Interview with Nika Fontaine

Nika Fontaine is a French-Canadian artist whose creativity shines as brightly as the glitter that covers much of her work. Now based in Berlin, she has built a fascinating artistic universe where spirituality, kitsch, and glamour coexist in a dazzling symphony of color and meaning. Nika is not only an artist but also a coffin designer, curator, and the creator of the projects Kitsch Lexikon and Kitschypedia, which explore the cultural significance and emotional resonance of kitsch as both an aesthetic and philosophical concept. Her artistic practice is wonderfully diverse, encompassing painting, sculpture, video, performance, photography, and music, all of which serve as vehicles for her exploration of transformation, mortality, and self-expression. At the heart of Nika’s art lies a desire to challenge perceptions and redefine what is considered beautiful, sacred, or excessive. Her glitter paintings blend lyrical spirituality with the unapologetic sparkle of glam and pop culture, while her coffin designs offer a striking meditation on death and rebirth. For Nika, a coffin is not simply a container for the end of life but a celebration of existence, a reflection on ego and vanity, and an invitation to embrace mortality with humor, color, and grace. 

 

One of her most symbolic works, Pimp My Ride to Heaven, created for the Deutsche Bank Kunsthalle in 2014, became both a personal and artistic statement, marking the symbolic burial of her former self, Nicolas, and the radiant emergence of Nika. Her approach to art is deeply personal yet universal. Spirituality, introspection, and playfulness are intertwined in her creations, which often mirror her own journey as a transgender woman navigating transformation and acceptance. Though she prefers to be known simply as an authentic creator rather than a “transgender artist,” her story and perspective enrich her work with profound emotional depth and authenticity. She believes that art can elevate the soul, and even in its most decorative or glamorous form, it remains a tool for communication, connection, and healing. In Berlin’s vibrant artistic scene, Nika has found both inspiration and freedom. Surrounded by a community that embraces diversity and bold self-expression, she continues to push boundaries with her projects, exhibitions, and performances. Her work reminds us that art can be both serious and playful, sacred and outrageous, elegant and loud. Above all, Nika Fontaine’s artistic journey is a celebration of life itself, its contradictions, its beauty, and its infinite potential for reinvention.

Interview with Emma Martin

Emma Martin is a remarkable British woman whose life beautifully intertwines technology, psychology, and activism. For many years, she worked in the IT industry, building a successful career that culminated in her position as an IT Manager for a major food manufacturer. Yet, despite her achievements, Emma felt a growing desire to help others on a more personal level. This calling led her to retrain as a clinical psychotherapist and hypnotherapist, where she specialized in gender incongruence, a term she herself coined to replace the less accurate and more stigmatizing expressions like gender dysphoria or gender identity disorder. Through her counseling practice, Emma supported countless transgender individuals, as well as their families, friends, and partners, helping them navigate the emotional and psychological challenges of gender transition with understanding and dignity. Emma’s own journey into public awareness began in 2008 when the British media covered her extraordinary love story with her wife, Linda. The couple, married for decades, were forced to annul their marriage so that Emma could be legally recognized as a woman after her gender-affirming surgery. Their story touched many hearts across the UK and beyond, symbolizing the absurdity of outdated laws and the strength of true love. When the British government later changed the law to allow same-sex marriages, Emma and Linda were able to remarry on December 10, 2014, exactly thirty-seven years after their original wedding day. In a poetic full circle, they found themselves back where they had always belonged, together.

Interview with Marisa Allen

Marisa Allen is one of those rare artists whose energy, humor, and sparkle seem to illuminate every stage she steps onto. A Belgian revue producer, performer, and director, she is best known as the creative mind behind the award-winning show ballet The New Sensations, a spectacular production that has captured audiences across the globe. For more than a decade, she has earned the title of “The Designer of the Stars,” creating glamorous costumes and breathtaking stage concepts for artists and performers worldwide. Her shows have brought elegance and joy to some of the most prestigious theaters and casinos, combining visual beauty, artistic excellence, and a touch of playful extravagance that has become her signature style. Marisa’s journey into show business began when she was only five years old, performing in children’s plays and discovering that the stage was her true home. Over the years, her career blossomed into a vibrant blend of performance and design. Today she continues to shine not only as a designer but also as a stand-up comedian, embodying an array of unforgettable characters, from queens to call girls, from little girls to movie icons like Marilyn Monroe. Her artistic versatility reflects her fearless creativity and deep love for entertaining others.

