Famous British Trans People: Trailblazers Changing UK Culture and Visibility

27/08/2025

Editor:

Olena Kosonogova

Author:

Olena Kosonogova

Olena Kosonogova (she/her), is PR Manager and a writer at Fiorry. Olena has a background as a psychologist and social work specialist, offering her a distinct viewpoint in her position. She effectively oversees public relations and produces insightful content. Based on her experience, she has a unique insight into human interaction and the significance of effective communication. When not busy with her profession, Olena loves her free time and balancing it out with tennis, taking her out and about, and a game of good chess that will challenge the mind.

When we talk about celebrities in the UK, many think of pop stars, award-winning actors, or top models walking the runways of London Fashion Week. But there’s another group of cultural trailblazers whose contributions often go far beyond entertainment — famous British trans women who have transformed the way society views trans people.

From historical trans figures who faced a hostile world to modern-day icons making waves in film, fashion, and activism, these women have shown courage, talent, and resilience. Their achievements tell a broader story about trans history, trans inclusivity, and the fight for transgender equality in Britain.

April Ashley — Historical Trans Figure & Model Pioneer

Born in Liverpool in 1935, April Ashley’s early life was marked by hardship and a deep sense of being different. Assigned male at birth, she joined the Merchant Navy in her teens but soon left, feeling disconnected from the life she was living.

In 1960, April traveled to Casablanca to undergo gender reassignment surgery, becoming one of the first Britons to do so. Her transformation opened doors in the fashion industry, where she modeled for Harper’s Bazaar and worked with top photographers.

Tragically, her career was disrupted in 1970 when the British tabloids exposed her transgender status, a public outing that caused widespread discrimination at a time when gender identity was rarely discussed openly.

Despite this, April became a tireless activist, campaigning for transgender equality and eventually being recognized with an MBE in 2012. She also played a role in shaping public understanding of the Gender Recognition Act, which gave trans people in the UK the right to a new birth certificate matching their true gender. Her legacy as a historical trans figure continues to inspire both older and younger trans women.

Pioneering transfigure

April Ashley

I’m not a victim. I’m a survivor

Munroe Bergdorf — Model & Activist Extraordinary

Munroe Bergdorf’s name has become synonymous with bold, unapologetic advocacy. Born in Essex, she began her career in modeling, but quickly made headlines when she became the first openly transgender person to model for L’Oréal UK.

Her firing after speaking out about racism only amplified her voice, leading to a much larger career as an activist for trans issues, mental health, and human rights. Munroe has been featured in campaigns for major fashion brands, written for top publications, and appeared in documentaries tackling discrimination and gender norms.

She often shares her personal life experiences with gender dysphoria, highlighting the importance of trans inclusivity in education, healthcare, and the fashion industry. Whether speaking to young people at schools or addressing the UN, Munroe embodies the idea that visibility can create lasting change.

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Alex Consani — The New Wave in Fashion

Alex Consani has quickly risen to prominence as a successful model, making headlines for her work with top designers and editorial magazines. She embodies the shift towards more inclusive beauty standards in the fashion industry, where transgender models are finally gaining the recognition they deserve.

Her portfolio includes campaigns for luxury brands and appearances in high-profile runway shows, cementing her status as one of the most exciting faces in modern fashion. Beyond modeling, Alex uses her platform to speak about trans visibility and self-expression, encouraging young people to embrace their individuality.

Her career reflects both the glamour and the challenges of working as a trans woman in high fashion, navigating the pressures of mainstream exposure while staying connected to her personal life and values.

Paris Lees — Writer, Broadcaster & Activist

Paris Lees is a prominent trans journalist and campaigner who has been influential in advancing trans rights and visibility in the UK. She’s written for The Guardian and Dazed, presented documentaries for the BBC, and was the first openly trans person to be a presenter at the BAFTA awards.

Paris’s work often focuses on challenging media stereotypes and fostering acceptance through storytelling. Beyond journalism, she actively mentors young trans people, helping to amplify new voices in the community. Her outspoken advocacy continues to shape public conversations about gender, identity, and equality across Britain.

India Willoughby — Trailblazer in Broadcast Media

As Britain’s first transgender national television newsreader, India Willoughby broke one of broadcasting’s biggest barriers. She later became the first trans woman to co-host ITV’s Loose Women, bringing trans representation to daytime TV audiences across the UK.

Her career hasn’t been without controversy — the media has often scrutinized her transgender status, and she’s faced both praise and criticism for her outspoken advocacy. But India remains committed to improving trans inclusivity in journalism and television, showing that trans women can thrive in high-profile, mainstream roles.

Yasmin Finney – The Rising Star

Yasmin Finney is one of the brightest new talents in British acting. Best known for her role as Elle Argent in the hit Netflix series Heartstopper, Yasmin has quickly become a role model for young trans people worldwide.

Her casting in Doctor Who for the show’s 60th anniversary specials brought even more visibility to trans representation in mainstream British television. Yasmin speaks openly about her experiences growing up as a Black trans girl in Manchester, using her platform to inspire others and advocate for diversity in casting.

At just 20 years old, Yasmin represents the new generation of trans celebrities who are breaking barriers in the entertainment industry while staying authentically themselves.

