Meet Celestina
Celestina's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Celestina (she/they) is a 26-year-old nonbinary trans femme living in Puerto Rico, where they’re striving for independence, safety, and the freedom to transition in the place they call home. Recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree, Celestina is currently under the financial control of their transphobic father, and finding employment has been incredibly difficult.
“I don’t want to immigrate,” they share. “I want to live, work, and transition here.” But living in a conservative environment poses daily risks, especially when visible facial hair invites harassment. Celestina has been harassed in both men’s and women’s public bathrooms and shares that sometimes, passing is simply a matter of survival.
They recall a recent job interview where, because their laser hair removal grant had run out and their facial hair was visible, the interviewer told them they “weren’t femme enough to be hired” and “weren’t trans enough.” Experiences like these have made it clear: “Laser keeps me safe, happy, and on my way to financial independence.”
At one point, Celestina canceled all their laser appointments to save money for a community print shop by and for trans people. “Books, photographs, and posters have always been revolutionary,” they share. “I want to safeguard that fire for us.”
For Celestina, access to hair removal is about much more than appearance—it’s about dignity, safety, and the right to thrive.
Celestina's timeline
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Award Granted
April 15, 2025
Celestina was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$2,375 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Celestina get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Celestina'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.