After Begging to Breaking Barriers: Zoya Thomas Lobo now battling once again
After Begging to Breaking Barriers: Zoya Thomas Lobo now battling once again
India’s first transgender photojournalist, Zoya Thomas Lobo, is once again battling societal and professional neglect despite her remarkable achievements.
At just 11 years old, Zoya Thomas Lobo’s world changed forever. The untimely demise of her father left her family struggling to make ends meet, and it was around this time that Zoya, born biologically male, began to experience gender dysphoria. From navigating the hardships of her identity to breaking into the world of photojournalism, Zoya’s journey is a testament to resilience and passion. However, her inspiring rise is now shadowed by the harsh reality of professional neglect, forcing her to once again beg for survival on Mumbai’s local trains.
Humble Beginnings and Struggles
Born in Mumbai’s Mahim area in the mid-90s, Zoya grew up in a family of three with her father, mother, and elder sister. The death of her father, who worked as a security guard, left the family in dire financial straits. Zoya dropped out of school in Class 5 and started taking odd jobs to support her family, working at a bakery, a theatre, and even as a receptionist.
Zoya faced ridicule and rejection for her gender identity. Her mother initially disapproved but eventually came around, accepting her as her daughter. Begging became Zoya’s primary source of income, earning her ₹500–₹800 daily, enough to cover basic needs but never enough to dream big.
A Chance Encounter with Photography
In 2018, Zoya’s life took a pivotal turn when she came across a short film, Hijra Shraap Ya Vardaan, on YouTube. Displeased with the casting of a cisgender actor in a transgender role, Zoya commented on the video, which caught the attention of the filmmakers. She was cast in the sequel, for which she received critical acclaim and her first acting award.
At the success party, a local media representative offered her a reporter’s job after noticing her confidence and English-speaking skills. This marked Zoya’s entry into journalism. During her assignments, she developed an interest in photography, saving money from begging to purchase a second-hand camera. She began capturing street life, protests, and wildlife, finding joy and purpose in freezing moments of reality.
Rising Fame During the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic brought Zoya into the limelight. While traveling on a local train, she came across migrant workers protesting outside Bandra station. She rushed home to get her camera and documented the event. Her photos were picked up by multiple publications, marking her debut as a photojournalist.
Zoya went on to capture various phases of the pandemic, including vaccination drives, and gained recognition for her raw and evocative work. She also secured assignments from major companies like Google, HSBC, and KBeauty, as well as opportunities in TV journalism.
Fading Opportunities
Despite her talent and determination, Zoya’s career has dwindled in recent years. She now struggles to find meaningful work, relying on small assignments like birthday party photography. Living in a rented room in a Mumbai slum, she spends most days begging on trains to cover her ₹4,000 rent and other basic expenses.
“I want to take a great photo and gift it to PM Narendra Modi,” Zoya shared, expressing hope that her art might bring her the respect and opportunities she deserves.
Unyielding Spirit
Zoya’s journey from begging to breaking barriers reflects her extraordinary grit. She has faced rejection, societal discrimination, and professional neglect, yet she continues to dream and fight for her place in the world. As India’s first transgender photojournalist, Zoya’s story reminds us of the resilience needed to overcome the dual hurdles of identity and opportunity.
Her hope remains unwavering: to be recognized for her art and to inspire change in society’s outlook toward the transgender community.
