Who Am I?
I am Ruby
I was born in the slums of Karachi, Pakistan as a Muslim woman. I was indoctrinated with shame in the name of honour, culture and religion. I learnt to suffer in silence and put the needs of others above mine.
I was sexually abused as a child and then, emotionally and sexually abused as an adult.
Despite all this, I had one critical gift.
My mother’s upbringing.
She taught me to take a stand for myself and be strong. She taugt me the value of critical thinking.
It was her support that allowed me to leave Pakistan.
Then, began a journey of exploring, questioning, healing and reclaiming my gender and my sexuality
It has taken years to heal the shame that took hold of me when I was very young.
Let’s hope that the journey is much shorter for you…