Jan03
LGBTI people to watch in 2012
http://gaynewsnetwork.com.au/feature/feature/3900-lgbti-people-to-watch-in-2012.htmlFrom politics and activism to fashion and the arts, we list the most talented, intriguing and promising Australians from the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex communities to watch in 2012.
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TONY BRIFFA
Trailblazing as the first intersex person to hold political office in Australia.
If Tony Briffa ever writes a book about his extraordinary life 2011 is sure to be up there as a pivotal year.
Marred by the tragic loss of a dear friend to cancer in August, December saw the inspirational 41-year-old, who was born with a genetic intersex condition, elected mayor of Hobson's Bay near Melbourne.
"Becoming mayor was a great end to a challenging year," the engaging Briffa said from his council office.
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PAIGE ELLIOT PHOENIX
An emerging artist and role model for the transgender community.
http://gaynewsnetwork.com.au/feature/feature/3900-lgbti-people-to-watch-in-2012.htmlPaige Elliot Phoenix rose from the ashes in 2011 like the mythical bird that shares his name.
Springing seemingly from nowhere, this talented singer, songwriter, psychotherapist, poet, musician and trans-activist is much more than meets the eye.
When he tried out for The X-Factor, he had two agendas – both of which needed a public platform.
"I wanted to get myself out there musically and also raise the profile of gender diversity both here and overseas, so I made the decision to compete as an out transsexual performer."
And he was stunned at the result.
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ALEXANDRA WILLIAMS
Breaking boundaries on her way to become Australia's top transgender model.
http://gaynewsnetwork.com.au/feature/feature/3900-lgbti-people-to-watch-in-2012.htmlIt's hard to believe someone with the glamour and poise of Alexandra was originally scouted as a model while standing behind the counter of a petrol station. Quickly snapped up by Dion X Management, the quiet girl from country New Zealand is now making a serious impression on the Australian fashion industry as one of the country's first transgender models.
Leaving behind her humble beginnings for a life she has always dreamed of, Alexandra is now pushing the boundaries as she tries to get a break in the industry. She explains that while her interest in make-up, clothes and fashion was something she couldn't fully explore growing up, it is through this passion she has been able to feel comfortable in her own skin.
"Modelling has made me feel more comfortable with the way I look as I was able to embrace my femininity through my work," she says.
Alexandra explains that even though most people are shocked to find out she was actually born a man, she still has steps she would like to take to take to fully embrace her true self.