 

Beyond the spotlight, Marisa is a woman of warmth, grace, and resilience. She is a devoted wife who has shared her life with her husband for nearly three decades, a proud mother, and a deeply compassionate person who values kindness and authenticity above all. Her philosophy is simple yet profound: love and happiness are the true sources of beauty, and respect is the key to being respected. She believes that success in art and in life comes from following one’s passion, staying humble, and always daring to dream. In this interview, Marisa shares her remarkable story, from her early days as a young dreamer to her triumphs on the international stage. She talks about the inspirations behind her artistry, her experiences as a transgender woman in the entertainment world, and her reflections on empowerment, femininity, and self-expression. With her signature mix of humor, honesty, and heart, Marisa reminds us that life, like show business, is meant to be lived in full color and with a touch of sparkle.

Interview with Koko Jones

Koko Jones is a woman whose rhythm moves far beyond the boundaries of music. An acclaimed American percussionist, bandleader, and activist, she has played alongside some of the greatest names in the industry, including Whitney Houston, The Isley Brothers, Winard Harper, and Reggie Workman. Yet her artistry reaches deeper than performance. As a trans woman of color, writer, educator, Buddhist, and mother, Koko has built her life around truth, resilience, and creative expression. Her most recent album, Who’s That Lady, captures this spirit beautifully, weaving together themes of self-discovery, social justice, and spirituality while honoring the legacies of Sylvia Rivera and Marsha P. Johnson. Named by The Huffington Post among the “10 Trans Names You Should Know,” Koko continues to inspire both on and off the stage with her honesty and courage.

 

Koko’s story is one of perseverance, reinvention, and boundless creativity. Starting her professional career at just thirteen, she quickly found herself performing alongside legendary soul and jazz musicians, touring nationally, and discovering the joy of turning her passion into a lifelong calling. Her journey, however, has not been without struggle. She has faced the challenges of transitioning while navigating the music industry, the heartbreak of difficult personal choices, and the realities of being a transgender woman of color in America. Through it all, Koko has remained guided by compassion, faith, and a belief in the transformative power of music. Whether behind the drums, leading her band, or mentoring young artists, she continues to use her art and voice to uplift others, reminding the world that authenticity and love are the truest measures of success.

Interview with Jessica O’Donnell

Jessica O’Donnell is an American transgender activist and video blogger whose voice has been a meaningful part of the community for many years. Known to some by her former surname, Jessica Cummings, she became widely recognized after her life and marriage were covered by the American media in 2013. Long before that moment, however, she had already been sharing her story with honesty and courage, offering visibility at a time when few transgender women were given a platform. As the co-founder and former co-host of Transition Radio, she helped create a space where transgender lives could be discussed with sincerity, warmth, and a desire to uplift others. Her journey has been shaped by perseverance, humor, and a deep commitment to authenticity, qualities that shine through in the way she speaks about her past, her dreams, and her hopes for the future.

Interview with Stephanie Postma

Stephanie Postma entered the spotlight at an age when most of us were still figuring out who we wanted to be. She uploaded her first YouTube video at fourteen, bravely opening a window into her transition for other young transgender girls who might have needed exactly that kind of courage. Today she is a 22-year-old beauty and wellness student who has already completed her transition and is enjoying life with a confidence she fought hard to earn. Her story includes the difficult parts, such as losing the support of her parents, and the joyful parts, such as her first holiday with “F” in her passport and building a new life with her partner. She speaks openly about what it means to live simply as a woman in a world that too often expects transgender women to perform femininity rather than embody it. Grounded, honest, and refreshingly direct, Stephanie’s perspective reflects the dreams of someone who hopes to swap the cold Dutch climate for sunny Barcelona, where she wants to open her own beauty salon. It is my pleasure to share our conversation.

Interview with Bright Daffodil

Meeting Bright Daffodil feels like stepping into a world where identity, spirit, and human experience blend into something both radiant and profoundly thoughtful. Born intersex in the United Kingdom, she has never shied away from telling her story. Through documentaries, interviews, and public conversations, she has invited audiences to see beyond labels and into the heart of a person who has spent her life searching for truth, love, and authenticity. Bright Daffodil speaks about her journey in a way that challenges conventions yet remains grounded in a deep sense of compassion. Her life has taken her through moments of struggle, reinvention, spiritual discovery, and activism, carrying all of these experiences with grace and a sense of higher purpose.

 

She has navigated the complexities of intersex and transgender life with a clarity and courage that few can match, speaking openly about the challenges she faced growing up, the struggles of her transitions, and the societal pressures that often sought to define her. Beyond her personal journey, she is a passionate advocate for community, solidarity, and visibility, using her experiences to educate, uplift, and empower others. Whether through her charity work, her creative projects, or her reflections on spirituality and love, she encourages people to embrace their identities fully and to live authentically. Her insights into society, politics, and human connection reveal a mind deeply committed to understanding and improving the world around her. Engaging with Bright is a reminder that self-acceptance and compassion are revolutionary acts, and that every person has the power to shape their own reality while inspiring change in others.

