Born: 1979 (Malacca, Malaysia)
Biography:
Nisha Ayub (born April 5, 1979) is a Malaysian transgender rights activist who has made significant contributions to the advancement of transgender rights in her country and beyond. She is known for her work as the co-founder of the community-run SEED Foundation and the transgender grassroots campaign Justice for Sisters. Ayub has been a tireless advocate for the rights and well-being of transgender individuals in Malaysia, where they face discrimination and legal challenges.
Ayub was born in Malacca, Malaysia, on April 5, 1979. Coming from a background of mixed maternal Indian, Ceylonese, and paternal Malay descent, she grew up in a family that adhered to Christian beliefs. However, Ayub’s father passed away when she was six years old, and she was subsequently raised by her mother, who had converted to Islam. From a young age, Ayub felt a strong sense of identity as a woman, evidenced by her childhood memories of wearing a selendang (shawl) while dancing to Bollywood songs and participating in a fancy dress competition as a ballerina. These early experiences helped shape her understanding of her true self.
As a transgender woman in Malaysia, Ayub confronted the challenges posed by the enforcement of Islamic sharia laws that prohibit individuals assigned male at birth from dressing or behaving as women in public. Violation of these laws can lead to fines and imprisonment. In 2000, Ayub was imprisoned for three months under these provisions, an experience that was marred by sexual assault and dehumanization. She bravely endured humiliation and abuse, emerging from this ordeal with an even stronger determination to fight for justice and equality.
Ayub’s activism extends beyond her personal experiences, as she has devoted her energy to empowering others in the transgender community. Through non-governmental organizations, she offers counseling, career development training, healthcare support, and legal assistance to transgender individuals. Ayub’s goal is to address the various challenges they face and to create a society that values their rights and well-being.
Her relentless advocacy efforts have garnered international recognition. In 2015, Ayub received Human Rights Watch’s Alison Des Forges Award for Extraordinary Activism in recognition of her bold actions opposing Malaysian laws that harm and oppress individuals seeking to live in peace. The following year, she became the first openly transgender woman to receive the prestigious International Women of Courage Award, further solidifying her status as a global leader in the fight for transgender rights.
Ayub’s impact also extends to the city of San Diego, where April 5th has been declared as Nisha Ayub Day. This proclamation by Mayor Kevin L. Faulconer recognizes Ayub’s ongoing dedication to fighting for equality and protection, not only within Malaysia but also for all individuals worldwide.
Nisha Ayub’s legacy continues to inspire countless individuals to challenge social norms and fight for justice and equality. Through her unwavering determination and resilience, she has become a beacon of hope for transgender individuals and a driving force behind much-needed change in society.
Awards:
– Human Rights Watch’s Alison Des Forges Award for Extraordinary Activism (2015)
– International Women of Courage Award (2016)