Conversations with Kyra Jete

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kyra Jete.

Hi Kyra, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story. 
Life as a drag queen has been a continuous journey that intertwines creativity, expression, and empowerment. For me, drag is not just about getting dressed up in fabulous costumes and makeup but also about embracing authenticity and challenging societal norms. 

Growing up I have always felt like I’ve had a calling for the stage, and I didn’t know which exact stage that would be until I had discovered the world of drag. I first started dabbling in drag at the age of 16. It wasn’t until the age of 19 that Kyra hit the stage, entering a local drag competition, which changed my love for drag even more. It wasn’t too long after this that I had asked Calypso Jete Balmain to be my drag mother and that is how I became a part of the Legendary Haus of Jete. As the years progressed, I continued to make a name for myself by competing in drag and looking for throughout LA. 

As a kid, I had the belief that drag was a taboo thing to do. But being able to see how drag was slowly but surely starting to be more and more accepted, although still with more progression to come, I found inspiration to want to pursuit drag for myself. Not only was it the artistry, but drag alone was such an inspiring thing for me to see at such a young age. Seeing queer people of all backgrounds live their true colors. That, for me, spoke louder than anything in the world. 

Along my journey of drag, I have now managed to work in bars in West Hollywood, being a cast member at Rocco’s, and continue to perform in bars and gigs throughout California. After being in Los Angeles for some time, I made a drastic move to relocate to San Francisco, where that had challenged me to get out there and grind harder than ever before. Mind you, this was during the pandemic. Which this was a very challenging time for drag. I did not let that stop me but only push me harder. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Life as a drag queen has come with a unique set of challenges. From navigating discrimination towards the lgbt community to managing the demands of performance schedules. These challenges only serve to strengthen my passion for drag and to further push my boundaries. Although some believe that drag is a crime and should be banned, I don’t let that stop me from being able to live in my true colors. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar with what you do, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a drag performer for work. That entails many things, from performance, costuming, hair and makeup, networking, and business management. Over the last few years, I taught myself how to sew so that I could bring my own creations to life. 

What do you think about happiness?
I really find happiness whenever I have the opportunity to perform and do drag. There is something that makes me happy to be able to do what I love to do. People come out to see drag for many reasons and I love having the opportunity to bring a smile to someone’s face, entertain them, and just be able to possibly make a difference in their life the way that me seeing drag changed mine. 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: instagram.com/kyrajete

Image Credits
Sean Vadella
Dylan Thai
Joseph Guzzino
Jorge Barragan
Rachel Ziegler