Jaroslava Brokešová, a remarkable woman whose life story reads like a cinematic script. A tram driver from Prague, Czech Republic, Jaroslava is also a former diva and one of the most charismatic transgender women in Central and Eastern Europe. She celebrates a life filled with courage, transformation, and creativity. This year, she marks a personal milestone, turning fifty while reflecting on twelve years since her gender reassignment surgery. A devoted mother of two, she balances family life with her work at the Prague Public Transport Company, where she drives trams and embraces the rhythm of ordinary life with extraordinary flair. Beyond her daily routine, Jaroslava has a thirst for adventure and learning. She enjoys swimming, biking, climbing via Ferrata, and traveling. Just last year, she sailed the Mediterranean on an 18th-century replica pirate ship, taking on the role of a cadet and exploring the challenges of life at sea. Her journey toward womanhood began at the age of thirty-eight, a process that took years of therapy, hormone treatment, and self-discovery, and one that she approached with determination and authenticity.
Before settling into a quieter life, Jaroslava shone on stage as a travesti performer, captivating audiences across the Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, and Slovakia. From comic sketches to live singing, her performances were a mix of cabaret, glamour, and theatrical daring, including unforgettable moments like performing a Scott Joplin number in full Marlene Dietrich style and delivering a show-stopping striptease. Her stage career was both a creative outlet and a lifeline during her transformative years, providing encouragement, joy, and the freedom to express herself fully. Today, Jaroslava is widely respected for her courage and openness. She is invited to television programs and recognized in the media, yet she remains grounded, valuing her ordinary life and professional achievements as much as her public presence. She offers guidance and support to younger transgender women, emphasizing the importance of confidence, self-acceptance, and living proudly. With a pragmatic yet inspiring approach, Jaroslava Brokešová exemplifies how authenticity, resilience, and a sense of adventure can shape a life that is both remarkable and deeply human.
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| The lady in white. |
Jaroslava: Hi, Monika. I am really pleased by your interest, and I’m happy to answer all your questions. I would also like to warmly greet all the readers of your blog! It’s lovely to share my story with such a curious and open-minded audience.
Monika: To start, could you tell us a little about yourself and what a typical day in your life looks like? Or perhaps share something unexpected about your personal adventures?
Jaroslava: This year I am celebrating a milestone. Although I underwent gender reassignment surgery twelve years ago, in fact, this April I will turn fifty. I have two children, a son who is 25 and a daughter who is 23, from my 15-year marriage with a woman. I live in a small town called Úvaly, near Prague, where I work for the Public Transport Company as a tram driver, navigating the streets and meeting many interesting people every day. Life may seem ordinary, but it is full of small joys and unexpected encounters.
Jaroslava: This year I am celebrating a milestone. Although I underwent gender reassignment surgery twelve years ago, in fact, this April I will turn fifty. I have two children, a son who is 25 and a daughter who is 23, from my 15-year marriage with a woman. I live in a small town called Úvaly, near Prague, where I work for the Public Transport Company as a tram driver, navigating the streets and meeting many interesting people every day. Life may seem ordinary, but it is full of small joys and unexpected encounters.
In my free time, I enjoy recreational sports such as swimming, biking, and climbing via Ferrata. I also love to travel, explore new places, and learn new things. Just last year, I went on a Mediterranean cruise aboard an 18th-century replica pirate ship called La Grace, where I had the thrilling opportunity to train as a cadet and learn naval craft firsthand. Experiences like that remind me that life always has room for adventure, no matter how routine it may seem.
Monika: Your life story could almost be a Hollywood film. You married in 1987, soon became a father, and then a decade later began your journey toward womanhood. How did you navigate such a profound transformation while balancing family and personal dreams?
