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.
Monika: It is both a pleasure and an honor to welcome Meghna Lama, a Nepalese model, beauty queen, and trailblazing advocate for the transgender community. Meghna, thank you for joining me today!
Meghna: Hello Monika, Namaste!
Monika: Meghna, you look absolutely beautiful! What is the secret behind your radiant and timeless beauty? Also, do you have any favorite beauty rituals or self-care practices that you swear by?
Meghna: :) Thanks for your compliment. There is no secret about my beauty; we just have to think and feel that we are beautiful, and the glow comes automatically to our faces. Confidence and self-love play a huge role in how we present ourselves to the world. Also, staying hydrated and maintaining a positive mindset always help!
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| At the audition of the fashion show. |
Monika: For those who may not be familiar with your journey, how would you describe yourself in a few words? What drives you to keep pushing forward, even in the face of challenges?
Meghna: I just feel that when we are born into this world, we all have to face many difficulties and problems in every walk of life, regardless of whether we are male, female, or LGBTI, so I don’t worry about it, and I always love to face it, and in the end, success comes close to me. I believe that perseverance and self-belief are key to overcoming obstacles. No matter what happens, I remind myself to stay true to who I am and keep striving for my dreams.
Monika: Being a model comes with both admiration and expectations. How does it feel to be recognized for your beauty, and what does modeling mean to you beyond appearances?
Meghna: I know that everyone thinks it feels so amazing to be beautiful; I can only add that being transgender and working with ladies as beautiful models makes me feel very proud of myself. Modeling is not just about looking good, it’s about confidence, self-expression, and breaking barriers. I feel grateful that I can represent my community and inspire others to embrace their true selves.
Monika: Your journey in modeling is truly inspiring. What initially drew you to the world of modeling, and how did your career take off after winning Miss Pink Nepal?
Meghna: When I participated in the Miss Pink pageant (Miss Transgender Nepal) and got crowned as Miss Pink Nepal, I felt that I could also do something in the modeling field. No matter what my sexuality was, I felt that I was perfect in this field, so I tried modeling right after my crowning in 2010. Winning the title gave me the confidence to pursue my passion and prove that transgender women can shine in the fashion industry. Since then, every step I’ve taken has been about breaking stereotypes and embracing my true self.
Monika: The fashion industry has embraced many talented transgender models over the years, Roberta Close in the past, and now you, Lea T, Felipa Tavares, Andreja Pejić, Valentijn de Hingh, and many more. What do you think has driven the industry's growing interest in transgender women, and how do you see this representation evolving in the future?
Meghna: Because fashion is not about sexuality; all we have to have is talent and courage to enter this industry. The fashion industry is such a great platform where everyone gets a chance to come in, no matter who they are. It’s a space where individuality and uniqueness are celebrated, and I believe transgender models bring a fresh perspective to beauty and self-expression. With more diversity in fashion, we are not just changing trends, we are changing perceptions.
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| At fashion show of Tenzin Tseten Bhutia, a very famous designer from Nepal. |
Monika: When you're not on the runway or in front of the camera, what does your everyday style look like? Do you have any favorite fashion designs or colors that you love to wear the most?
Meghna: I love to wear outfits depending on the situation. If I go to the temple, I love to wear a kurtha. If I go to do some advocacy, I love to wear a sari, and if I go to a party, then I love to wear designer clothes, etc. Fashion is a way for me to express my identity and culture while feeling comfortable in my own skin. No matter what I wear, I always try to add a personal touch that reflects my personality.
Monika: With your talent, beauty, and intelligence, you would make a fantastic actress. Have you ever considered pursuing acting, and if so, what kind of roles would you love to play?
Meghna: Yes. It’s my dream, and I love to be an actress; I have even been trying for Bollywood, but till now, I haven’t gotten any opportunities, so I hope that one day I might get a chance to work and express my talents. So, I am waiting for this special day. :) Acting is a powerful medium to tell stories, and I would love to portray roles that break stereotypes and inspire people. Whether it's a strong female lead or a character with depth and emotion, I want to bring something meaningful to the screen.
Monika: In 2010, you had the incredible opportunity to compete in the Miss International Queen pageant in Thailand, a prestigious event celebrating the beauty and talent of transgender women worldwide. How do you look back on that experience, and what impact did it have on your journey?
Meghna: Being a transgender woman myself, it was really such a great chance for me to compete at the international level. Although I was not the winner of that event, I got a chance to gather a lot of new experiences, ideas, and new hope that transgender women can do the same things as other cis women. The competition was not just about beauty, it was about confidence, strength, and breaking barriers. I returned home feeling empowered and more determined than ever to represent my community on a bigger stage.
