Zoya Thomas Lobo, known as India’s first transgender photojournalist, has an inspiring story of resilience and determination. However, despite her remarkable achievements, she now faces professional and societal neglect, forcing her to return to begging for survival on Mumbai’s local trains.
A Challenging Childhood
Zoya grew up in Mahim, Mumbai, in the mid-90s, with her parents and elder sister. Her father, a security guard, passed away when she was just 11, leaving the family in financial hardship. Zoya, born biologically male, also began struggling with gender dysphoria around this time.
Forced to leave school in Class 5, she worked various jobs, including in a bakery, a theatre, and as a receptionist, to support her family. Facing ridicule and rejection for her gender identity, Zoya found solace in her mother’s eventual acceptance, though her journey remained tough. She turned to begging on Mumbai’s trains, earning ₹500–₹800 a day to meet her basic needs.
Discovering Photography
In 2018, Zoya’s life took a turn when she watched a short film, Hijra Shraap Ya Vardaan, on YouTube. Upset by the casting of a cisgender actor in a transgender role, she commented on the video, which led to her being cast in its sequel. This earned her critical praise and an acting award.
At the film’s success party, a journalist noticed her confidence and offered her a reporter’s job. During her reporting assignments, Zoya developed an interest in photography. Saving money from begging, she bought a second-hand camera and began capturing street life, protests, and wildlife, discovering a passion for freezing real-life moments.
Rising to Fame During the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic brought Zoya into the spotlight. She documented migrant workers protesting outside Bandra station and captured various moments of the pandemic, including vaccination drives. Her powerful photos were featured in major publications, and she secured assignments from companies like Google, HSBC, and KBeauty. She also worked in TV journalism.
Struggles Resurface
Despite her talent, Zoya’s career opportunities have dried up. Today, she survives on small jobs, like photographing birthday parties, and continues to beg on local trains to pay her ₹4,000 monthly rent for a small room in a Mumbai slum.
Unwavering Hope
Zoya’s journey from begging to becoming a trailblazing photojournalist highlights her courage and determination. She faces rejection and discrimination daily but continues to dream of being recognized for her art and changing society’s view of the transgender community.
Her story is a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by marginalized communities and the importance of supporting talent and equality. Zoya remains hopeful, fighting for a brighter future and inspiring others with her resilience.