Meet Namira
Namira's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Namira (she/her) is a Black trans woman facing dire financial need. "I'm unemployed and, while I have had jobs in the past, they've refused to schedule me due to my presentation," she shares. "I have been harassed on one occasion and had to leave my job because of it. As a result, I have not been able to get electrolysis at a pace right for me."
Namira is also a student, living with family but receiving no support for her transition. "I must pay for tuition and other expenses out of pocket," she explains. "I deal with my facial hair by shaving daily, and because of this and my skin type, the bottom half of my face is discolored, and my neck is heavily scarred."
"Receiving any aid with hair removal services would mean freedom to me," Namira says. "I want to participate in the world around me and do everything I can to live my life the way I've always dreamed of."
Namira's timeline
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Award Granted
April 5, 2024
Namira was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
August 22, 2024
A payment has been made toward Namira's permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Namira get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Namira's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- After 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.