicians, and psychologists have had a lot of time to construct these little private hells. These roles are limiting and often impose unrealistic expectations on both men and women. It's time for individuals to define their own identities and live authentically, without being bound by outdated societal norms.
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| In the army. |
Monika: You fought tirelessly against a legal system that refused to accept a woman with male genitalia. Do you feel that your fight is over now?
Monika D: Yes, the fight is over and won. In 2009, the Austrian Supreme Constitutional Court shared my opinion that no one should be forced to have a genital operation. Now, we are free to change our name and sex without doctors fumbling and cutting in between our legs! In 2011, Germany and Italy followed. It was a long struggle, but it feels like a victory for everyone who’s faced this injustice. The legal landscape is finally changing, and more countries are starting to embrace the right to live authentically without medical intervention.
Monika: During your transition, did you have any transgender role models to look up to?
Monika D: Just my own: The one in my heart. I didn’t need anyone else’s example because I trusted my own journey. It was about discovering and becoming the person I truly was, rather than following someone else’s path.
Monika: What was the hardest part of your coming out journey?
Monika D: The hardest thing was not to come out. But my body forced me to come out of the closet: Hemorrhoids as big as cherries were the result of holding back, what was inside of me. As I walked into the army base as a woman for the first time, the “cherries” disappeared instantly and I felt as if I would fly. Well, I’ve been 5 inches closer to heaven – I’ve been wearing high heels! It was a liberating moment, and I realized that embracing who I truly am was the only way to truly feel free. The physical transformation matched the emotional freedom I finally achieved.
Monika: How do you view the current situation of transgender women in Austrian society?
Monika D: Now the law is on our side. It is our part to live as we want to live, to be kind and friendly – and to defend ourselves, if necessary. Transgender women are becoming more visible and accepted, but there are still challenges. The next step is to continue building awareness and understanding in society so that we are seen as equals, not as exceptions.
Monika: Are you involved in politics? Do you participate in any lobbying campaigns? And do you believe transgender women can make a difference in politics?
Monika D: I am not active in politics because I think that politics today is a kind of theatrical show performed by puppets on the strings of the rich. To make politics and life democratic again, we all (!) have to change ourselves. Love is the key: love for ourselves, our family, and nature. Transgender women, who are in touch with love and their inner child, could show others that individuality brings happiness. We have the power to inspire change by living authentically and leading by example.
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| The lady with a red high heel shoe. |
Monika: How do you see the role of love in your life, and what significance does it hold for you?
Monika D: Love is life. Love is everything. But how often can you read the word “love” in laws? How often can we hear about love in politics? This will change as soon as we learn to accept ourselves as loving beings. Love has the power to transform both individuals and societies. When we embrace love, we create a more compassionate and inclusive world for everyone.
Monika: How would you describe your personal style, and how do you express yourself through fashion? Do you follow any particular trends, or is it more about how you feel in the moment?
Monika D: I dress as I feel. Sometimes in heels, sometimes sporty, sometimes in New Rock Boots. But always with very long nails (hardened with UV-Gel). My way. Fashion is an extension of my mood and personality, it’s not about following rules, but about expressing myself authentically. I believe that confidence is the most important accessory to any outfit.
Monika: What are your current goals, and where do you envision yourself in the next 5-7 years?
Monika D: I feel good right now. So why think about the future? Okay: In 7 years, I will walk through the forest with Jasmin (my big love) near our wooden house in the countryside. I believe in living fully in the present, but I also dream of a peaceful, quiet life surrounded by nature and love. The future is always evolving, but I see it as an extension of the happiness and peace I'm building right now.
Monika: What advice would you give to transgender girls struggling with gender dysphoria?
Monika D: Find out what you really really need in life! Find your inner child and hug it. Then you will walk your own way right between the fields of dysphoria and euphoria. Your very own way. It’s important to trust your instincts and not let anyone define your journey for you. Embrace your truth, and remember that healing comes from within, not from external validation.
Monika: Monika, thank you for the interview! Thank you!
All the photos: courtesy of Monika Donner.
© 2014 - Monika Kowalska
Some publications about Monika Donner:
Der Soldat Monika
Director: Paul Poet Release Year: 2024 "Der Soldat Monika" (2024) is an intense and multifaceted documentary by Austrian filmmaker Paul Poet, which examines the life of Monika...
Monika Donner - Tiger in High Heels: Zweimal Käfig und zurück
Full title: "Tiger in High Heels. Warum ich in unserer Idiotengesellschaft als Frau leben muss" (Tigers in high heels. Why I have to live as a woman in our idiot society). Monika...
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