Eirin: I didn’t feel any pressure, as I love walking on the catwalk. I practiced almost every day as a kid. My family watched me live on Facebook, but the show was two hours delayed. They already knew the results. I always tell myself to do my best. Win or lose doesn’t mean that much to me. It is a stage where I can practice many skills, walking, talking, and facing challenges. I will bring those lessons with me to the next level in life. Different competition, different knowledge, different lessons. Everything that happens in my life is useful to develop my personality. Sharing that moment with my family, even virtually, made it even more special.
Monika: You clearly have a magnetic presence, and I can imagine you lighting up both runways and movie screens. Have you ever seriously pursued a career in modeling or acting?
Eirin: I always have that in mind. I tried in the film industry during 2020. Unfortunately, Covid-19 limited my chance of getting a bigger role. After graduation (hopefully, Covid-19 is over), I will try again. This time I want to pursue my acting career in Hollywood. It's a bit hard when we are new and don’t have any connections. I just have to start somewhere and work forward. I’ve never had an opportunity in modeling yet. I tried earlier to apply for a modeling agency but without any luck. One day you will see me there, I’m working towards it! Actually, I want to be cast in a heroine role in Marvel movies. Haha. :) Acting has always been a dream for me, not just for the fame but to inspire others through powerful characters.
Monika: Fashion seems to be a natural part of your world, have you always had an eye for style? What kinds of outfits do you enjoy wearing these days, and do you have any favorite colors or designs that define your look?
Eirin: I do like fashion; back when I was 14–16, I used to create my own dresses because I wanted to be a stylist and fashion designer. (I had so many dreams.) Today I wear simple clothes. I went shopping a long time ago (February 2020 for MIQ2020). As a student, I have to save money for my education, so I only wear warm clothes. But even in simplicity, I still try to express myself through small details like color or accessories.
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| Eirin in full bloom. (YouTube) |
Monika: When it comes to role models, do you find more inspiration from public figures abroad or from fellow transgender women in Norway? Whose journeys have truly motivated you as you've grown into the woman you are today?
Eirin: Not really. Today, I look up to such personalities as Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, Michelle Obama, Kamala Harris, and artists from South Korea. I got to a place where I want to work forward to the next level. I want to become more intelligent, create music with which I can tell people about my life stories. First, I never had a love story, there are so many love songs that I believe we all need love to feel fulfilled. But in reality, we all need inspiration. We need someone to look up to.
To become who I am today, I listened to many inspirational podcasts, YouTube channels, music, and movies. It helped a lot. I read almost 25 books about self-development and science-based topics. I sped up my personal growth by pursuing my hobbies. It’s a continuous journey of learning, and I’m always looking for ways to grow emotionally and intellectually.
Monika: How has your experience with love shaped your journey so far? Do you view romantic love as something essential, or do you find fulfillment in other forms of connection?
Eirin: I never had a boyfriend, not because I didn’t want to. I fell in love for the first time when I was 7 years old, and a couple of times afterwards, but only I knew that. When I loved them, I told them, and I kept being rejected until my secondary school years. It seems that I wasn't right for them. And in the end, I could always rely on my family and friends. Love hasn't come easily to me, but I believe the right person will show up when the time is right.
Today, I’m happy just spending time with my family. I used to cry every time I traveled back home and again on my way back to university, because I missed them so much. My love for them is unconditional. Life can be very hard without family support, and in the end, no matter who you are, you’ll always be their daughter, and they’ll always be your parents. Boyfriends and girlfriends may come and go, but family is different. Life can be especially tough for LGBTQ people, because many of us still can’t come out at home.
Monika: These days, many transgender women are publishing powerful and inspiring memoirs. Have you ever considered telling your own story in a book?
Eirin: I already started writing my biography alongside my daily journal. I have a diary where I write down how I feel, and I plan to use those entries in my book. I just want to move my life into its next chapter. I’ve designed my life and work to get there, I want it to be full of challenges, and that’s what excites me every time I wake up. Writing helps me reflect on how far I’ve come and gives me the courage to keep going.
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"Be yourself every day, do different
things so you can know your strength."
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Monika: What are your immediate plans for the future, and where do you envision yourself in the next 5 to 7 years?
Eirin: My goal next year is to graduate and become a dentist, and then to complete a degree at a Business School. In the last few months, I’ve become more serious about rapping and singing. I want to work harder to become an artist and performer. I’m also exploring movie acting and modeling. Whatever the outcome, I can always return to dentistry when I’m older, running my own private clinics with the knowledge I gain from Business and Economics school. It’s hard to say exactly where I’ll be in 5 to 7 years, but I plan to use the next 10 years to learn more about myself and try different industries. After that, I’ll probably be ready to launch a business or startup in the field where I’m strongest. It’s very important to work hard in an area I feel passionate about and where I can see myself growing until I’m 40. I’m excited to keep pushing my limits and discovering what truly makes me thrive.
Monika: What advice would you give to transgender girls who look up to you and want to follow in your footsteps?
Eirin: Be yourself every day and really get to know who you are. Try different things to discover your strengths. Even if you already know what you’re good at, explore new activities just for fun and meet different people. Build your network. Read books about successful people, personal development, and science. Remember, there are no limits to what we can be or achieve. If you’re not comfortable where you are now, don’t be afraid to move on. Have a dream, and start taking action today. Most importantly, be patient and kind to yourself throughout the journey, it’s all part of growing stronger.
Monika: Eirin, it’s been such a pleasure getting to know you today. What final words or hopes would you like to share with your family, friends, supporters, and everyone following your journey?
Eirin: Thank you so much for the interview, Monika. I wish you a wonderful year ahead. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! :) I hope everyone continues to embrace kindness and courage as they pursue their dreams.
All the photos: courtesy of Eirin Grinde Tunheim.
© 2020 - Monika Kowalska
END OF PART 2
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