Lesotho: The adventure of feminine-masculine traits as a young lady

Growing up as a young Mosotho woman with both masculine and feminine traits has shaped much of my journey. My appearance and the way I carry myself often challenge the expectations people have of women in my community. Because I am more comfortable embracing my masculine side, many assume things about my sexuality without ever knowing my true story. People see what makes them uncomfortable, but they rarely see the whole person behind it. 

Nothing around me has really changed, but I have. I’ve come to believe that no one else should be allowed to captain my journey. Everyone deserves the freedom to be who they are without fear or apology. The world is evolving, and people must evolve with it, not cling to outdated expectations. Whenever I feel anxious about how others perceive me, I remind myself: God is the creator of whatever is making me anxious; all I can do is live my life the way I imagine it. 

Being different in my community is not easy. I am often labelled as something I am not, expected to endure the judgment quietly, to “keep it moving” because society refuses to accept the changes happening around us. That kind of pressure forces many of us to hide parts of ourselves, just to survive. 

Over time, I’ve learned that life has no formula. The only way forward is to take each day as it comes and find peace within yourself. I’ve stopped living according to other people’s expectations. Instead, I keep choosing to be myself, without fear, without trying to impress anyone. In the end, I am the author of my own book, and my story will reflect all my truths and experiences. 

Looking to the future, my hope is simple: to continue living authentically and to write a life that honours who I am. My dreams for my community are rooted in that same hope, that someday, more of us can live freely, without being judged for embracing the fullness of who we are.