S1E57: 58| The Fascinating Fa’afafine

Amao Leota Lu is a proud Fa’afafine living in Melbourne, Australia. She was in Hong Kong for the Rainbow Families Forum and spoke to me about her life. She shares her struggles as a transgender woman and also explains the cultural acceptance that she has experienced from her friends and family in Samoa, where the culture is very inclusive. Amao explains how she has navigated a safe space for herself and how she works to support other LGBTQIA+ members of her local community. She shares her journey as she evolved into her true self over the years. “Everyone’s journey is different” and Amao helps us to understand this by sharing her story.  The struggle that trans people can face include finding housing, jobs, health care and acceptance in the community. Amao hopes to give a ‘voice and visibility’ to trans people and reminds us that cultures are forever changing, and that we can all make a difference by treating everyone with respect and kindness. Amao shares the devastating story of her trans friend who was murdered and how her voice was only ‘heard’ after her passing. Amoa is an incredibly positive person with a beautiful soul, she is an inspiration and a wonderful role model for all of us.

A listener note: If you feel you need support, please visit your local GP, a counsellor or contact the Samaritans in Hong Kong on 28960000. If you live in another country, please contact your local Lifeline or Crisis Centre in your area.

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