Jaroslava: Yes, that is indeed my story! It could make an interesting Hollywood film, though I say that with a little humor. I was married for 15 years and had two wonderful children. The final years of my marriage were mentally demanding, not just for me, but also for my partner and children. I realized that our lives should not be dictated by my personal struggles, so I sought guidance from experts in sexology, and eventually, I fulfilled my dream of becoming a woman. It was a journey filled with challenges, but also with incredible moments of self-discovery and empowerment that shaped who I am today.
Monika: Your life story could almost be a Hollywood film. You married in 1987, soon became a father, and then a decade later began your journey toward womanhood. How did you navigate such a profound transformation while balancing family and personal dreams?
Jaroslava: Yes, that is indeed my story! It could make an interesting Hollywood film, though I say that with a little humor. I was married for 15 years and had two wonderful children. The final years of my marriage were mentally demanding, not just for me, but also for my partner and children. I realized that our lives should not be dictated by my personal struggles, so I sought guidance from experts in sexology, and eventually, I fulfilled my dream of becoming a woman. It was a journey filled with challenges, but also with incredible moments of self-discovery and empowerment that shaped who I am today.
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| Her tram. |
Monika: You had such a spectacular diva career in the 90s, performing in Kabaret SRDCE & KÁMEN as Vivian, Anděl s ďáblem v těle (Angel in a Devil's Body), and the EXCELLENT trio. What was it like to live on stage during those years, and how did it shape you as a person?
Jaroslava: My stage career was truly my salvation, giving me strength and encouragement during the most challenging times of my transformation. It helped me mentally and emotionally, offering a sense of purpose when I needed it most. I performed stage shows for five years, from 1998 to 2003, and during that time, I met many wonderful people and had a lot of fun. I was not a professional dancer, but performing travesti shows, which were completely new in my country, sparked great curiosity and excitement among audiences. I had the chance to perform not only in the Czech Republic, but also in neighboring countries like Germany, Austria, and Slovakia. Beyond singing and comedy, I learned a lot about stagecraft, timing, and connecting with people, which still benefits me in everyday life.
Jaroslava: My stage career was truly my salvation, giving me strength and encouragement during the most challenging times of my transformation. It helped me mentally and emotionally, offering a sense of purpose when I needed it most. I performed stage shows for five years, from 1998 to 2003, and during that time, I met many wonderful people and had a lot of fun. I was not a professional dancer, but performing travesti shows, which were completely new in my country, sparked great curiosity and excitement among audiences. I had the chance to perform not only in the Czech Republic, but also in neighboring countries like Germany, Austria, and Slovakia. Beyond singing and comedy, I learned a lot about stagecraft, timing, and connecting with people, which still benefits me in everyday life.
Monika: Thinking back, how big was the show business in the Czech Republic at that time? Were there any performances or divas that left a lasting impression on you, moments you still remember vividly?
Jaroslava: The show business back then was not all glamorous for me, though it was certainly a good business. Everything was quite costly, especially the elaborate costumes, and our group had to rent theaters across the country. But it was exciting work. Our repertoire went beyond classic performances; we were singers, magicians, comedians, it was truly a cabaret! Those years taught me discipline, teamwork, and creativity, and the joy of making audiences laugh and cheer gave me an incredible sense of accomplishment. I still remember the energy and thrill of every performance as if it happened yesterday.
Jaroslava: The show business back then was not all glamorous for me, though it was certainly a good business. Everything was quite costly, especially the elaborate costumes, and our group had to rent theaters across the country. But it was exciting work. Our repertoire went beyond classic performances; we were singers, magicians, comedians, it was truly a cabaret! Those years taught me discipline, teamwork, and creativity, and the joy of making audiences laugh and cheer gave me an incredible sense of accomplishment. I still remember the energy and thrill of every performance as if it happened yesterday.
