Jestin's story

"It’s been so freeing to be able to live unambiguously as my true self."

I’ve been Trans Officer for two years now. I was the first one ever to take on the role, as it’s only been put into place relatively recently; the LGBTQ+ Officer used to represent everyone under that umbrella, but we split the role into two different positions, the LGBQ+ Officer and the Trans Officer, to ensure that everyone is properly represented. It’s been a bit of a challenge as there’s been no blueprint as to how the role should be carried out, but I’ve achieved a lot of things I’m proud of, such as modifying the University’s name change policy to make it more inclusive.

Knowing that I’ve been able to help other students come out, to live openly as trans or to access hormones, that’s really been wonderful. The SU has helped me a lot with my confidence; it’s helped me be more open about being transgender. It’s been so freeing to be able to live unambiguously as my true self. Essex has truly become my home.