As a non-binary transmasc immigrant, Lombardo says it was important for him to tell the stories of those who “share a similar journey” to him, who moved to a “different country for a better life” but soon realised it was “not as as easy as expected”. 

“Leaving home and creating a new life in a different country is challenging for everyone,” Lombardo tells GAY TIMES, “but this is harder for trans people who often face issues with the administration not respecting our identities”. 

Despite this, Lombardo explains that, for many trans individuals, the UK is a “place where they feel safe and free to live their authentic lives” because of how they’ve been wholly embraced by the country’s LGBTQ+ community.

Having no trans role models for Lombardo to look up to in the mainstream influenced his decision to show people that “there is no unique way of being trans, that we come from different backgrounds and nationalities, that we have different gender expressions and styles, and that all of our stories are valid and deserve to be celebrated”. 

“The first trans people I saw in the media were so badly portrayed that it delayed my gender exploration and coming out,” he reveals. “Sometimes, I’m angry about the amount of internalised transphobia I still hold because of the awful representation I had growing up. But, anger can be a good feeling because it leads to action. 

“So, I want to use my voice to create the representation I didn’t have as a child. The people I photograph are gorgeous, and I want the world to see them in all their beauty.” 

While Lombardo’s aim was to “show the beauty of the trans community” with this photo series, he says it was also important to stress how much work needs to be done “to create a welcoming and peaceful environment” for trans and non-binary immigrants in the UK. 

“Especially for trans people of colour, even if they can feel safe here in their gender identity, they still face racial discrimination” continues Lombardo. “The UK government and media have to work a lot to make this country a safe space where the dignity of life is respected.” 

Lombardo’s photo series is part of a GAY TIMES and Channel 4 campaign to spotlight local Pride events across the country, titled #ProudAllOver. 

Pride celebrations have dramatically increased in the UK this year, with approximately 180 events taking place. This campaign demonstrates how communities in rural locations come out and support the Pride movement. 

Lombardo says it’s important to “highlight local stories” due to the mainstream media’s focus on Pride events in major cities, such as London, Manchester and Brighton. 

“Also, the media only write about trans people when they want to debate our existence,” the self-taught photographer explains further. “Queer folks rarely have the space to tell their side of the story, and we are so tired of the cis-het gaze. We must be the ones telling our stories. This local Pride event is an opportunity to do that.” 

Visit our hub to keep up with the #ProudAllOver road trip and learn more about the brilliant regional and local Pride events in the UK, and see all the incredible photos from Cohen’s stunning series below. 

Kika (She/They/He), Uruguay

“Pride to me is a celebration, but mostly a manifestation. Specially this year because of everything that’s going on, I am going there to protest more than to celebrate. I was able to explore my gender identity when I left Uruguay, because even though in my country we have now many laws that help queer people, it’s still a close-minded place. In Uruguay I never feel I can dress in the way I got dressed today for the photoshoot without fearing harassment. Leaving my country was an opportunity to explore my gender and my identity in general.”