“We’re looking at a photo of me celebrating my He Day, which is my second birthday. Being trans, we get two birthdays. This photo reflects courage, authenticity and hope. It's about showing up for yourself even when it's hard and loving the person you fought to become. For me, it's a reflection of resilience. When I look at this photo, I think about every moment that led up to this—the first hormone shot, the first doctor's appointment, the first voice change, the first time I looked in the mirror and actually recognized myself. I remember the fear of not being accepted, but I also remember the relief of realizing that I didn't need everyone's approval. I just needed my own. ”