Pursuing your dreams

Rizwan, a gender-diverse taiohi living in our Te Whare Huapai whare in Kirikiriroa, has always dreamed of becoming a famous catwalk model. With the support of both their transition youth workers, along with a strong community network, Rizwan is making huge progress toward their goal.

Both youth workers worked closely with Rizwan, encouraging them to push forward despite the challenges they’ve faced. Through community connections, Rizwan has signed a modelling contract in Tāmaki Makaurau officially launching their professional career. They have also been offered paid work as an extra in a film and has a photo shoot booked to feature in a magazine.

Recently, Rizwan completed their first major fashion show with Miracle Rain in Tāmaki Makaurau. This was a massive opportunity, judged by highly influential figures in the industry including the first Māori wahine to hold the Miss World International title, the director of New Zealand’s Next Top Model, New Zealand’s top model, and Miss India.

Rizwan thoroughly enjoyed this experience and was awarded Miss Innovation, a huge achievement that recognised their unique presence and impact on the runway. The judges’ feedback to Rizwan was incredible affirmation, telling them that they will go far.

Judges from the panel were moved by Rizwan’s journey and provided a lot of encouragement to Rizwan as a young transgender.

Jaydee, one of the Miracle Rain NZ judges is organising a beauty pageant and fashion show specifically for transgender participants and has invited Rizwan to take part and also to be “the face” of the pageant. This is a massive step for Rizwan, not only in following their dreams but also in creating opportunities for others like them.

Rizwan’s next major events will include the Mr & Mrs Aotearoa beauty pageant this year, followed by the Winter Fashion Show with Miracle Rain. Exciting!

Rizwan’s determination and hard work is paying off and proving that with the right support, resilience, and passion they can make a lasting mark.

We are beyond proud! We’re super excited to see what the future holds for Rizwan.

[Photo from left to right: Rizwan with Jadee Martin, one of the Miracle Rain NZ Judges]

— This story was first featured in Harikoa magazine (issue 1, 2025).