Brazilian model Lea T will becomes the first openly-trans woman to participate in an Olympics opening ceremony as the Olympic games officially start in Rio tonight.
Lea T told BBC Brasil, “I can not say anything yet, we need to keep the surprise But the message is very clear:.. Include all, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, color, race or creed, we are human beings and we are part of society My role in the ceremony, a micro and representative universe, will help convey this message.”
Lea T was born biologically male before having sex reassignment surgery, reports TeleSur. As an adult she moved to Italy and worked with many international fashion brands, becoming the first transgender woman to sign a contract with an international beauty company.
“At this time, in which Rio de Janeiro and Brazil will be presented to the world, it’s essential that diversity is present. Brazil is a vast country and all its diversity should be somehow represented in this event,” she said.
Watch the Opening Ceremony of the 2016 Rio Olympic Games on NBC.
