In a world that is increasingly recognizing the vast spectrum of human experience, it is vital to listen to voices that have long been overlooked. This article brings forward the honest and heartfelt stories of three transgender kids—Violet, Zack, and Aya—who courageously share their journeys of self-discovery, the challenges they faced, and the wisdom they offer to others walking similar paths.
Violet: “I Was Always a Girl”
Violet, a 13-year-old who uses she/her pronouns, began her gender transition publicly at school around the end of second grade. For Violet, the transition was less of a sudden revelation and more of a long-accepted truth. “Everyone knew I wasn’t a boy,” she explains, recalling how even in kindergarten she was part of the girls’ group. At that young age, her classmates’ reactions were mostly positive or indifferent, but as she grew older, some peers began to resist her identity. She remembers hearing, “You’re still a boy,” or being subjected to occasional slurs. Yet, Violet emphasizes that support from friends and family far outweighed negativity.
A particularly poignant moment for Violet was the opportunity to start fresh at a new high school. “I want to have control over who I tell and how that happens,” she says, highlighting the importance of autonomy in her journey.
Her name was chosen from a list given by her mother—“Violet” resonated because it was a name her mother would have chosen if Violet had been assigned female at birth. Family plays a crucial role in her story: her twin brother stands firmly by her side, ready to defend her if needed, and her younger brother has known her only as Violet, making her identity feel normal and natural within the family.
Violet stresses a common misconception about being transgender: “It’s not a choice. I wasn’t pretending or experimenting—I always knew I was a girl.” She recalls early experiences, like choosing to wear pink in pre-K or feeling out of place in boys’ locker rooms during swim class, as subtle but clear signs of her true identity.
She advises other transgender kids to find communities where they feel safe and understood. For Violet, attending a sleep-away camp for transgender youth has been transformative—a place where she can just be a kid without explanation or judgment.
Zack: “Don’t Let Anyone Tell You It’s a Phase”
Zack, a 9-year-old who uses he/him pronouns, shares his love for rock climbing, painting, and even culinary creativity—he once crafted a towering chocolate dessert with layers of cookies, Nutella, bananas, and peppermint. His favorite animals? Snakes and tarantulas, creatures often misunderstood but fascinating to him.
Zack’s realization of his gender came one night just before bed: “I yelled that I was a boy.” The clarity of this moment remains vivid, and since then, he’s embraced his identity fully.
Transitioning at school in third grade, Zack recounts a mixed experience with teachers—most accepted him, but one struggled to use his correct pronouns, leading to uncomfortable moments. His mother’s advocacy on his behalf helped address these challenges.
When asked what he wants others to know about being transgender, Zack is straightforward: “Some people think it’s just a phase or that something’s wrong with you, but only you get to decide who you are.” To younger kids facing similar journeys, his advice is firm and empowering: “If someone tells you it’s a phase, don’t listen. Take being called ‘weird’ as a compliment.”
Aya: “I’m a Girl. No Biggie.”
Aya, also 9, uses she/her pronouns and has been transitioning gradually since she was five. From wearing dresses and choosing Halloween costumes as a girl to changing her pronouns over several years, Aya’s story is one of thoughtful self-expression and steady affirmation.
She fondly talks about her hobbies—making rubber band bracelets with Rainbow Loom, biking, playing Minecraft and Dungeons & Dragons—and her favorite foods (notably avoiding chocolate!). Aya’s choice of her name is personal and meaningful: it reflects family connections and her growing sense of identity.
Aya’s school experience has been largely positive, with teachers and classmates accepting her transition. She even brought in the book I Am Jazz, a story about a transgender girl, to help educate others—a testament to her desire for understanding and inclusivity.
When asked what she wishes people knew about being transgender, Aya says simply: “It’s not any different from anybody else. I’m a girl. No biggie.” She encourages younger kids not to let anyone convince them they shouldn’t be who they are and emphasizes that feeling “wrong” before coming out is common but temporary.
Her family’s openness and proactive communication with relatives and friends have created a supportive environment where Aya feels seen and respected.
The Bigger Picture: Listening, Learning, and Supporting
The stories of Violet, Zack, and Aya offer powerful insights into the experiences of transgender youth: the courage to be authentic, the resilience to face misunderstanding or prejudice, and the profound need for acceptance and community.
These young voices challenge society to move beyond stereotypes and misconceptions, reminding us all that gender identity is deeply felt and real. They highlight the crucial role of supportive families, educators, and peers in nurturing a safe space for every child to thrive.
If there’s one overarching message from these kids, it’s this: being transgender is not a phase or a choice—it’s simply who they are. And in a world that often demands conformity, their bravery to live their truth inspires us to expand our understanding and compassion.
