Skip to content
Point of Pride staff will be on a break from Dec. 24–Jan. 2. Responses may take longer during this time. Thank you for understanding!

Meet Malika

Malika

Malika's story

Electrolysis Support Fund recipient

Malika (she/her) is a dedicated college student who is currently experiencing homelessness and living out of a shelter. Balancing her studies with the need to earn enough money has made it impossible to afford electrolysis. Her dysphoria around shaving is severe, forcing her to stay in boymode out of fear of harassment.

Malika shares, "My hope for after having facial hair removal is my dysphoria being significantly lessened and being able to present with less fear of ridicule or harassment." This support would allow her to present as her true self, helping her move forward with confidence and focus on completing her degree.

Malika's timeline

  • Award Granted

    April 9, 2024

    Malika was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!

  • Care Received

    May 13, 2024

    A payment has been made toward Malika's permanent hair removal!

  • Care Received

    June 6, 2024

    A payment has been made toward Malika's permanent hair removal!

  • Care Received

    July 2, 2024

    A payment has been made toward Malika's permanent hair removal!

  • Care Received

    September 4, 2024

    A payment has been made toward Malika's permanent hair removal!

Grant details

$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.

TikTok-a-Thon grantee





About Hair Removal: Femme Award

On average, it costs $2,300+ for Malika's care.

What is it?

Point of Pride provides grants to trans femme people seeking hair removal on their face, neck, or an area of the body in preparation for bottom surgery.

What is life like for a person who needs this care?

For trans femme folks, particularly trans femmes of color, access to facial hair removal often equates to safety against anti-trans violence or discrimination. It's common for applicants to note issues with employment and public safety, particularly if their facial hair is dark or thick. Electrolysis and laser hair removal services are often deemed cosmetic and therefore not covered by health insurance plans.

What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?

Access to hair removal often leads to a more positive emotional well-being, increased confidence, increased safety when in public, and better opportunities at employment and more.