The modeling world has never exactly been at the forefront of social change or acceptance, but in recent years, it has willingly embraced the transgendered or androgynous members of its community. Lea T, Casey Legler, and May Simon all blur gender binaries professionally, and have found success in doing so. Yet, none have achieved the acclaim and recognition of Andreja Pejic.
For those unfamiliar, Andreja started out in 2010 as a male model whose androgyny allowed her (at the time, him) to walk in womenswear shows. This year, Andreja took time off from modeling and came out as transgender.
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During her off time, Andreja and a friend decided to document her journey and her decision to address her gender dysphoria and cease being an androgynous boy. Detailing her youth in a refugee camp in The Balkans to her rise as a runway darling (and muse to Gaultier), the documentary seeks to not only tell Andreja's story, but to also bring light to the plight and struggle of transgender individuals. Director Eric Miclette told Andreja,"You know how many trans people (and people in general) are out there hiding, forced to live as someone they are not. You could give them hope by going public about this.”
While there are still immense social strides to be made, stories like Andreja's need to be told, so head over to Kickstarter to help hers get out. As for her career — well, seeing what Andreja can do in her own skin will be a treat for anyone who loves the runway. (The New York Times)
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