These 23 Transgender Models Are Revolutionizing the Fashion Industry

Brazilian-born Valentina Sampaio made history as Victoria's Secret's first-ever transgender model in 2019, telling POPSUGAR at the time, "To me, [gender-neutral modeling] represents a victory for society; not just the trans community, but for all people who are currently underrepresented in fashion. We are experiencing a moment — an evolution, and it is a positive one. Brands are finally learning and catching up to the importance of inclusivity and diversity." Sampaio went on to make headlines in 2020 as "Sports Illustrated"'s first trans model to grace the "SI" Swim Issue.