Miya Ocego — Rising Star in British Television

Miya Ocego’s acting work in the BBC series Wreck has been praised for its authenticity and nuance. By portraying a trans character, she brings visibility to transgender people in mainstream entertainment and challenges stereotypes about what kinds of roles trans actors can play.

Off-screen, Miya advocates for better trans inclusivity in casting and storytelling, emphasizing that representation matters not just for trans people, but for shaping the broader society’s understanding of gender identity.

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Ash Palmisciano — Breaking Barriers in Soap Opera

Ash Palmisciano made history as the first trans actor to join ITV’s Emmerdale. His role as Matty Barton is groundbreaking not just because of the casting, but because the character’s storyline addresses gender dysphoria, transition, and life as a trans man in a rural British setting.

Ash also works as a public speaker, addressing young people about mental health, discrimination, and finding the courage to live as your true self. His work is helping to normalize transgender issues in spaces where they’ve long been absent.

Bel Priestley — Young Actor & Social Media Star

Bel Priestley represents the new wave of transgender equality in entertainment. Growing up in London, she began documenting her transition on TikTok, building a community of followers inspired by her authenticity.

Her breakout role came in the Netflix series Heartstopper, where she plays Naomi, one of the first openly transgender characters in a major British teen drama. Bel has spoken openly about the pressures of growing up trans in the public eye, balancing her personal life with a career that is still blossoming.

For young people questioning their gender identity, Bel is living proof that you can be both your true self and a success in mainstream entertainment.

Hannah Graf — Military Leader & LGBTQ+ Advocate

Hannah Graf’s story is a rare and powerful example of trans inclusivity in the armed forces. A former British Army captain, she transitioned while serving, becoming the highest-ranking transgender person in the military at the time.

She used her platform to speak about trans issues in the British Army, advocating for better policies around transgender equality and mental health. Her marriage to filmmaker Jake Graf, a trans man, has made them one of Britain’s most recognized trans couples. Together, they’ve worked on projects highlighting transgender history, human rights, and the everyday realities of trans people.

Asifa Lahore — First Muslim Drag Queen, Trans Woman

Asifa Lahore is a performer, activist, and cultural pioneer. Known as Britain’s first openly Muslim drag queen, she has used her art to challenge society’s expectations around gender, sexual orientation, and faith.

After coming out as a trans woman, Asifa became an even more vocal advocate for transgender equality, trans inclusivity, and representation for trans people in diverse communities. Her story highlights how embracing one’s true self can inspire others to confront prejudice and build understanding across cultural divides.

Sophie Rebecca — Ballet Dancer & Trans Advocate

Sophie Rebecca made history as the UK’s first openly trans female ballet dancer to perform with the English National Ballet. She’s a strong advocate for trans inclusion in classical dance, breaking barriers in a traditionally rigid art form. Her journey highlights the intersection of gender identity and physical expression in the performing arts.

Sophie uses her platform to inspire aspiring dancers who face challenges around gender norms and body image. Through workshops and speaking engagements, she promotes greater acceptance and understanding in the world of ballet and beyond.

The Role of Allies & Media in Supporting Trans Women in the UK

While the courage and talent of famous British trans women have been the driving force behind greater representation, allies in media and entertainment have played a significant role in making those voices heard. From television writers creating authentic trans characters to casting directors willing to take risks on fresh talent, change is happening — though often more slowly than it should.

British productions such as Heartstopper, Doctor Who, and Emmerdale have shown how mainstream TV can integrate trans narratives without reducing them to token roles. In the fashion world, trans models have found opportunities with the support of designers and photographers committed to inclusive casting, while journalists and broadcasters have begun pushing back against sensationalist coverage.

High-profile allies — from actors who share the screen with trans co-stars to producers advocating for diverse hiring behind the camera — help create an environment where trans women can thrive on their own terms. These partnerships matter because they shift the narrative from one of marginalization to one of collaboration, creativity, and mutual respect.

Model

Munroe Bergdor

We need allies who speak up when it’s uncomfortable, not just when it’s convenient

By working together, trans and cis voices in British media are dismantling old stereotypes and proving that trans representation benefits everyone, not just the trans community.

The Evolving Story of Trans Britain

From April Ashley’s courageous stand in the face of British tabloid cruelty to Munroe Bergdorf’s global activism, Bel Priestley’s TikTok-powered rise, and Ash Palmisciano’s soap opera breakthrough, these famous British trans women have redefined visibility in the UK.

Their collective journey shows that progress is possible, but also that the fight for trans equality, trans inclusivity, and respect for gender identity is ongoing. They are not just celebrities — they are pioneers, role models, and living proof that being your true self can change the world.

As the next generation grows up seeing trans women in mainstream media, fashion, politics, and the British Army, the hope is that transgender people will no longer have to fight for basic recognition. Instead, they’ll be free to focus on their talents, ambitions, and the everyday joys of life — just like anyone else.

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FAQ

How has trans representation in UK media improved in recent years?
Trans representation in UK media has improved through authentic portrayals in popular shows like Heartstopper, Emmerdale, and Doctor Who, along with more trans people working as actors, writers, and presenters. This growing visibility helps break stereotypes and promotes trans inclusivity.

What challenges have British trans women historically faced in gaining recognition?
Many British trans women, like April Ashley, faced public outing, discrimination, and limited legal protections. Despite these challenges, their resilience paved the way for progress such as the Gender Recognition Act and greater societal acceptance over time.