Monika: Pageants like Miss International Queen bring together talented and inspiring transgender women from all over the world. What was the atmosphere like among the contestants, and did you form any lasting friendships during the competition?
Meghna: Yes, being all transgender, we were very much alike, we were close to each other, and we spent lots of time together. We shared our ideas and helped each other. Although we were from different countries, we became friends, and since then, we have been socializing with each other. They are really very good friends! The bond we formed was truly special because we understood each other’s struggles and dreams. Even now, we stay connected, celebrating each other’s successes and supporting one another from afar.
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| Representing Nepal at the 2010 Miss International Queen pageant. |
Monika: Besides Miss Pink Nepal and Miss International Queen, have you competed in any other beauty or fashion competitions? How did those experiences shape your confidence and career?
Meghna: Not exactly in a beauty pageant, but I participated in the contest Face of Panache Runway, which was organized by the top fashion designer from India, Vishal Kapoor. There were around 23 contestants, male, female, and only me as a transgender woman. The winner had to collect many votes, and I won that contest. I was so proud that I got more support than my male and cis female counterparts. Winning Face of Panache Runway proved to me that talent and confidence matter more than gender. It was a moment of validation, showing that the world is ready to embrace diversity in beauty and fashion.
Monika: When you were going through your transition, did you have any transgender role models to look up to? Were there any public figures who inspired you on your journey?
Meghna: There were not such any transgender models. Only female/male models used to be there at that time. It was challenging not having someone to relate to in the fashion and beauty industry, but I found inspiration in strong women who broke barriers in their fields. Over time, I realized that I could become the role model I never had for the next generation of transgender individuals.
Monika: Coming out is often one of the most challenging parts of a transgender person's journey. What would you say was the hardest aspect for you, and how did you cope with those struggles?
Meghna: I have faced a lot of discrimination because of my sexuality. I was perfect for modeling, but I got rejected many times because of my gender identity. It was disheartening, but I never let those setbacks define me. Instead, I used the rejections as motivation to keep pushing forward and prove that I belong in the industry.
Monika: What is your perspective on the current situation of transgender women in Nepalese society? Are there any notable improvements, or are there still challenges that need to be addressed?
Meghna: There have been many substantial changes, but we still haven’t got equal rights like others. Still, we are discriminated against because of our sexuality. Despite the progress, we face challenges in many areas, including employment and social acceptance. However, I believe that with continued advocacy and awareness, we can push for more positive change and greater inclusivity for transgender individuals in Nepal.
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| Newspaper photoshoot at Milan International. |
Monika: Love can play a transformative role in our lives. Could you share how love has impacted you personally, and how important it is for you in your journey?
Meghna: Love is very important in our life. Everyone needs love. Regardless of my being transgender, I receive a lot of love from my family, and a special friend who accepts me as I am, and he also loves me so much, which encourages and empowers me so much. It’s that unconditional love that keeps me going, reminding me that I am valued for who I truly am. Love, whether from family, friends, or a partner, gives me the strength to continue breaking barriers and living authentically.
Monika: You have an amazing figure! What’s your secret to staying in such great shape? Do you follow a specific routine or fitness regimen?
Meghna: :) Nothing that special, just some daily workout and special dancing. Staying active through dance is not only fun but also keeps me in good shape. I also try to maintain a balanced lifestyle and listen to my body’s needs, which helps me stay healthy and energized.
Monika: Many transgender women have shared their journeys by writing memoirs. Have you ever considered writing your own, and if so, what would you want to share with your readers?
Meghna: Yes, I have thought about it for a long time, but now it’s not the right time for me. Maybe after achieving more success in my life. I believe my story could inspire others, but I want to make sure I’ve lived through more experiences that would truly resonate with people. One day, I hope to write a book that shows the ups and downs of my journey, empowering others along the way.
Monika: Are you currently involved in any exciting new projects, either in the advocacy or fashion world? What’s keeping you busy these days?
Meghna: Currently, I am working as a human rights advocate and on some new modeling projects like Wonder Emporium events. I'm passionate about using my platform to raise awareness for the rights of transgender individuals. Additionally, I’m excited to be exploring more opportunities in the fashion industry, where I hope to inspire others and make a bigger impact.
Monika: What advice would you give to transgender women who dream of building a career like yours in modeling or advocacy? What steps should they take to pursue their goals?
Meghna: It’s not easy to get success in this field, but the thing is that if someone feels that they are perfect in this field, then they have to try and try until they are successful. Persistence and resilience are key, and you should never let setbacks stop you from chasing your dreams. Confidence and self-belief will take you far, even when others may doubt you.
Monika: Meghna, thank you for the interview!
All the photos: Courtesy of Meghna Lama.
© 2015 - Monika Kowalska
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