Interview with Lily (bamb00unicorn)

Lily is a 24-year-old transgender woman from Michigan who uses the power of social media to document her transition and share her story with honesty, humor, and heart. Known on Reddit and Instagram as bamb00unicorn, she has built a supportive community around her experiences as a trans woman navigating life, love, and self-discovery. Growing up in a conservative town without much LGBTQ visibility, Lily turned to online platforms to find her voice and connect with others. A passionate film enthusiast with a famously sarcastic streak, she also speaks out on issues affecting the transgender community, especially the need to challenge societal pressures around “passing.” Whether she’s answering curious questions from friends or dreaming of a future in the film industry, Lily’s message is clear: living authentically is worth it.

 

Monika: Hello Lily! It’s such a pleasure to speak with you, you radiate charm, confidence, and wit. I'm so excited to have you here!

Lily: Hi Monika! I’m a big admirer of your blog and your activism. I’m flattered that you asked to interview me. It means a lot to be part of a project that uplifts and highlights trans voices. Your interviews have helped so many of us feel seen and understood. I’m really looking forward to our conversation!

Monika: Let’s start with a little introduction, how would you describe yourself to someone meeting you for the first time?

Lily: Well, I’m a 24-year-old transgender woman who loves movies, is extremely sarcastic, and optimistic! I’m also a bit of a dreamer, I believe in the power of storytelling and how it can change lives. I enjoy connecting with people online and building community through shared experiences. And when I’m not watching films or advocating for trans rights, I’m probably curled up in a cozy sweater, laughing at my own jokes.

Monika: What inspired you to open up about your transition journey on social media, and how did it all begin?

Lily: I started using Instagram and Reddit as online spaces where I could be myself. I grew up in a conservative town in Michigan where there wasn’t really much of an LGBTQ community. I couldn’t be out there, so Instagram became a safe space for me to express myself and document my transition. It gave me a sense of freedom I didn’t have in real life. I also found a lot of support and validation from people who were going through similar things. Over time, it became more than just a personal outlet, it became a way to help others feel less alone.

Monika: You’ve built quite a following on social media. Do you often receive questions from your audience, and what kind of things are they curious about?

Lily: I often get questions from my cis friends and family who follow me on Instagram. Most of the questions I get are very general (i.e. “What do trans and cis mean? What do hormones do?” etc.). For many people I know, I’m the first trans person they’ve ever met. I try to be patient and informative because I know they’re coming from a place of curiosity, not malice. It’s a chance to educate and make the world a little more understanding. Sometimes, their questions remind me how important visibility is and why I keep sharing my journey.

Monika: You've probably received all sorts of questions throughout your transition. Has anyone ever asked you something particularly odd or unexpected?

Lily: Not many are strange, although one friend once asked, upon me coming out to some friends from high school, if I was now going to become a dancing girl in Las Vegas. It caught me completely off guard, I just laughed and said, “Not quite!” Sometimes people have the wildest assumptions about what being trans means. It was a reminder that we still have a lot of educating to do, but also that humor can be a great way to break the ice.

"The hardest part of coming out was just

getting over the fear of being open and

doing it."

Monika: Many trans women say that hormone therapy can be life-changing. How has it affected you personally, both physically and emotionally?

Lily: I’m extremely satisfied! I’ve never loved myself more than I do right now. The changes have helped me feel more aligned with who I truly am. It’s not just about physical transformation, it’s about finally recognizing yourself in the mirror. I feel more confident, more at peace, and more connected to my body than ever before. It’s been one of the most affirming experiences of my life.

Monika: Embracing your true self often comes with great challenges. Many trans women face rejection from family, friends, or even lose their jobs when they come out. Did you experience any of these hardships? What was the most difficult part of your coming-out journey?

Lily: I was very fortunate to not have lost my family or friends. The hardest part of coming out was just getting over the fear of being open and doing it. That fear can be paralyzing, it’s like standing on the edge of a cliff, unsure if you’ll fall or fly. But once I took that leap, a huge weight lifted off my shoulders. It taught me that sometimes the biggest barrier is the fear itself, not the reaction of others.

Monika: Many transgender people struggle with the pressure to “pass” as cisgender, and this can feel like a kind of prison. Even with surgeries or hormone treatments, judgment often lingers. How do you think we can better cope with the expectations and challenges around passing?

Lily: I think this will require all of us to rethink the importance of passing. Passing is important for safety, yes, but the idea that someone's self-worth is tied to their ability to pass is something that we need to do away with. Our value should never be measured by how well we fit into societal norms or expectations. It’s about embracing our authentic selves, regardless of how others perceive us. We need to create communities that celebrate diversity rather than conformity. True confidence comes from self-acceptance, not from meeting someone else’s standards.

Monika: Do you have any transgender role models or public figures who inspire you, either for their activism, creativity, or simply for being their authentic selves?