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| The diva years. |
Jaroslava: I remember one show very clearly. A wealthy Czech entrepreneur was celebrating his birthday in Linz, Austria, at a disco. His employees had prepared a surprise and hired me as a stripper. I appeared on stage in Marlene Dietrich style, wearing a hat, tailcoat, garters, and high heels, and sang a Scott Joplin song from *The Sting* in German. I even invited the guest of honor onto the stage for a little playful strip-tease, followed by a performance of "I Am What I Am" from *La Cage aux Folles*. The audience loved it, cheering loudly, and the experience was exhilarating. Moments like that reminded me why performing was not just entertainment, but also a way to connect with people and create unforgettable memories.
Monika: That performance sounds incredible! Shifting gears a bit, how do you feel about the situation for transgender women in Czech society today? Have things changed since your own transition?
Jaroslava: I believe the situation has definitely improved in the Czech Republic. Today, transgender women are generally not discriminated against, though, of course, exceptions still occur and some prejudices remain, especially among older generations. It’s important for all of us to know how to protect ourselves and assert our rights when needed. Society is becoming more aware, and there are more conversations and resources available than when I first transitioned.
Jaroslava: I believe the situation has definitely improved in the Czech Republic. Today, transgender women are generally not discriminated against, though, of course, exceptions still occur and some prejudices remain, especially among older generations. It’s important for all of us to know how to protect ourselves and assert our rights when needed. Society is becoming more aware, and there are more conversations and resources available than when I first transitioned.
Monika: You have appeared on many TV shows and public events. Do you consider yourself a celebrity, or is it more about sharing your story and experiences?
Jaroslava: I wouldn’t call myself a real celebrity. I’m just an ordinary woman with an extraordinary life story. Ten years ago, I managed to stand up for my rights as a transgender woman, and that visibility has led to invitations to TV programs and coverage in Czech newspapers. I am grateful for the platform because it allows me to share my experiences and perhaps inspire others. Otherwise, I work like anyone else, and I’ve been fully accepted into society. At my job, I’m treated as a woman, respected, and not mocked, which is very important to me.
Jaroslava: I wouldn’t call myself a real celebrity. I’m just an ordinary woman with an extraordinary life story. Ten years ago, I managed to stand up for my rights as a transgender woman, and that visibility has led to invitations to TV programs and coverage in Czech newspapers. I am grateful for the platform because it allows me to share my experiences and perhaps inspire others. Otherwise, I work like anyone else, and I’ve been fully accepted into society. At my job, I’m treated as a woman, respected, and not mocked, which is very important to me.
Despite that, I do enjoy the occasional spotlight, I admit I’m a little exhibitionist, so it’s fun to participate in shows from time to time. One of my dreams is to become a film actress someday, bringing my personality and story to the screen in a way that is both entertaining and meaningful.
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| In the army (1984 - 1986). |
Monika: Looking at Czech films, newspapers, or books, what are your thoughts on how transgender stories or characters have been represented so far? Do you feel these portrayals are accurate or meaningful?
Jaroslava: I honestly cannot recall any Czech film focusing on transgender people, so I believe there hasn’t been one yet. Mostly, there have been TV reports covering discrimination, employment issues, or social rights. Czech society remains very conservative, with lingering Catholic prejudices and traditional attitudes. On top of that, we have the legacy of decades under a totalitarian regime, when homosexuality and transsexuality were often treated as aberrations and even persecuted. While things are much better now, prejudices still exist, especially among older generations, and media representation continues to be limited and sometimes superficial.
Jaroslava: I honestly cannot recall any Czech film focusing on transgender people, so I believe there hasn’t been one yet. Mostly, there have been TV reports covering discrimination, employment issues, or social rights. Czech society remains very conservative, with lingering Catholic prejudices and traditional attitudes. On top of that, we have the legacy of decades under a totalitarian regime, when homosexuality and transsexuality were often treated as aberrations and even persecuted. While things are much better now, prejudices still exist, especially among older generations, and media representation continues to be limited and sometimes superficial.
Monika: You began your transition at the age of 38. Could you tell us how that process unfolded, and whether it was challenging both physically and emotionally?
