Meet Zahara
Zahara's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Zahara (she/her) shares, "I am a non-binary intersex survivor of domestic abuse and medical malpractice. I have struggled for much of my life, however, I am on a path of healing, peace, and understanding, and it took me a long while to get here. This care will provide me with renewed external self-confidence that will match the work I have been doing internally."
"I am hyper-aware of my perceived flaws. I have extensive painful scarring and hair growth that makes it difficult for me to feel confident at times, particularly when it comes to my performance," Zahara explains. "I am grateful for the help to overcome these issues; it means so much to me."
Zahara is an activist, non-profit worker, performer, artist, and a lover of nature and humanity. "I have a creative mind and a desire to bring some sort of change to the world in whatever small ways that I can," she says.
Receiving support for hair removal would significantly improve Zahara's quality of life, helping her feel more comfortable and confident in her identity while allowing her to focus on her activism, art, and performances without the burden of dysphoria and self-consciousness.
Zahara's timeline
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Award Granted
April 11, 2024
Zahara was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Zahara get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Zahara'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.