Lily: Yes! In terms of famous trans icons, I love Laverne Cox, Janet Mock, Jenn Richards, Laura Jane Grace, Carmen Carrera, and Elliot Page. They all bring visibility to our community in different ways and show that there is no single way to be trans. Their courage and authenticity motivate me every day. There are also many trans people I've met through Instagram whom I follow, such as @madlymadiii and @breakthebinary. These individuals share raw, real experiences and remind me that community support is so important. Seeing such diverse journeys helps me feel connected and hopeful for the future.

Monika: How would you describe the current situation for transgender women in the United States? What are the biggest challenges they face today?

Lily: That’s definitely a loaded question. Trans women still face a lot of difficulties in the United States. Trans women of color are often murdered simply for being who they are. We still have a long way to go. Discrimination in healthcare, employment, and housing remains widespread. Many face daily harassment and violence, making safety a constant concern. Access to affirming medical care is often limited, and many trans women struggle with mental health issues due to societal rejection. The political climate can sometimes feel hostile, with laws targeting transgender rights on the rise. Despite these challenges, there is also growing visibility and activism pushing for change, which gives me hope for a better future. The resilience and solidarity within the community continue to inspire me every day.

Monika: How would you describe your personal style? Are there particular types of clothing, colors, or fashion trends that you love or feel drawn to?

Lily: I like fashion. I have a very eclectic style, lol. I mostly just wear whatever makes me feel comfortable. Leggings, sweaters, dresses, anything that's not really constricting and feels cozy. Comfort is definitely my top priority, especially during busy or stressful days. I also enjoy mixing casual pieces with a few bold accessories to add some personality. Fashion, for me, is about expressing myself without sacrificing ease or authenticity.

Monika: What are your thoughts on transgender beauty pageants? Do you think they help promote visibility and acceptance, or do you see any challenges with them?

Lily: I don't know much about them, but I would like to see more trans women given the opportunity to compete alongside cisgender women. Inclusion in mainstream pageants could help break down barriers and stereotypes. It would be amazing to have more spaces where all women, regardless of their gender history, can be celebrated equally. I believe true equality means sharing the same stage, not separate ones.

Monika: How active are you within your local LGBTQ community? Do you participate in events or support groups, and how has that involvement influenced you?

Lily: I am! I have many friends in the queer community. Being part of this community has given me a strong sense of belonging and support. I often attend local events and virtual meetups to stay connected and engaged. It’s inspiring to see so many people working together to create positive change and uplift each other.

"Passing is important for safety, yes, but the idea

that someone's self-worth is tied to their ability to

pass is something that we need to do away with."

Monika: How has love shaped your journey, and what role does it play in your life today?

Lily: Love is extremely important to me. I’m currently in a relationship (which I never thought would happen), and he’s made me feel so much better about myself. Having someone who accepts and supports me unconditionally has truly boosted my confidence and happiness. It reminds me every day that I deserve to be loved just as I am. Love has given me hope and motivation to keep moving forward despite any challenges.

Monika: Many transgender women choose to share their journeys through memoirs. Have you ever considered writing your own story or sharing your experiences in a book?

Lily: I may one day! Writing a memoir sounds like a meaningful way to connect with others and offer support. It could be a chance to reflect on my growth and challenges throughout my transition. For now, I’m focused on sharing my story through social media, but I’m definitely open to exploring more long-form writing in the future.

Monika: What are your current goals, and where do you envision yourself in the next five to seven years?

Lily: Right now, I’m taking everything one day at a time. I want to continue trying to find work in the film industry, grow my social media following, and potentially start my own blog talking about transition. I’m excited to develop my creative skills and hopefully contribute to more inclusive storytelling in media. Building a supportive community online is really important to me, and I’d love to inspire others through my experiences. In the long term, I hope to find a balance between my passion for film and activism, making a positive impact both on and off screen.

Monika: What advice would you give to transgender women who feel afraid or uncertain about starting their transition?

Lily: You just have to do it! Living as yourself is so freeing. It’s natural to feel scared, but embracing your true self is worth every step. Surround yourself with supportive people who lift you up. Remember, your journey is unique, so take it at your own pace and be kind to yourself along the way.

Monika: My pen friend Gina Grahame once told me that we should never limit our potential based on how we were born or what other transgender people have done. She said our dreams shouldn’t end on an operating table, that’s actually where they begin. Do you share this belief?

Lily: I agree 100%. Transition is not the end, but the start of living your fullest life. It’s about embracing your true self and opening doors to new possibilities. Our dreams go far beyond any surgery, they are about happiness, growth, and self-acceptance. I believe every trans person has the right to dream big and chase those dreams unapologetically.

Monika: Lily, it has truly been a pleasure talking with you today. Thank you so much for sharing your story and insights!

Lily: Thank you so much! I really appreciate the opportunity to share my experiences. It means a lot to know my story might help others. I look forward to staying connected and watching our community grow stronger every day.

All the photos: courtesy of Lily (bamb00unicorn).

© 2021 - Monika Kowalska

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