This episode of Queering The Air features a segment that Sasja Sÿdek is particularly excited about, joined by co-host Madison Moffat. As a co-founder of Trans Sisters United, Sasja passionately advocates for the importance of SISTERHOOD. This episode was strongly inspired by a recent event honoring Mama Gayzha, a cherished transgender icon from Naarm/Melbourne who sadly passed away, leaving the transgender and queer community in shock and seeking closure. Originally from the Philippines, Mama Gayzha had lived in Naarm for several years and was widely recognised for founding the Miss Gay and Miss Trans International Australia pageants, which she began hosting in the 2010s.

Mama Amao, our beloved trans elder and leader, reached out to Sasja right after hearing about Mama Gayzha’s passing, expressing her wish to support the community during this difficult time. Sasja contacted Rebeckah Loveday for permission from the Filipino trans community to organise a memorial for Mama Gayzha. After receiving approval, Mama Amao used her platform to seek support from various organisations. Together, Sasja, Mama Amao, Rebeckah, and Dee initiated a beautiful and respectful event. Although Mama Amao may not have known Mama Gayzha personally, she recognises the significant impact Mama Gayzha had on Filipino transgender women in Naarm and others from diverse backgrounds. Mama Amao embodies true leadership by advocating for trans women and the power of sisterhood. She will join Sasja in the studio to share insights on finding strength in sisterhood.

Amao Leota Lu is a proud Samoan Fa’afafine and an Indigenous Pasifika trans woman of colour. She is a trans community advocate and consultant. Her work spans over thirty years in the fields of education, health, the arts and radio. For twenty of those years Amao has been actively involved in LGBTIQA+ community affairs both locally and internationally. She advocates strongly for both her trans women and queer people of colour communities and is best known for her community role as Auntie.