Growing up in a big Samoan family in Sydney, I was raised in a very sheltered yet very traditional Samoan cultural household, with strict rules and religion. I was always the black sheep or very different by nature.

But I am more than flesh and bone, color and gender.

I don’t follow labels or feel a sense of belonging by category.

I’ve always felt a free spirit within my soul, even when being caged by family, society, and culture.

Now, in adulthood, I feel included and respected as an equal to my siblings and other family members, as my true authentic self.