Meet Maryam
Maryam's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Maryam (she/her) is a Two-Spirit trans woman who has only recently been able to embrace her true self. Living in a rural area with no access to job opportunities, she remains rooted there because it's where her loved ones and support system are. “I have no money,” she shares, “but I am a good partner to my significant other.”
Maryam is a mother, a passionate naturalist and spiritualist, an amateur investigative reporter, and a proud eco-socialist. Her identity is tied to both her traditions and her values, and transitioning openly has been a deeply personal, spiritual process.
Since coming out, Maryam has faced frequent harassment and intentional misgendering in her community. These experiences have been painful, making it even harder to survive in a place where trans women are not always safe or accepted.
Receiving gender-affirming hair removal care would be transformative for Maryam. It would not only ease her daily struggles with dysphoria, but also help her feel more confident and safe in public. Most importantly, it would allow her to be recognized and accepted for who she truly is—both by herself and by her traditional community.
Maryam's timeline
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Award Granted
April 17, 2025
Maryam 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 Maryam get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Maryam'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.