Q&A with Qatrisha Zairyah
White Room Studio recently had the pleasure of interviewing Qatrisha Zairyah, a trailblazing model, fashion advisor, and advocate for women, especially within the transgender community. In this candid Q&A, Qatrisha reflects on her journey as Singapore’s first transgender finalist for Miss Universe Singapore 2024, shedding light on her advocacy for gender inclusivity and the challenges she’s faced and overcome along the way. With her charismatic personality and drive for positive social change, Qatrisha embodies resilience and self-empowerment. She speaks passionately about Singapore’s growing acceptance and shares insights into her experiences at international pageants, her thoughts on professional photography’s role in brand-building, and her commitment to fostering a more inclusive environment. This interview offers a glimpse into the strength and grace that define her mission to inspire and uplift others.
Can you tell us a bit about your journey and what motivated you to become an advocate for women, especially within the transgender community?
Qatrisha: “Well, I’m here not just to be transgender representation. I represent women of all backgrounds. I felt that to be a role model or a beauty queen isn’t limited to a specific gender. It has to come from individuals who can serve as a voice and a positive example for future generations. It is so important for this aspect to be relatable in our society. By embracing this idea, we could have a better environment with more inspiring people around us.
I felt that you just have to be who you are as an individual or as a person. To be a representation not just for our community, you have to be a great representation of yourself and be the best version of yourself in order for society to accept people like us.”
I remember you mentioned Singapore and how it has changed and how it has progressed. Can you speak a little bit more about it?
Qatrisha: “Well, when I was in Miss International Queen last year in Pattaya, I was one of the representatives from Singapore, where I got first runner-up in Pattaya. I spoke a lot about our country and the acceptance, especially when we’ve done our sex reassignment; we can change our gender identity legally. I think it’s a good stepping stone for us, our community especially, to be more accepting and also good for our future generations.”
Since you mentioned Pattaya, you noted that this dress was made in Thailand. Could you tell me more about it?
Qatrisha: “Well, this dress is made to measure right on my body because last year when I participated in a pageant, I had sponsors from Gracemae Bangkok. They sponsored me for my preliminary and final evening gown. This year, I participated in Miss Universe Singapore 2024, so they asked me, “What can we help you with?” Of course, I needed another beautiful gown again. I felt that it really represents me and my personality as a person, and they know my body morphology and what they are doing. They asked me, “What color do you prefer?” I said, “Silver.” It’s going to be outstanding for me on stage because I had one before in the preliminary and received a lot of compliments. When I wore this, when I walked, a lot of people thought I was gliding down the aisle, and I think I’m serving it very well.”
What advice would you give to trans women regarding relationships, especially in light of your recent separation?
Qatrisha: “In my recent separation from my ex-husband, I learned a lot. He’s a good person who allowed me to be who I am from day one until now because we knew each other from national service when I was still a boy, and until I became a successful woman. For me, the message I would spread to the younger generation or those who are going to be on that path is to just be yourself. Whoever is going to love you will love you as a person. No one can justify who you are as an individual except for yourself. Be true to yourself and to the people out there, especially in society.”
How was your experience with White Room Studio?
Qatrisha: “Okay, so the shoot went very well today. I was amazed by all the photographers and videographers. I felt that there’s no need for editing because I see everything there, and it was so good. I can’t wait for the final outcome to be out.”
How important do you think professional photography is in building a strong personal brand, especially in today’s social media-driven world?
Qatrisha: “Well, I feel that photography is very, very important in social media nowadays, especially on the platforms I have. I think I need to portray more of myself, and for a photographer to be able to adapt well to their models, or a person like me, I think it would be good enough for us to portray the best version of ourselves in whatever we are doing.”
How do you think White Room Studio’s photographer handled that?
Qatrisha: “He did so well. He actually directed me in ways that I was amazed by his work. I’ve never done that before, and he put in a lot of work, directing me to certain poses that were very unusual for me. I loved it when he showed me everything, and I can’t wait to see them.”
You love the final product?
Qatrisha: “Very good. You don’t have to edit.”
You’ve built a powerful brand through your journey in fashion and advocacy. How do you see professional photography, such as that offered by White Room Studio, contributing to the way the public perceives you?
Qatrisha: “Well, I feel that whatever you see on social media is just the front door. Actually, behind it, for the photographer to know more about our personality, it’s actually to create a bond and to tell the stories. Not just from how we speak, but from the pictures themselves.”
White Room Studio specializes in capturing authentic and timeless moments. If you were to have a personal branding photoshoot with White Room Studio in the future, what key elements or messages would you want the images to convey about you?
Qatrisha: “Well, I believe in the advocacy of “Home for a Change,” which resonates deeply with my personal experiences. Having struggled to pay rent in the past, this initiative feels very relatable to my journey. Through a partnership with White Room Studio, I see a wonderful opportunity to further develop this advocacy and share my story. I want the images from the photoshoot to convey resilience, hope, and the importance of affordable housing. It’s not just about capturing my essence; it’s about using my platform to explore and promote the causes I believe in, making a positive impact in our community.”
As we wrap up this insightful interview with Qatrisha Zairyah, it’s clear that her journey is one of resilience, authenticity, and a profound commitment to social change. Through her advocacy and achievements, she’s breaking boundaries and redefining standards in both the fashion and transgender communities. Her dedication to being a voice for women of all backgrounds is truly inspiring, and her partnership with White Room Studio beautifully captures the essence of her mission. We are honored to have had the opportunity to share her story and look forward to seeing how her influence continues to grow, inspiring future generations to embrace diversity and inclusivity.
Our 2400 square foot studio nestled in the heart of River Valley is more than just a room filled with equipment; it’s been a sanctuary of families, moments of joy, sorrow, and everything in between immortalized through the lens. With every shutter, it has not only frozen a moment in time but also etched emotions, stories, and aspirations into pixels.
DOWNLOAD RATE CARD
“The studio was fantastic, and I think every corner is perfect for a photoshoot. The photographer and videographer were incredibly professional and guided me to get the best shots possible.“
– Qatrisha Zairyah
Browse through our amazing gallery and feel the experience our clients have with White Room Studio!