Every once in a while, I come across a story that feels like a patchwork quilt, stitched together with unexpected experiences, bright flashes of humor, and a sense of adventure that refuses to stay inside the lines. Today’s guest is very much that kind of story. Meet Nova Twelve, a young American video blogger whose YouTube channel has become a lively stage where transition, comedy, and creativity intertwine. Originally from the Williamsburg area of Virginia and now based in South Carolina, Nova has a fascinating mix of passions and experiences that shape her outlook on life. Her academic path alone could fill a chapter in a memoir: an undergraduate degree in Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University, followed by a Master’s degree in Counseling from The Citadel. Add to that her formal education in both Cosmetology and Culinary Arts, and you quickly realize she’s someone who thrives on curiosity and reinvention. But if you ask Nova what she’s most proud of, she won’t list diplomas or certifications, she’ll tell you about her travels. To date, she has visited 52 countries, each one adding a new piece to her global mosaic, and she’s set her sights on reaching 100. On YouTube, Nova doesn’t just share her transition, she transforms it into something approachable, funny, and refreshingly human.
Most of her videos lean toward comedy, but when her followers do slip in serious questions, they often center around her transition. Whether she’s trying on a new dress, laughing at off-the-wall viewer questions, or offering candid reflections, Nova’s channel feels less like a performance and more like an open invitation to share in her journey. Beyond the camera, Nova has been active in LGBTQ life, serving on the Board of Gay Pride Virginia and even organizing a trans group in Richmond. She is thoughtful about politics, an advocate of confidence over fear, and a firm believer that transgender women can, and do, make a difference. At the same time, she doesn’t take herself too seriously. She laughs about letting her girlfriend choose her outfits, admits she’s not into fashion trends, and insists that her main goal in life is to live in the present moment while working toward that dream of traveling the world. With her mix of sharp wit, academic insight, and a deep appreciation for love and companionship, Nova Twelve embodies resilience with a sparkle of humor. Today, I have the pleasure of sitting down with her to talk about her journey, her YouTube adventures, her thoughts on representation, and her dreams for the future.
Monika: Today I have the pleasure of speaking with Nova Twelve, a young American video blogger from South Carolina who shares her transition journey on YouTube. Welcome, Nova!
Nova: Hi Monika! Thank you so much for putting this interview together!
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| Trying on a new dress. |
Monika: To start off, could you introduce yourself to our readers and share a little about your background?
Nova: Sure! I’m from the Williamsburg area of Virginia. I went to Virginia Commonwealth University for an undergraduate degree in Psychology. Later in life, I went to The Citadel for a Master's degree in Counseling. I also have formal education in Cosmetology and Culinary. But more than my formal education, I’m most proud of my traveling experiences.
At the present time, I’ve visited 52 countries. My goal is 100. Traveling has given me a perspective on cultures and lifestyles I never could have learned in a classroom. Each country I’ve visited has shaped me in a unique way and continues to inspire my outlook on life.
Monika: What inspired you to start documenting your transition on YouTube and sharing your experiences with the world?
Nova: It seemed like fun and it provided a creative outlet that I really needed. I wanted a space where I could express myself freely and show that transition can also have lighthearted and humorous moments. Over time, the channel became a way to connect with people who might be going through similar experiences.
Monika: What motivated you to begin documenting your transition on YouTube and sharing your journey with a wider audience?
Nova: It seemed like fun, and it provided a creative outlet that I really needed. I wanted a space where I could express myself freely and show that transition can also have lighthearted and humorous moments. Over time, the channel became a way to connect with people who might be going through similar experiences. It gave me a sense of community that I didn’t always have in my everyday life. Creating content also helped me grow more confident in my own skin.
Monika: Your channel has attracted quite a following. What kinds of questions do your viewers most often ask you?
Nova: I don’t get a lot of serious questions on my channel because most of my videos are comedy pieces. But on the occasion that I do get serious questions, it’s usually about my transition. I think people are curious but also cautious, so they often look for reassurance. Sometimes their questions remind me of things I once wondered about myself.
Monika: Out of all the questions you’ve received, which one struck you as the most unusual or surprising?
Nova: Oh gosh… I get some off-the-wall stuff. I guess the strangest question was simply, “Why?” It caught me off guard because it was so blunt, but also kind of funny in its simplicity. It made me realize that sometimes people just don’t know how to frame what they’re really curious about.
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| Looking great! |
Monika: When you’re creating content, do you usually plan your videos with a script, or do you prefer to improvise?
Nova: It’s mostly improvised, but I usually start out with something in mind. I like having a loose idea to guide me, but I don’t want to feel restricted. Improvising keeps the energy more natural and spontaneous. It also allows me to adapt quickly if a funnier or more honest moment comes up.
Monika: Where would you say you are right now in your transition journey?
Nova: I’m eleven years into HRT. I haven’t had any surgeries, and I don’t expect to. For me, transition is more about how I live my life each day than about ticking off medical steps. Everyone’s path looks different, and I’ve made peace with mine.
Monika: How do you feel about the results of your hormone therapy so far?
