When it comes to body positivity and non-binary genders, we still have a long way to go. For the longest time, we have been conditioned to identify with either male or female genders and idealise Euro-centric beauty standards. However, Mona Varonica Campbell, India’s first plus-size transgender model, redefined beauty and gender norms when she decided to celebrate her body and her sexual identity. Although her father would have liked for her to be a doctor, she ditched conventional life to create something extraordinary for herself.
Source: Instagram/monavaronicacampbell_official
Campbell identified as a woman from a very young age, even though she was born in a male body. When she was 12 to 13 years old, much to the chagrin of her father, she’d watch Fashion TV with a fascination that would go on to define her life. Around 2005-2006, Campbell participated in and won the Miss India Trans Queen in Hyderabad. Her success made her realise that it was time to physically transform into a woman and also begin a career in the fashion industry. Since then, she has worked as a costume designer, makeup artist, and a model. Her first stint at the Lakmé Fashion Week saw her walking the ramp as a showstopper.
Source: Instagram/monavaronicacampbell_official
Today, she’s a sought-after model internationally. However, on home turf, she struggles to find work in an industry that only awakens to the existence of the queer community during Pride month. By her own admission, several Indian brands have asked her to work with them for a paltry amount or free of cost. Campbell says that it’s unfortunate that she has to resort to representing international brands as they offer her the money and respect she deserves. It says a lot about our country that still needs to accept all genders and truly start representing people. But that doesn’t deter Campbell, who maintains: “Beauty shouldn’t be categorised as trans, cis, gay, bi or straight. Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, it’s about equality. Don’t wait for opportunities, create your own. Work hard, grab whatever opportunities come your way, and success will come knocking at your door.”
Source: Instagram/monavaronicacampbell_official
Today, Campbell is pursuing a dual PhD degree at Stanford University in the United States of America. Apart from working hard at her academics, Campbell is also a lifestyle influencer who is often jet-setting to exotic places and working with reputed brands. Campbell is an inspiring woman who set the path for many more to follow.
Social and lead image credit: Mona Varonica Campbell
