A Life-Changing Journey: Fund Zara's Fight for Her True Self

My dear friends and kind souls,

My name is Zara, and I am a South Asian trans woman in the UK.

I am reaching out to you because I desperately need help to continue my medical and surgical transition. My journey started four years ago, and every step since has been a battle—one I have fought with every ounce of strength and every penny I’ve earned. Unfortunately, many of the treatments I need are not covered by the NHS.

A year ago, I reached a point in my transition where surgery became essential. I am asking for your help to afford gender-affirming facial surgery. Raising even a small fraction of my goal would completely change my life.

I know some people see facial surgery as merely cosmetic, but for me, it’s about survival. This surgery is not about looking conventionally beautiful or appearing younger. It’s about finally seeing a reflection in the mirror that doesn’t bring me to tears. It’s about feeling safe, living authentically, and no longer being a target for the relentless hate I face daily.

A few months ago, I was attacked by a gang of men in London who realized I was a trans woman; My previous neighbour has thrown eggs at me; and strangers on the street have spat in front of me, humiliating me. These are just a few of the countless incidents I endure. Each day feels like a battle to hold on to my dignity and safety.

Medical transition is incredibly expensive, and the NHS does not cover Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS). The cost is so overwhelming that I can’t possibly afford it on my own. A lot of my family members do not support my transition, leaving me to navigate this journey alone. Coming from a South Asian Muslim background, I’ve faced not just cultural rejection but also deep isolation.

Right now, I work in a restaurant earning minimum wage, and the little I make barely covers my rent and bills. I am drowning in debt from utilities, heating costs, and bank overdrafts. Every day feels like a fight just to keep going.

I’ve always done my best to give back to the LGBTQ+ community. I dance at charity events, speak out for trans rights, and support others like me. But now, I need to ask for help. As much as I’ve tried to navigate this journey on my own, I’ve come to a point where I can no longer carry this weight by myself.

I often wonder why life feels so punishing. Why am I denied the privilege to live a normal, happy life like every other woman deserves? I didn’t choose to be born with gender dysphoria. But I have chosen to fight for my truth. I am just asking for the chance to live as myself—to breathe freely without fear, to exist without shame.

I have consulted with a gender-affirming surgeon who has carefully prepared a surgical plan for me. I am extremely fear of needles, but I am ready to take that courageous step—to walk into the operating room and lay myself on the surgical table—but I cannot make this a reality without your support.

Please, if you know me, if you’ve seen my dances, heard my talks, or shared a moment of kindness with me—if I’ve served you a meal at the restaurant where I work—please consider donating. If you can’t donate, sharing this page would mean the world to me.

I don’t want to leave this world without truly living as myself.

I breathe the same air as you, and my heart is as kind and gentle as yours. Trans individuals like me need your love and support while we still have the strength to endure and continue to take each breath.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

— Zara