‘Don’t get demotivated by rejection’

Transgenders should not get demotivated by rejection from society, Miss World Diversity 2018 and Miss Trans Queen India Classic 2018 Naaz Joshi said on Tuesday.

“Instead, they should try until they succeed at something meaningful,” she advised.

She was speaking during the Transgenders’ Day programme organised by the Parivarthan Charitable Trust and School of Social Work Roshni Nilaya on Tuesday.

Naaz cited her own example, narrating how she went on to become a fashion designer and the first Indian transsexual model, overcoming hurdles. “Rejection is a part of the life of a transgender, however, this should not stop them from having good education and finding a good job. If one shuns the inferiority complex and focuses on having a good career, avenues open up,” she stressed.

‘Forced into sex trade’

Naaz, however, lamented that transgenders are being forced into prostitution, in order to earn their daily bread.

Transgender Ramya Gowda said that in many parts of India, transgenders had made it to high positions like becoming police officers and elected representatives. “The government should prevent assaults against transgenders and provide them with basic needs,” she added.

Violet J Pereira, transgender rights activist and Parivarthan Charitable Trust founder chairperson; Juliet C J, School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya; and Pavitramma, transgender rights activist, were present.

Naaz and Pavitramma were felicitated on the occasion. MRPL general manager (HR) Lakshmi Kumaran handed over a wheelchair provided by the company employees to Gangamma, a transgender.

First Indian transsexual model

Naaz Joshi was sexually abused her close relative at an age of 11 years. She was eventually thrown out of her house and circumstances forced her to move to Mumbai, where she became a bar dancer.

She was, however, interested in fashion designing and sought work from fashion designers. She also did modelling and walked the ramp at fashion shows. After many rejections, she managed to get work with Ritu Beri.

Documentary maker Rishi Taneja made a biopic on Naaz. She was also featured on the cover page of the Tehelka magazine. Naaz is the first transgender to become ambassador for a campaign on creating awareness on sanitary napkins.