Nova: I sure am! Heck yes! Hormones changed so many aspects of my life, not just physically but emotionally as well. I’m really grateful for how far I’ve come.
Monika: Are there any transgender role models or influencers who have had an impact on you?
Nova: I watch a lot of people on YouTube, and I enjoy many, many channels. But I really don’t have role models, nor have I ever sought one. I like drawing inspiration from a variety of voices without putting anyone on a pedestal. In the end, I believe we each have to carve out our own way.
Monika: What was the most difficult challenge you faced during your coming out process?
Nova: My family was/is the biggest obstacle. It was hard because acceptance from the people closest to you matters so much. Over time, I’ve learned to find strength even when family support isn’t perfect. It taught me resilience in ways I didn’t expect.
Monika: How would you describe the current situation of transgender women in the United States?
Nova: I think trans people in the States are very lucky to live in such tolerant times. Of course, there are still challenges, but compared to the past, we’ve come a long way. I try to focus on the progress while staying mindful of the work that still needs to be done. Every step forward is worth celebrating, even if it’s small.
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| Glamour shot. |
Monika: How do you feel about the way transgender stories and characters have been represented in films, the media, and literature so far?
Nova: I wasn’t a fan of The Danish Girl. I thought TransAmerica was halfway okay. Other than that, I don’t really know of too many trans characters or movies with trans topics. Representation still has a long way to go, and I hope to see more authentic portrayals in the future. Media has the power to shape understanding, so better stories could make a real difference.
Monika: Politics often shapes the daily lives of LGBTQ people. Do you follow political issues closely, and what role do you think transgender women can play in influencing change?
Nova: I do enjoy politics, and I consider myself a very informed voter. I most certainly believe that anyone, no matter their gender, can make a difference in politics. Change happens when diverse voices are included in the conversation. I think trans women bring perspectives that are valuable and needed in today’s debates.
Monika: Have you been personally involved in your local LGBTQ community, and if so, in what ways?
Nova: I was on the Board of Gay Pride Virginia, and I used to organize a trans group in Richmond, Virginia. Those experiences gave me a chance to connect with people face-to-face, which is very different from online interaction. It also showed me the power of community when people come together to support one another.
Monika: Within the LGBTQ movement, the transgender community sometimes struggles to make its voice heard. Do you think trans people are able to advocate for their own causes effectively within the larger LGBTQ umbrella?
Nova: For the most part, yes. There’s always more work to be done, but I think progress has been made. Unity makes us stronger, yet it’s also important that trans-specific issues aren’t overlooked. Finding that balance can be tricky, but it’s possible.
Monika: Fashion is often an important form of self-expression. Do you enjoy experimenting with fashion, or do you prefer a simpler approach to style?
Nova: I let my girlfriend dress me and pick out my outfits. I’m clueless when it comes to the latest fashions. It’s actually kind of fun to let her take the lead because she has a great sense of style. It takes the pressure off me while still letting me feel put-together.
Monika: Beauty pageants for transgender women spark a lot of discussion. What’s your take on them, and do you think they play a positive role?
Nova: I love beauty! So pageants are perfectly fine with me! I think they give people a platform to shine and celebrate who they are. For some, it’s a chance to gain confidence and visibility, which is always a good thing.
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| Shopping again. |
Monika: Love is often a guiding force in life. What role has love played for you personally?
Nova: I’ve always valued love and companionship over any worldly possession. Relationships bring me happiness and fulfillment in ways that material things never could. Love gives me stability, and it’s what keeps me grounded during life’s ups and downs. To me, it’s the most important treasure anyone can have.
Monika: Many transgender women choose to share their journeys through memoirs. Have you ever thought about writing a book about your own life and experiences?
Nova: I have. I’ve even had a few English professors encourage me to do so. Perhaps one day… Writing about my journey would be a powerful way to reflect on everything I’ve learned. I think it could also help others who are walking a similar path.
Monika: What advice would you give to transgender women who are hesitant about beginning their transition, or who are fearful of discrimination and hatred?
Nova: Fear will be anyone’s biggest hurdle. People sense fear. Be confident in who you are, and there will be little to fear. Confidence changes the way the world responds to you. It’s not always easy, but courage can inspire others too.
Monika: Looking ahead, what do you see as the next steps in your life, and where do you imagine yourself in the next five to seven years?
Nova: Five to seven years from now? I don’t even know what I’m doing tomorrow. I live one day at a time and within that day. I try not to dwell on the past or the future. I live within each moment. The only thing I can say for sure is that within five to seven years I expect to be closer to my traveling goal of visiting 100 countries. Travel continues to be a huge source of joy and growth for me. Each trip shapes me in a way that keeps me excited about the future.
Monika: Nova, it was such a pleasure to speak with you today. Thank you for sharing your story and your reflections!
Nova: Thank you, Monika! The pleasure was all mine! I really enjoyed the chance to sit down and reflect on my journey. Conversations like this remind me of how far I’ve come.
All the photos: courtresy of Nova Twelve.
© 2017 - Monika Kowalska
