Former TV presenter, radio host and actor Ayanda Makuzeni has transitioned into a transgender woman. The child star, who now goes by the name Aya is embracing her new identity. Speaking exclusively to ZiMoja, the former child star says she is living her dream and feels liberated after being 'trapped' in the wrong body her whole life.
Aya, who has been a fixture in the entertainment industry since her childhood and a former Hectic99 presenter, says her transitioning journey started two years ago. "Yes, I have been going through the transition for the past two years. I started by taking hormone that softened my voice and also to grow breasts," she said. She also expressed her gratitude for the love and support she has received from her family, friends and some of her followers. She also acknowledged the challenges that come with being a transgender woman in a society that can be harsh and unforgiving towards those who do not conform to traditional gender norms. "I don't care what people say or think of me, it all starts with self-love and self-assurance.People will always have something to say no matter what, this is my life and my body," she adds.
Despite these challenges, Aya remains committed to living an authentic life and is inspiring others to do the same. She has become a powerful advocate for the transgender community and has used her platform to raise awareness about the issues faced by trans people in the county. "We need more representation in the media, the more trans people we see important spaces the better. I want to make sure that I use my voice to help those who feel trapped," she adds. Her announcement has been met with an outpouring of support and admiration from her fans and colleagues in the entertainment industry. Many have praised her courage and openness and have expressed their hope that her story will help to break down the stigma and discrimination faced by trans people in society.
She admits that it has not been an easy journey for her as some productions have rejected her. "In SA we still have a long way to go, some people don't look at talent and the value you bring, they look at your sexuality and gender yet we have the same talents as straight people if not more," she says. Asked why she decided to transition, she says: "I have always been flamboyant, and I knew since that I was born that I was a woman. I decided to take my time, to learn about my body, build my confidence and to be financially stable." Although she has not completed her journey, Aya says she won't stop until she is satisfied with her results and progress. "So far I have not gone all the way, I am still undergoing the process until I get the results I am looking for," she adds. She says so far, her biggest challenge is reintroducing herself. "I mean it can get confusing to some people. Some last saw you as a man and now you come back as a woman, but this is who I am and my talent is still the same," she laughs. Apart from working behind the scenes as the producer and influencer, she also conducts workshops and trains upcoming actors and TV presenters. She is also working on a documentary about her journey of becoming a trans woman.