Jaroslava: Yes, I was 38 when I started my transformation. I first underwent psychotherapy, and then hormone therapy, which together took about five years. I had to follow my doctors’ advice carefully to move efficiently through the process. Despite the operations and treatments, I have fortunately avoided any major health problems, thanks in part to the high quality of the Czech health system. Emotionally, it was a rollercoaster, but each step brought me closer to living authentically, which made it all worthwhile.
Jaroslava: Yes, I was 38 when I started my transformation. I first underwent psychotherapy, and then hormone therapy, which together took about five years. I had to follow my doctors’ advice carefully to move efficiently through the process. Despite the operations and treatments, I have fortunately avoided any major health problems, thanks in part to the high quality of the Czech health system. Emotionally, it was a rollercoaster, but each step brought me closer to living authentically, which made it all worthwhile.
Monika: During that time, did you have any transgender role models, people you looked up to or drew inspiration from?
Jaroslava: No, I didn’t have any role models at the time. I have always valued being original and forging my own path. Everyone should develop their own personality rather than copying someone else. I found strength in following my instincts and learning through experience, which made the journey deeply personal and empowering.
Jaroslava: No, I didn’t have any role models at the time. I have always valued being original and forging my own path. Everyone should develop their own personality rather than copying someone else. I found strength in following my instincts and learning through experience, which made the journey deeply personal and empowering.
Monika: And today, are there transgender women whom you admire or respect for what they’ve achieved?
Jaroslava: Absolutely. I respect anyone who works with determination, holds their head high, and achieves their goals, just as I try to do. I have many transgender friends whom I’ve known for a long time, and I often offer advice or professional support to my younger sisters. Seeing their courage and perseverance inspires me, and reminds me that our community is strong when we support one another.
Jaroslava: Absolutely. I respect anyone who works with determination, holds their head high, and achieves their goals, just as I try to do. I have many transgender friends whom I’ve known for a long time, and I often offer advice or professional support to my younger sisters. Seeing their courage and perseverance inspires me, and reminds me that our community is strong when we support one another.
Monika: Coming out is never easy. What was the hardest part of that journey for you?
Jaroslava: The most difficult part of my transition was navigating my divorce and sharing the truth with my wife, parents, and closest friends. Not everyone reacted well at first. My wife had suspected something for a long time, my father accepted it relatively easily, but my mother struggled, and we didn’t speak for five years. Thankfully, today, relationships have healed. We sometimes meet for coffee and enjoy each other’s company. My children were very supportive throughout my transformation, and now we are all close friends, which has been a huge source of comfort and joy.
Jaroslava: The most difficult part of my transition was navigating my divorce and sharing the truth with my wife, parents, and closest friends. Not everyone reacted well at first. My wife had suspected something for a long time, my father accepted it relatively easily, but my mother struggled, and we didn’t speak for five years. Thankfully, today, relationships have healed. We sometimes meet for coffee and enjoy each other’s company. My children were very supportive throughout my transformation, and now we are all close friends, which has been a huge source of comfort and joy.
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| The lady in blue. |
Monika: Are you involved in politics at all, or do you see yourself participating in lobbying or advocacy work in the future? How do you feel about the role of transgender women in political life?
Jaroslava: I’m not really active in politics at the moment. Right now, I have a lot of personal matters to focus on, so I haven’t taken that path yet. If I were to become involved, I would definitely aim to promote fair and effective policies. In any case, transgender women are already making a difference in politics, and many of them are successful. It’s inspiring to see that our voices can influence society and policy when we choose to engage.
Jaroslava: I’m not really active in politics at the moment. Right now, I have a lot of personal matters to focus on, so I haven’t taken that path yet. If I were to become involved, I would definitely aim to promote fair and effective policies. In any case, transgender women are already making a difference in politics, and many of them are successful. It’s inspiring to see that our voices can influence society and policy when we choose to engage.
