Growing up as a trans man in Mauritius has not always been easy until now. My existence has always been invalidated and that hurts. So much, that gradually I had started to reject parts of myself until it was transformed into utter hatred. My reality is a mix of small wins! I was always a man. Born one, raised one and I’m now finally living my life as my true self.
What helped you cope, resist, survive or shine?
Community helped. Transitioning helped. Finding the right people, even just a few.. who accepted me for who I am without trying to fix me made all the difference; which helped me focus on myself, my goals, and doing things that make me feel confident. Every time I looked in the mirror and saw the little me looking back, that kept me going.
What changed or still needs to change?
A lot has changed. From more visibility for queer people to more gender affirming healthcare. There is so much more to change. From legal changes to medical. But what we can start from is the idea that we’re not mere labels of “trans people” be it men or women. We’re still human just like everyone else and the least we deserve is basic respect just like it’s given to other people. We’re not a problem to “fix”, we just want to be treated like everyone else.
One quote from you that captures your story
“Realness isn’t measured by flesh. It’s felt in how you show up in the world.”
Challenges
Being a trans man in Mauritius means constantly being told what I’m not. People think you need a penis to be a man, they reduce you to what’s missing instead of seeing who’s right in front of them. I can’t change my gender marker, and sex change is illegal here. But even without all that, I am who I am. The law doesn’t define me.
Lessons or reflections
You don’t have to rush to figure yourself out. Take your time, find your people, and remember that there’s nothing wrong with you. The world might not always understand, but that doesn’t mean your story isn’t valid. Living your truth, even quietly, is powerful.
What’s next?
I want to keep building a life where I feel at peace. Definitely help others who are figuring things out too. My dream is to see a Mauritius where being LGBTQ+ isn’t brave, it’s just normal. I also want to advocate for everyone in the LGBTQIA+ community, and for all those who’ll come after us because we’re human, and we’re allowed to be different and unique. Personally, I just want to keep growing, loving, and showing up as the man I’ve become!