Interview with Victoria Divine

Victoria Divine is an Argentinian film director, producer, and performer whose life and work have been shaped by an unending desire to evolve. She grew up in Buenos Aires in the 1970s, where she first explored her gender identity and discovered a fascination with the trans women who would become her earliest role models. Her creative journey has taken her from Argentina’s vibrant nightlife scene, where she thrived as a drag queen, model, TV presenter, and DJ, to the international film world, where she now focuses on telling powerful stories about remarkable individuals. Victoria’s documentaries capture the lives of women who inspire her, women whose voices have often been overlooked or dismissed, and she approaches each story with a deep belief in equality, visibility, and the transformative force of femininity. Her work is grounded in activism and guided by a conviction that cinema can disrupt old narratives and challenge the privileges that shape our societies.

 

She carries with her a bold artistic voice shaped by years of performance, observation, and emotional honesty. Her curiosity about human nature is matched by a strong sense of social responsibility, which is visible in every project she embraces. Many people find her presence unforgettable because she blends artistic vision with a sincere commitment to justice and representation. Having lived in both Argentina and the United Kingdom, Victoria has gained a unique understanding of how culture shapes the experiences of transgender people and she speaks openly about the contrasts she has witnessed. Whether she discusses her academic research on transgender representation in Argentine cinema or the personal journey that led her to embrace her own femininity, she brings a sense of depth, clarity, and courage to every conversation. It is my pleasure to welcome this extraordinary artist to the interview.

Interview with Meghna Lama

Meghna Lama is a prominent transgender model, businesswoman, and activist from Nepal, known for her significant contributions to the LGBTQIA+ community and her efforts to promote inclusivity within Nepali society. From a young age, Meghna recognized her unique identity, feeling different from other children as early as seven. It wasn't until grade 10 that she fully understood her gender identity, a realization that led her to join the Blue Diamond Society's Jhapa chapter, an organization dedicated to supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals in Nepal. In 2010, Meghna participated in the Miss Pink pageant, a competition for transgender individuals in Nepal, where she was crowned Miss Pink Nepal. This achievement propelled her modeling career, leading her to represent Nepal in the Miss International Queen pageant in Thailand.

 

Recognizing the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community in Nepal, Meghna transitioned into entrepreneurship to create inclusive spaces. She established Pink Tiffany, the first LGBTI-friendly bar and restaurant in Kathmandu. Adorned with rainbow colors symbolizing pride, Pink Tiffany stands as a beacon of courage and inspiration, offering employment opportunities to transgender individuals and fostering a sense of community. Meghna's journey from a young individual grappling with her identity to a celebrated model and entrepreneur exemplifies resilience and determination. Her efforts have not only paved the way for greater acceptance of transgender individuals in Nepal but have also inspired many to embrace their true selves and pursue their passions.

Interview with Kelly Star

Kelly Star, a transgender model and aspiring adult entertainer from Perth, is known for her striking figure and her role as a transgender icon in Australia. Born Michael Tanham in a loving Christian family, she grew up in Western Australia, where she was a state champion swimmer and a popular altar boy. Despite her success in sports and social circles, Michael felt a profound disconnect with his identity, knowing deep down that he was never meant to be a boy. At the age of 16, driven by a desire to fulfill her dream of becoming a woman, Kelly began secretly taking female hormones, initially stealing them from her boss at a hairdressing salon. Over time, she grew more feminine in appearance, eventually gaining the confidence to seek medical assistance and formally begin her transition.

 

Kelly’s journey to self-acceptance and transformation was not without its challenges. When she came out to her family, she faced shock and initial resistance, but they eventually came around to support her. Inspired by supermodels like Elle MacPherson and Gisele Bündchen, Kelly envisioned herself with a curvaceous, hourglass figure, a look she has meticulously crafted through numerous surgical procedures. She has made headlines for claiming to have the largest breast implants in Australia, a self-confessed "breast obsession" that has led to significant enhancements over the years. Today, Kelly uses her platform to advocate for body autonomy and the right of transgender women to shape their own destinies. She hopes that by sharing her story, she can empower young trans people to embrace their dreams without apology.

Interview with Sass Rogando Sasot

Sass Rogando Sasot is a remarkable transpinay whose voice has long resonated across activism, academia, and international dialogue. Known for her steadfast commitment to dignity and visibility for trans people, Sass has spent years reflecting on what it means to live authentically while engaging with some of the most complex questions of humanity. Her journey has taken her from co-founding one of the first transgender advocacy groups in the Philippines to standing in the ECOSOC Chamber at the United Nations, where she delivered a deeply moving speech that echoed far beyond the room. With a passion for international relations and diplomacy, she is now pursuing the path of becoming both a scholar and a practitioner, intent on ensuring that trans people are not only part of political conversations but present within the very institutions shaping the world. It is an honor to speak with her today.

