The people you see in this issue illustrate trans life in their corner of the world, and help show us the true meaning of beauty, international or otherwise. Our two part interviews cover both the cultural heritage and personal beliefs of these brave individuals, and inspire greater understanding of transgender experiences around the world.

Fish, Thailand

TWITTER: @ShemaleFish

What do you like to do in your free time? Shopping of course, I love to go out with my friends and buy nice clothes. Hanging out in shopping malls, dining and going to cinemas. I also love listening to music, being home alone dancing to music by Beyoncé for hours. I love to laugh with friends.

Are there any memorable characters who had impact on your life? Beyoncé – of course. The first time I saw the video of “CRAZY IN LOVE” her beautiful skin, dance moves, and sexy voice inspired me. I wanted to be like her. She is a hard working woman that is following her dream, so I do.

Health is very important to you. What are some of your top tips? Fruits and vegetables are delicious and very healthful. I love almost all kinds. My ex-boyfriend introduced me to natural herbs – these make you strong and healthy. I suggest the combination of these three to all of you. It cleans the body and makes you beautiful – like me (lol).

Unfortunately, I can’t cook at all (smile).

What are you the most proud of so far in your life ? What are you working towards now? I am proud to be the person I am right now – Fish – It was hard to be the person I am right now.

I am happy that many people around the world know me as a nice person. I am very proud that I have mastered all negative obstacles in my life. I am dreaming of being an international transgender model for fashion and lingerie or maybe an international porn star (smile) haha.

What has acceptance come to mean to you? I am more than happy and delighted that my family, especially my mother, the person I love most in the world, is still loving me same or even more than before as a transsexual in my family. I am proud that my family supports me and that my mom is proud of me in what I am doing and what I am.

Part one of this interview can be found in Transformation 96: The International Issue