“I started the Trans Equality Society to support the transgender community, focusing on consistent pathways in health, livelihood, and self-respect. A historic change began today with the Telangana government appointing 20 transgender persons as Security Guards in Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited, four of whom are from our Trans Equality Society.

Holding those appointment letters represented not just employment, but dignity and recognition. This milestone is rooted in years of effort, including setting up an HIV care clinic with UNAIDS, vaccination drives, and building SAKSHAM, a skill development programme with multiple partners.

I’ve been part of legal aid camps, health camps, and awareness sessions, working tirelessly to create a more inclusive space. Walking in the Hyderabad Queer Swabhimana Yatra reminded me how far visibility can take us. The Transgender Help Desk at Gachibowli Police Station was another step forward — for the first time, I felt a government space truly welcomed us. The state has taken encouraging steps like appointing transgender traffic assistants, starting Mythri Clinics, and setting up Pride Place under the Women’s Safety Wing. These may seem small, but they matter deeply to the transgender community.

The Hyderabad Metro recruitment is a significant step, and I hope it paves the way for more opportunities in railways, hospitals, education, and other departments — a future where every transgender person can live with pride and equal opportunity.”

— Ms Jasmine, Founder, Trans Equality Society