Famous Canadian Trans People: Icons Breaking Barriers
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.
Canada is known for its Hollywood talent, chart-topping musicians, and record-breaking athletes — but it’s also home to trans trailblazers changing the face of history. These remarkable trans people are redefining visibility, breaking barriers in their industries, and opening doors for future generations. From award-winning actors in Toronto to trans activists fighting for equality across Canada, these figures are not just icons; they’re living proof that authenticity can change the world.
Below, we spotlight some of the most inspiring Canadian transgender people — each making waves in their own way.
Quinn – Olympic Gold Medalist and Soccer Trailblazer
Quinn, who uses they/them pronouns, became the first openly transgender person to win an Olympic medal when they helped lead Canada to gold in women’s soccer at the Tokyo 2020 Games. A midfielder for the OL Reign and formerly the Washington Spirit, Quinn has been outspoken on trans rights, inclusion in sports, and the importance of creating safe spaces for trans youth.
Their presence on the field is a powerful statement in a sports world that often struggles with gender inclusion.
Off the pitch, Quinn has worked closely with the International Olympic Committee to help shape inclusive guidelines for athletes of all gender identities, proving that representation matters at every level. They continue to use their platform to raise awareness and inspire young trans people to dream beyond limitations.
Michelle Dumaresq – Mountain Biking Champion
Michelle Dumaresq’s journey is one of grit and courage. A transgender woman from British Columbia, she entered the competitive world of downhill mountain biking in the early 2000s and quickly became a national champion. Despite facing intense discrimination — both from competitors and the media — she refused to hide her true self.
Her victories on the track challenged stereotypes about trans women and sparked national debates about gender expression in sports. Today, Michelle continues to compete in select events, while also serving as a public speaker and mentor for trans youth. Through workshops and educational resources, she shares her story to encourage inclusivity and fight against discrimination in athletic spaces.
Jackie Shane – Soul Music Legend
The late Jackie Shane was a groundbreaking Black transgender woman and soul singer who became a key figure in Toronto’s 1960s music scene. Known for her electric stage presence and emotive voice, she stood out in a time when few artists dared to be openly themselves. Jackie’s songs and interviews reflected a fierce sense of identity, making her a cultural icon for both the trans community and the history of Black lives in Canada.
Her 2019 posthumous Grammy nomination introduced her to a new generation, and her legacy is celebrated in documentaries, music videos, and academic works on transgender studies. Jackie Shane’s fearless authenticity continues to inspire conversations about trans issues and the importance of living unapologetically.
Julie Lemieux – Canada’s First Openly Transgender Mayor
In 2017, Julie Lemieux made history as the first openly transgender person elected mayor in Canada, leading the small town of Très-Saint-Rédempteur in Quebec. Her election marked a milestone for trans rights in politics, showing that representation matters even in local government.
A skilled carpenter before entering public service, Lemieux has championed social justice, rural development, and equal opportunities for all residents. Her leadership style blends practicality with empathy, proving that political office is not just for career politicians but for people committed to making their communities better. Her victory sent a powerful message about the role of openly transgender people in leadership and inspired others in small towns to run for office, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.
Elliot Page – Actor and Advocate
An Academy Award–nominated actor from Halifax, Elliot Page is one of the most recognizable trans people in the world today. Known for roles in Juno, Inception, and Netflix’s The Umbrella Academy, Page came out as a trans man in 2020 through a heartfelt social media post that reached millions globally.
Since then, Page has used his platform to raise awareness about trans issues, advocate for mental health, and support the trans community through public speaking and activism. He’s been featured in major interviews and documentaries, offering an honest look at the realities of medical transition and public life as a transgender person. His candid discussions about gender expression and resilience have made him a trusted voice for trans youth navigating their own journeys.
Harrison Browne – Professional Hockey Player
Harrison Browne broke barriers in 2016 when he came out as the first openly transgender man in North American professional hockey, playing for the Canadian Women’s Hockey League team, the Toronto Furies. His announcement brought trans people in sports into mainstream conversation and highlighted the need for inclusivity at all levels of athletics.
Browne has since retired from professional play but remains a transgender activist, working with sports organizations to develop policies that protect trans youth and athletes of all identities. His visibility has challenged outdated stereotypes about who belongs in professional sports. Even off the ice, Browne continues to inspire fans, athletes, and allies to embrace their true self without fear.
Interested in exploring more about transgender dating in Canada? Check out this comprehensive guide to trans dating communities, tips, and safe spaces.
Aaron Devor – Scholar and Transgender Studies Pioneer
Aaron Devor is a groundbreaking academic who became the world’s first Chair in Transgender Studies at the University of Victoria in British Columbia. His work has helped shape the field of transgender studies, providing vital educational resources and conducting research that challenges myths about gender identity and gender expression.
Beyond academia, Devor serves as the founder of the Transgender Archives, the largest collection of trans-related materials in the world, ensuring the preservation of trans community history. He’s also a sought-after guest speaker who addresses global audiences about trans rights, discrimination, and the importance of understanding diverse gender experiences. His work bridges scholarly insight with activism, making him a key figure in advancing equality for transgender people everywhere.