Monika: Let’s talk about fashion, do you enjoy it? How would you describe your style, and are there particular colors or trends that appeal to you?
Jaroslava: I really love sportswear, but I don’t limit myself to trends or fashion rules. Comfort is the most important thing for me, so I choose clothes that feel good to wear. I especially enjoy shades of blue, white, and black, but I avoid anything that looks mismatched or unappealing. Fashion, for me, is a way to express personality and mood without feeling forced, and it helps me feel confident every day.
Jaroslava: I really love sportswear, but I don’t limit myself to trends or fashion rules. Comfort is the most important thing for me, so I choose clothes that feel good to wear. I especially enjoy shades of blue, white, and black, but I avoid anything that looks mismatched or unappealing. Fashion, for me, is a way to express personality and mood without feeling forced, and it helps me feel confident every day.
Monika: How important is love in your life, and how has it shaped your experiences?
Jaroslava: Love is very important, it’s a core part of life and human connection, and I don’t need many words to explain that. It gives life meaning and helps us grow emotionally. Love has guided me through challenges and made both family and friendships even stronger, enriching every part of my life.
Jaroslava: Love is very important, it’s a core part of life and human connection, and I don’t need many words to explain that. It gives life meaning and helps us grow emotionally. Love has guided me through challenges and made both family and friendships even stronger, enriching every part of my life.
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| With a rose. |
Jaroslava: Yes, I’ve definitely thought about it. However, my book will have to wait, as I still have many life experiences ahead of me. I don’t plan to finish my story anytime soon, and I’m confident there will be plenty of interesting adventures to share. One day, I would love to write a full autobiography, capturing both the challenges and joys of my life as a transgender woman.
Monika: Are you working on any new projects at the moment, or is it mostly your routine work that keeps you busy?
Jaroslava: I have quite a few work responsibilities and different projects around me. My job in transport takes a lot of time, and adding new or unexpected work can be difficult to manage properly. However, I truly enjoy what I do, and even the routine moments have their rewards. I also like to find little personal projects that bring me joy and keep life interesting.
Jaroslava: I have quite a few work responsibilities and different projects around me. My job in transport takes a lot of time, and adding new or unexpected work can be difficult to manage properly. However, I truly enjoy what I do, and even the routine moments have their rewards. I also like to find little personal projects that bring me joy and keep life interesting.
Monika: What advice would you give to transgender girls who are struggling with gender dysphoria and uncertainty about themselves?
Jaroslava: My first recommendation is not to be afraid. It’s essential to cultivate the right mindset and find inner serenity. Seek guidance from experts, psychologists, and sexologists, they can help you navigate difficult moments safely and confidently. Above all, avoid wrapping yourself in your struggles; don’t let them define you. Be proud of who you are, embrace your life, and find joy in every day. I also want to share a personal motto that guides me: "He who is silent and bows his head dies every time he does so. He who speaks aloud and walks with his head held high dies only once." (Giovanni Falcone). That idea reminds me to live boldly and cherish life’s beauty.
Jaroslava: My first recommendation is not to be afraid. It’s essential to cultivate the right mindset and find inner serenity. Seek guidance from experts, psychologists, and sexologists, they can help you navigate difficult moments safely and confidently. Above all, avoid wrapping yourself in your struggles; don’t let them define you. Be proud of who you are, embrace your life, and find joy in every day. I also want to share a personal motto that guides me: "He who is silent and bows his head dies every time he does so. He who speaks aloud and walks with his head held high dies only once." (Giovanni Falcone). That idea reminds me to live boldly and cherish life’s beauty.
Monika: Jaroslava, it has been an absolute pleasure speaking with you. Thank you so much for sharing your story!
Jaroslava: Thank you, Monika! I’ve really enjoyed this conversation and the opportunity to share my experiences. I hope it inspires others to live authentically and embrace their journey.
All the photos: courtesy of Jaroslava Brokešová.
© 2015 - Monika Kowalska
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