Jasmyne - Zest Stories

What motivated you to join the Future Proof team with Zest?

‘My mum always encouraged me that I'd stand on stage someday and share my story, just by being myself, and I knew I wanted to keep sharing my story after Camp Phoenix. When Future Proof came up, I didn’t even have to think about it. I just said, yeah, where do I sign up?

‘Remembering all the people who encouraged me to share my story made joining Future Proof feel right, but what really hit home was attending the vigil for Brianna Ghey. Standing in front of hundreds of people on stage with my best friend, Kadey, made me realise just how powerful our voices are, especially as trans women. That moment showed me how much it means to help others feel heard, and it motivates me to keep sharing and bring positive LGBT stories into the world.’

In what ways has your involvement with Zest influenced your career path?

’Leading make-up workshops at The Zone changed everything for me. It wasn’t just about showing others how to express themselves; it made me confident in my own art and creativity. It’s why I put together a portfolio and ended up at the London College of Fashion studying hair, makeup, and prosthetics. Knowing I could make people feel glamorous and empowered helped me see that this was the path for me.

‘Being part of Future Proof set a high standard for what I want in a job. I need a place that's welcoming and celebrates who I am. I was relentless about finding a workplace with zero tolerance for transphobia or homophobia, and now I know I deserve nothing less. Working at a queer-friendly bar has been amazing for me. I love making cocktails and having conversations where I can just be myself. No negativity, just support and acceptance.’

How have your experiences with Zest benefited you personally?

‘Zest and Future Proof gave me the confidence to speak up and truly believe my words matter. Standing on stage with Camp Phoenix showed me people wanted to hear what I had to say. Future Proof has especially given me a community that feels like a real family. Listening to everyone’s experiences made me much more open-minded and understanding, with each session leaving me feeling richer in knowledge and empathy for others.

‘Speaking at the Arts Council England conference in Salford was one of the biggest moments of my life. Standing on that stage, emotionally sharing experiences and still being listened to and applauded, made me realise my voice has real weight and that sharing my story can be part of my career, not just something I do on the side.

‘I honestly didn’t expect older professionals, people in healthcare, youth work, or even the Arts Council to connect with my experiences as a young trans woman. However, the way they approached me afterwards, asking questions and showing genuine respect, proved that my perspective belongs in those spaces and motivated me to strive higher in my work.’

Could you share any standout moments, stories or achievements with Zest?

‘Speaking at The Lowry, Salford for Refresh Your Perspective was honestly one of the highlights of my life. Standing on that stage, I felt emotional and overwhelmed in the best way, like everything I’d ever experienced finally made sense. When I shared my story, even people who might not have understood my journey really listened and showed me a great deal of respect. I’d never felt so “seen” by a room full of strangers, and it left me feeling inspired and valued.

‘Working at The Zone allowed me to connect with young people in a truly honest way. Watching them grow confidence and knowing I played a part, that’s something I’ll always treasure.’