Today we’d like to introduce you to Ajay Holbrook.
Hi Ajay, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
At the age of five I realized something was a little bit different about myself. Biologically born female, but knowing inside that I saw myself as male, I think I understood pretty early on how different my life would be. At the age of 17, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery that led me to embrace my identity as a transgender individual. Now, at 27, I stand as a proud and successful bodybuilder, sculpting my physique with determination and resilience. I have hit incredible milestones in my journey and made headway in the media with my story. From a segment on CNN aired for the world to see, a cover on LA times “image” magazine, and a publication in Men’s Health. I have made tremendous leaps for not only myself but my community. Alongside my dedication to fitness, I have found solace and expression through music creation, channeling my experiences and emotions into captivating pieces. Through my unique journey as an out and proud trans man, bodybuilder, and musician, I truly just strive to inspire others to embrace their true selves and pursue their passions with unwavering authenticity.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. The second I figured out who I was, I knew that I would face many obstacles and plenty of judgment. Knowing this, I still decided to pursue my dreams and follow my heart, fully aware that it would be a very tough road ahead. I moved from Texas, the place I called home my entire life, to California about six years ago with nothing more than the money in my back pocket.
Not aware that California came with a handful of its own tough roads.
I ended up in a lot of terrible situations, not understanding how much different and more expensive California was from my home, living in garages, living with crazy roommates, and living in hotels at one point, all in the name of following my dreams and pursuing my passions.
I think the hardest part was really just doing everything alone, not having family to call on because they’re so far away, trying to understand how to navigate a new place while also making sure that I’m focusing on the things that I came out here to focus on. But in reality, I don’t think I would’ve wished for a smooth road. I think the challenges and struggles bring a certain type of grit to my story and to my journey that allows me to fuel the strength and resilience that I carry.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
When it comes to work, or it comes to what I’m most known for, I would probably say that it would be bodybuilding. Or, more specifically, It would be being a transgender bodybuilder in the media. I started my platform in 2015 and centered it around my fitness journey from the start, so a lot of the people who have been following me have been following me for almost 10 years, and this has been specifically due to my bodybuilding journey and gaining the mass and strength that I’ve been blessed with.
I guess in a way my work is considered advocacy so I would also say I am an advocate for trans representation.
My main goal with this type of representation I think would be just to show another side of trans people, because I feel like a lot of times there’s a certain idea or weak assumption when it comes to trans Individuals, especially in mainstream media.
I am most proud of the inspiration that I’m able to provide to a community that is oftentimes seen as weak or vulnerable. I pride myself on being a strong voice and strong presence throughout the world because I know I can handle the backlash and everything that comes with it. I’m so proud of who I am, and I am proud of everything I have accomplished, and I will accomplish moving forward.
I think my resilience and determination is exactly what sets me apart from everyone else I know what I’m capable of, and I know exactly what it takes to get there.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I would proudly give credit to my mother. She’s been my biggest support system and really the only person that I’ve had in some of my darkest moments. I would also give credit to my supporters and people that have been following me for all of these years, cheering me on supporting every decision I’ve made, congratulating me for every success I’ve had, and every milestone. Some of these people have literally been following my life closely for all of these years, and to me, that means the world. There’s been times like when I was living in a hotel, where the support of these people were the only thing that made me keep going, and to them, I will be forever grateful.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @Ajayholbrook
- Facebook: Ajay holbrook
- Youtube: Ajay holbrook
Image Credits
Ajay Holbrook
