NGO’s 2020 calendar recognises trans achievers

The first and second copies were received by Maharashtra MP Supriya Sule and South Chennai MP Thamizhachi Thangapandian at her home respectively.

Initiated in 2014, the calendar brings to light the achievements in various fields by 24 transgender people from across the nation. The featured individuals are from previous year’s Trans* Achievers Awards, an annual event held by the organization since 2013.

“The mainstream media and public have not appreciated our efforts over the years. Therefore, it falls on the transgender community to recognise and honour the efforts from other transgender people and spread awareness on their achievement to the public,” said Swetha Sudhakar C, the founder of the trust.

The proceeds from the sale would go towards funding the skill training programmes held by the trust for transgender people and also to support transgender entrepreneurs. In 2014, the proceeds went towards care for HIV-positive children and in 2015, it was used to meet the nutritional costs for cancer patients.

“People consider us to only be people who beg or do sex work. That is not the case. Through the featured transgender people and the sales proceeds, we are showing that we could also contribute to the betterment of society,” said Swetha, adding that the calendar was made in-house.

Those interested in buying the calendar can contact the Trust through their Facebook page, or pick up the calendar in person from their office in Saidapet. The calendar costs Rs 500, excluding courier charges, and would be available until March 31.