Gigi Gorgeous, the popular internet personality, has embarked on a reflective journey as she marks over a decade in the content creation industry. At 34 years old, Gigi, who first gained recognition on YouTube, speaks candidly about her experience of coming out as transgender, the evolution of her career, and the importance of visibility for the trans community.
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The Canadian-born social media star began her YouTube venture as a teenager, initially sharing her makeup skills with a growing audience from her bedroom. In 2013, she took a significant step in her life and career by posting a heartfelt video in which she came out as trans. Filmed on the floor of her parents’ home, the footage marked a pivotal moment for both Gigi and her viewers, as she became one of the first public figures to openly share her transition journey in this digital space.
Reflecting on her early days, Gigi admits that like many who grew up in the spotlight, she occasionally feels embarrassment when looking back at her younger self. “If you’re online for so long, posting every single day, you’re gonna have some times where it’s a little bit embarrassing,” she stated in a recent interview. However, she emphasises that her journey was authentic, as she learned and grew alongside her audience. “I didn’t really have any guidelines,” she recalls, noting the absence of similar coming-out stories in the media at that time.
As her following soared, Gigi used her platform to share every step of her transition, becoming a prominent figure in popular culture for many within the trans community. Despite the opportunities that came her way—from brand endorsements to business ventures—she faced internal struggles. “Did they make a mistake? A trans girl—this is new for this brand or this company,” she remembers thinking, revealing the feelings of imposter syndrome that haunted her during significant moments in her career.
During those formative years, Gigi found it challenging to connect with a community of individuals who shared her experiences, highlighting a sense of isolation that many trans individuals can relate to. She describes that time as somewhat “lonely,” as she poured her heart into her content without a close-knit support system. However, she is heartened by the increased visibility and acceptance for trans people today, stating that opportunities have grown significantly, particularly during Pride Month.
Reflecting on the current landscape, Gigi has noticed an increase in support and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community compared to when she first launched her YouTube channel. She acknowledges the importance of genuine allyship, being vigilant about brands that engage with the community beyond just the month of June. “You always have to keep in the back of your mind” the sincerity of corporate support when it comes to queer rights, she asserts.
Gigi is also using her platform to advocate for crucial issues such as reproductive rights. Recently, she teamed up with the Fertility Friends Foundation to establish The Gorgeous Grants, aiming to alleviate financial hurdles for those seeking fertility treatments. After sharing her own IVF journey, Gigi has become a passionate advocate for addressing the disparities that exist in access to reproductive health.
When asked what advice she would give to her younger self, Gigi expresses pride in the courage she displayed at that time, emphasizing her fearless nature. “I would maybe say to be a little less hard on yourself and a little less insecure,” she reflects, understanding that the pressures of youth can often distort one’s self-image. Gigi encourages living life fully, reminding herself that “it was never that deep” in moments of self-doubt.
While she acknowledges a few “cringe moments” in her past, Gigi embraces her journey wholeheartedly, stating, “I don’t regret anything.” As she continues to inspire others through her work, her evolution as both an individual and an influencer remains a testament to the power of authenticity and resilience in the face of adversity. Gigi Gorgeous stands as a beacon of hope for many, proving that embracing one’s truth can lead to a life filled with passion, advocacy, and community support.