 

Sass’s story is one of perseverance shaped by intellect, courage, and an unwavering belief in the power of possibility. Her academic achievements, including graduating magna cum laude from Leiden University, reflect the same dedication she brings to her advocacy and public work. Whether she is navigating the challenges of funding her postgraduate studies or engaging in thoughtful conversations about law, equality, and identity, she approaches each step with a sense of purpose that is both inspiring and deeply grounded. In her reflections on activism, representation, and the lived realities of transpinays, she reminds us that visibility carries meaning only when it is paired with dignity, opportunity, and genuine inclusion. Speaking with her offers not just insight into trans politics but also a glimpse into the heart and mind of someone committed to transforming the spaces she enters.

Interview with Plastic Martyr

Plastic Martyr is an American transgender high fashion print and runway model, as well as a singer and creative force. Known for her bold style, striking looks, and fearless authenticity, Plastic Martyr began her modeling career unexpectedly after a viral MySpace photo at age 14 caught the attention of photographers and designers alike. Since then, she has become a recognizable face in fashion, celebrated for her work with major designers and her unapologetic presence in an industry that's slowly learning to embrace trans beauty. A self-described “weird kid with blue hair and cool clothes,” she defied gender norms from the moment she could walk, favoring Barbies, princess dreams, and her mother’s makeup over anything else. Her journey is not only about fashion and music, but also about visibility, strength, and the importance of owning one’s truth, whether on the runway, in a recording studio, or just walking down the street in big sunglasses and black leggings.

 

Plastic Martyr is now expanding her creative reach with a budding music career, having recently released a new single titled “Waiting.” Throughout it all, she remains grounded in gratitude toward the people who supported her rise, from her ever-supportive mother to her publicist and close collaborators. She is proof that living boldly, beautifully, and authentically is not only possible, it’s powerful. Her story also reflects the evolution of trans representation in fashion, showing just how much can change when someone refuses to shrink themselves. She continues to inspire young trans people who see in her the confidence they hope to someday claim for themselves. With each new project, she reminds the world that creativity has no gender boundaries. And perhaps most importantly, her career stands as a reminder that being unapologetically oneself is not just liberating, it is revolutionary.

Interview with Terri Jay

Beauty, resilience, and advocacy intertwine in the life of Terri Jay, an inspiring figure who has made her mark in the worlds of pageantry, activism, and community service. As a proud Native American transwoman from the Navajo/Zuni Tribes of New Mexico, Terri has not only embraced her identity but has also dedicated her life to uplifting others, particularly transgender women of color facing addiction and homelessness. Terri's journey is one of remarkable courage and determination. From her early years on the Navajo Reservation to her transition at the age of 18 and subsequent relocation to Los Angeles, she has faced and overcome countless challenges. Her path led her to higher education at UCLA, a career as a Certified Addictions Specialist, and a deep commitment to trans rights advocacy. Through her work with APAIT (Asian Pacific AIDS Intervention Team) Health-Center, she continues to be a guiding light for many in the transgender community.

Interview with Joanne Borden

Joanne Borden is a remarkable transgender activist from the United States whose life story feels like a masterclass in resilience, curiosity, and unapologetic joy. Before becoming known for her advocacy, Joanne built a distinguished career as an industrial engineering consultant and even served as president of two engineering societies. She is also a devoted father and grandfather, proudly answering to the affectionate title of Papa Joanne. Her journey is shaped by a lifelong realism and an infectious sense of happiness that only grew stronger after coming out. Driven by a desire to understand the forces that shaped her identity, she immersed herself in years of full-time research that eventually became her influential book Transgender Complete: A Virtual Handbook. Her passion for learning is matched by her passion for performing, whether she is appearing in The Vagina Monologues or presenting her award-winning monologues at festivals and community events.

 

Joanne has long been active in local politics, fighting for equal protection under the law, transgender sensitivity training, and broader public understanding. Joanne’s story carries a rare blend of humor, self-awareness, and fierce determination that makes every conversation with her both enlightening and surprisingly fun. She is living proof that authenticity can bloom at any age and that courage is not a matter of timing but of honesty. Her experiences offer a powerful reminder that personal happiness often begins with self-acceptance, no matter how long the journey may be. At 79, Joanne stepped into the world as a woman for the first time, and at 84 she fully transitioned, proving that it is never too late to embrace one’s truth. Her voice is shaped by decades of observation and activism, and her commitment to universal human rights remains as strong as ever.