LA based transsexual supermodel Alexia Acosta has big beauty and an even bigger heart. This super steamy T-Girl took some time to speak with us about her transformation and dreams.
Eros Zine: Where did you grow up and where do you live now? Are you a native Spanish speaker?
Alexia Acosta: I was born and raised in Veracruz, Mexico and now live in Los Angeles. Yes, Spanish is my first language and English is my second.
EZ: You've been on so many magazine covers. Do you enjoy the process of photo shoots? What's that experience like for you?
AA: Yes, I really enjoy it. When I do the photo shoots I feel I am in contact with the fans because the camera represents my fans to me. It's like I know when I'm posing that people will see me just like that, and in some way I feel I can see them too and be closer to them.
EZ: You've also done a lot of television. What's the strangest thing that ever happened to you on TV?
AA: Well, once when I was doing a performance on a Spanish language television show I had a Janet Jackson experience, LOL. My nipple actually popped out of my top, and at first I didn't even notice it. When I did see it I felt a little embarrassed.
EZ: When did you begin living day-to-day as a woman? Was there a catalyst or was it a gradual decision for you?
AA: I first started living as a woman when I almost 16 years old. I feel it was something I always knew was right for me. I mean, I always knew I was a little girl inside and that something was wrong with me being born a boy. That was when I first started to understand my body, and when I met my first transsexual I realized that this was right for me.
EZ: Any words of wisdom to people just beginning their transformational journey?
AA: Yes. If you feel that you are in the wrong body, you are not alone. There are many others out there who are experiencing the same thing as you. It takes time and a lot of practice to become a feminine woman. But if you really want it, nothing can stop you!
EZ: When did you begin modeling? What do you feel like on a runway?
AA: I first started modeling in 1999. When I'm on the runway I feel a little nervous, but at the same time I'm excited and sure of myself. The most important thing for me is to be as sexy and glamorous as I can be to show the people that transsexuals can be just as beautiful and talented as natural women.
EZ: You're a fan of singers Paulina Rubio and Patty Manterola. What draws you to them?
AA: Yes, and don't forget Thalia. I guess I am fans of theirs because I like their style and attitude. They are not only beautiful, but they're also smart and independent women. I guess that's why I always try to model my career after people like that.
EZ: Do you like bad boys or nice guys?
AA: I would definitely say nice guys. There is nothing like a smart and ambitious man. Sure ,some bad boys look great, but it's more important for me to be with a gentleman who is smart, funny, and nice. I need to be with someone who is like me, who understands my dreams. Looks are nice, but they are secondary to everything else.
EZ: How often do you travel?
AA: I love to travel as often as I can. I really enjoy traveling to new places, even if it's just for a few days. It's a kind of escape for me I guess. Modeling is a great career for me because it gives me chance to always be on the move. I am not the kind of person who enjoys staying in the same place all the time. Traveling gives me freedom and the feeling that I am always pursuing my dreams.
EZ: What kind of people do you gravitate towards?
AA: Hmm, well I definitely like to be around people like myself, people who are ambitious and never give up on their dreams. I learn a lot about myself by being with people like that. And I appreciate smart people. I need to have a good conversation sometimes. Somebody who is as crazy as I am� well maybe not that crazy. Someone I can talk to about many things from the stars to history to science and of course fashion, LOL.
EZ: Do you fight for any causes or do any charity work?
AA: I like to think I help fight for all the transsexuals in the world. To give them a voice. So many people just want to shut us out and they need to know we are people too, we have feelings, and we have talent. I have participated in several charity events, and I definitely like to be active in helping others who may not be transsexuals but still need our help. I think that is what we as human beings are supposed to do. When someone is down, we help them up the best we can. I would not be where I am today without the help of many people and fans, so I never feel I can give too much back.
EZ: What's next for you?
AA: Well, right now I am concentrating on promoting my current projects like the "Jack Girls" and our new independent distribution company Valhalla Sky. Someday with this company I hope to give opportunities to struggling and talented artists who would normally not have a shot at success. Of course I am a student first, so I want to finish my studies in acting, music, and dance. I always feel that there is more to learn so it is a love for me. Another dream of mine is to produce my own music CD, so look for that sometime in the future!
I want to thank you for giving me this opportunity to share with you a little bit about my life. My life has been a roller coaster of emotions, but it's definitely been fun and entertaining. If you can't stop and laugh every once in a while then you'll never enjoy what it means to be alive. And that's the important thing, no matter how much stress you have in your life, it can always get better. A big kiss to all my fans.
We'll gladly take that kiss, Alexia! Thank you too for taking the time to speak with us. You can learn more about Alexia at www.alexiaacosta.com.