I am from Ceará, and a large part of my family is from the sertão (a term used in Brazil to refer to the inland, often semi-arid regions of the country), so I grew up in a very conservative environment that didn't accept a transgender person. From an early age, I identified as a trans person, and this made my childhood and adolescence a very difficult period. I experienced various forms of violence, including sexual violence, even from family members. Since I was young, I didn't understand what was happening. To me, it was seen as affection and care, not sexual violence. Today, I understand what I went through, I have dealt with it within myself, and I know it wasn't my fault. In fact, we are not to blame for anything!

My own mother experienced many instances of domestic violence, but she always supported me and taught me a lot. She would say, "If someone tries to touch you, kiss you, or force something on you, that's wrong, you have to scream." Nevertheless, sexual violence was frequent. I experienced an attempted rape in a school environment, faced harassment on the street, and even from my father's friends. I was frightened by all of this, so I sought help from the child protection agency (Conselho Tutelar) myself. I spoke to a counselor who listened to my situation and understood me, and that's when my mother and I received support and guidance.

I had strength because since elementary school, I enjoyed reading, informing myself, and wanted to study, and over time, this led me to engage in activism. Even at a very young age, I was empowering myself and getting close to my role models: my transgender and travesti sisters. When I moved to Rio de Janeiro after graduating in pedagogy, I also encountered new role models and found a support network through Casa NEM (the first LGBTQIAPN+ shelter in Brazil).

The story of my life could have had a tragic ending, as is the reality for many trans and transgender individuals in Brazil, but mine won't. I grew up, explored the world, became an actress, pursued a master's degree, and with my life experience, I am seeking justice and respect for LGBTQIAPN+ people.

*This was written based on Wescla Wasconcelos' story.