Personal Story

Growing up Felt different at around 9/10 yrs old Knew I was a woman at 15 Worried about friends leaving if I was a woman. But knew that some friends would support me and that there are people who would not be understanding but would get used to it.

High School Struggles at school: What to wear, which toilets to use, P.E. changing rooms Brave conversations with teachers and students around difficult issues Supportive people – school friends

Work Started working at Countdown – worked there for 10 years Working as a male – didn’t feel right, decided to start working as female Initially Countdown were against it But with support from the Human Rights Commission I got the right to come to work as female

Now I’m living as a woman fulltime, and want to be treated as a woman Joined Crossroads Clubhouse in 2010 – who are accepting of my choices and are there to support and help me. Things I’m involved in: Ponsonby Baptist Church Changing Minds Psych Survivors

Finally Key message: I am who I am and I want people to treat me with respect and accept my choices. Thank You!