Biff Naked – Rock Music Icon and Advocate
Biff Naked, a celebrated Canadian singer-songwriter, is known for her fearless style, powerful stage presence, and outspoken support for trans rights and social justice. Though she herself is not transgender, she has long been a vocal ally of the trans community, using her platform to uplift trans people in the music industry and beyond.
She has spoken openly about mental health, sexuality, and the importance of living your true self without shame. Through benefit concerts, music videos, and public campaigns, Biff has helped raise awareness for trans youth and other marginalized groups. Her career shows how allies can play a crucial role in promoting inclusion and challenging harmful stereotypes in popular culture.
Kai Cheng Thom – Writer, Poet, and Activist
Kai Cheng Thom is an award-winning transgender woman of Chinese descent whose work spans poetry, novels, and social commentary. Based in Toronto, she’s known for writing about trans issues, mental health, and social justice with both tenderness and sharp political insight.
As a public speaker and transgender activist, Thom has delivered talks across Canada, offering educational resources and personal stories that connect deeply with audiences. Her books — including Fierce Femmes and Notorious Liars — explore themes of resilience, gender expression, and love within the trans community. By blending art with activism, Thom has become a vital voice for trans youth and marginalized people seeking representation in Canadian literature.
Looking for connection beyond inspiration? Discover authentic relationships and meet people who truly understand you through trans dating on Fiorry.
Julie Vu – Model and Social Media Influencer
Julie Vu, also known as Princess Joules online, is a Vietnamese-Canadian transgender woman who has built a massive following through her YouTube channel and Instagram. Based in Toronto, she shares her journey through medical transition, fashion, and personal growth, offering visibility and hope to trans youth across Canada.
As one of the most well-known openly transgender people in Canadian social media, Julie has collaborated with brands, appeared in short films, and been featured in popular culture discussions about beauty standards. She also uses her platform to talk openly about mental health and discrimination, proving that authenticity and vulnerability can inspire millions.
Brennan Clost – Actor and Dancer
A talented performer from Ontario, Brennan Clost is best known for his role in Netflix’s Tiny Pretty Things. While primarily recognized as a gay man and professional dancer, Clost has been outspoken about supporting transgender people and advocating for broader LGBTQ+ representation in entertainment.
His performances in television and music videos often highlight the beauty of diverse identities, while his public appearances have shown solidarity with trans rights and the fight against discrimination in the arts. By championing inclusivity, Clost reflects how artists can help reshape popular culture for a more accepting future.
Viviane Namaste – Author and Researcher
Viviane Namaste is a transgender woman and respected researcher whose work focuses on the lived experiences of trans people, especially in the context of human rights, healthcare, and sex work. As a professor at Concordia University in Montreal, she’s produced influential research that addresses the intersection of gender identity, sexual orientation, and public policy.
Namaste’s books and lectures have become essential educational resources for understanding transgender people in Canada and beyond. Her advocacy extends to trans youth, marginalized workers, and the broader trans community, ensuring that research leads to real-world policy changes. Through her scholarship, Namaste has strengthened the bridge between academia and activism in the fight for equality.
Celebrating True Selves in Canada
From Olympic medalists to groundbreaking activists, from celebrated actors to influential academics, these famous Canadian trans figures remind us that authenticity has the power to transform not just personal lives, but entire communities. Each has navigated their own challenges — whether in politics, sports, art, or scholarship — while pushing the conversation on trans rights, gender identity, and equality forward.
Their stories are more than headlines or moments in popular culture. They are proof that living as your true self can inspire change, create safer spaces for trans youth, and challenge outdated ideas about gender expression. In sharing their journeys, they’ve given countless transgender people the courage to step into the spotlight, whether on a global stage or in their own neighborhoods.
Canada’s trans community is rich with talent, resilience, and vision. And as more voices rise — in Toronto, British Columbia, Quebec, and beyond — the message becomes louder: every person, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, deserves to live openly, without fear, and with pride.
Every trans person should be able to live free from discrimination as their true, visible selves
Ready to connect with trans people near you? Discover genuine friendships, support, and love by exploring local trans connections on Fiorry — your space to belong and thrive.
FAQ
1. Who are some of the most influential transgender Canadians mentioned?
The article highlights figures like Quinn, the Olympic gold medalist; Elliot Page, the actor and advocate; Julie Lemieux, Canada’s first openly transgender mayor; and Aaron Devor, a pioneer in transgender studies.
2. What types of challenges have these transgender Canadians faced?
Many have confronted discrimination, prejudice, and stereotypes in sports, politics, entertainment, and academia, yet they have persisted to raise awareness and promote equality.
3. How have these individuals impacted Canadian society’s view of gender identity?
Their courage and visibility have helped change perceptions, inspired younger generations, and contributed to more inclusive policies and communities across Canada.
Time to read: 10 min.
Soccer player
Quinn
Sport has the power to change the world — but only if everyone is welcome on the field