48. Paris Lees
Trailblazing Voice for Change
Paris Lees is a writer, broadcaster, and campaigner whose life and work exemplify resilience, creativity, and progress. Born in Hucknall, Nottinghamshire, she grew up in a working-class environment and faced challenges that might have silenced a less determined spirit. Instead, Paris transformed her experiences into fuel for change, emerging as one of the most inspiring and influential figures of her generation.
Her journey is as remarkable as it is moving. Coming out as transgender as a teenager, Lees faced adversity but refused to let it define her limits. Education and writing became her weapons of choice, helping her build a platform where she could tell her story and amplify the voices of others. She went on to graduate with a degree in English from Queen Mary University of London, sharpening the skills that would become the foundation of her career in journalism and literature.
Lees’ breakthrough came through fearless contributions to major publications, from The Guardian to Vogue. Her voice was fresh, articulate, and unflinching — tackling issues around gender identity, class, and social justice with both authority and compassion. Soon, she became the first openly transgender woman to appear on Question Time, a historic moment that underlined her role as a changemaker in British public life.
In 2021, she released her debut book, What It Feels Like for a Girl, a memoir that blends truth with artful storytelling. It was lauded for its originality and emotional power, hailed as a vital piece of modern literature. Beyond writing, Lees has also been a prominent figure on radio and At heart, Paris Lees is more than a media figure — she is a symbol of possibility. She has shown that the barriers of background, identity, or prejudice can be challenged and broken. Her courage to live authentically, and to succeed on her own terms, makes her not just a voice for today, but a beacon for tomorrow.
