Meet Siphesihle: A 22-year-old transgender man
Siphesihle was born a female but knew from a very young age that he identified more as a male. He now identifies himself as a transgender person.
He is the youngest of three children, born and bred in Kwa-Zulu Natal, but now lives in Cape Town. Siphesihle grew up in a very loving family surrounded by laughter and support.
Listen as Siphesihle chats to Thandolwethu:
Read more about Siphesihle below:
Childhood:
As a young girl, I gravitated more to what is seen as the more masculine toys and activities. Whilst my female friends would be obsessing with the new Barbie doll, I would be interested in playing outside with the boys with wire cars.
I knew I was in the wrong body when:
Around the age of six or seven was when I knew that I was in the wrong body. My body was changing and I was at the age where I could choose the clothes I wanted to wear. So, while my female friends at that age were opting for the colourful, flirty dresses, I would opt for baggy jeans and t-shirts.
The first person I told:
The first person I shared my discomfort of being in the body that I was in was my partner at the time. She was very supportive and didn't make a big deal about it. Throughout our time together she was encouraging and understanding.
My family's reaction:
I have been very blessed. My 'coming out story' was received really well by my immediate family. I am most grateful for this as I know that this is not the norm for many transgender people, especially in the African culture.
Transitioning:
I have had a double mastectomy in which the breast tissue was removed and my chest was reconstructed. It is a three to four part procedure. I currently do not have any plans for further surgeries. I am also on hormone therapy.
What I wish people knew:
That transgender people's lives are valid just like anyone else and that we are as real in our gender identity as anyone else. I wish people especially in the black community were more receptive to having conversations about gender identity.
By sharing his story, you can help Siphesihle spread the word and help dispel the misconceptions about what it is to be transgender.