Leia

Leia's Story

What's your preferred name?

Leia

What are your pronouns?

She/Her

Share with us how you identify and how you came to that understanding of yourself.

I identify as a transgender woman. My identity came into question when I was first told, “Only girls say/do that.” I have always felt that my spirit, mind, heart, and soul are nothing short of womanhood and thus my body has followed suit. I am proud to say I’ve been transitioning for over ten years.

Tell us about how your self-expression has helped you grow.

My self-expression is integral to how I navigate the world, but the best part is sharing the possibilities with others. Self-expression is rarely for others but shines the brightest when part of a shared community. I love being part of the queer community for this reason.

Where did you grow up? What was a formative experience you had in childhood that led you to where you are today?

I grew up in Jacksonville, Florida, with a Southern, military, Roman Catholic family. The best memories of my childhood were in a book or tucked away on a patio chair. I watched Star Wars, read Bradbury, and wrote poetry. I was mercilessly bullied, but kept my dreams alive.

What is a life goal that you are working on or have achieved? How has working toward this goal helped you understand yourself as an individual?

I graduated with a Master’s degree in licensed mental health counseling, and it was such a dream come true. I soon realized my role in research and advocacy was just getting started, and I’m excited to pursue my PhD this year.

Who is someone who inspired you to be your true self? What was their influence on you?

There are so many influences on my feminine expression. The women in my family, vintage ’40s and ’50s glam, and my cultural influences. I’ve always wanted ”womanhood on my terms,” and I’ve been inspired by Lana Del Rey, Elizabeth Taylor, and Carrie Fisher.

What's something that you worry about?

I worry about the history of transgender people being rewritten to serve false narratives. Misinformation is the biggest obstacle of our generation, combined with a failure to listen.

What gives you hope?

I’m paving my own road. I’m always reminded that my actions are for others in my work in the mental health field, and I’ve found such a deep place of value within mental health counseling. I share this joy with others whenever possible.

If you had a message for your younger self, what would you say?

The hate you have for yourself isn’t hate, it’s frustration with a world you’ve already outgrown. You will be as beautiful as you dreamed.

What's a piece of wisdom you've learned that has helped you?

Don’t be afraid to ask for more. Certain words have a negative connotation, but that doesn’t mean they’re all bad. Is selfishness a crime when you’re protecting your wellness? No, it’s pride.

What is something you wish other people would know or understand?

Empathy isn’t weakness; it’s a profound strength.