Toolong volunteer firefighter Leigh Dwyer has become the face of this year's CFA celebration of International Transgender Day of Visibility.
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Celebrated across the world on March 31, the day is about raising awareness about the discrimination trans and gender diverse people still face while also recognising the courage it takes to live openly and authentically.
One of four pride ambassadors for the CFA, she said the CFA was getting right behind the LGBTQI community.
Ms Dwyer, who has been an active member of the CFA for 15 years and helped fight some of last summer's unprecedented bushfires, said the CFA was working on the development of a gender affirmation guide for firefighters.
"So when a transperson comes out in a brigade, captains, catchment teams and members know what to do and how make things easier," she said.
"Being a part of CFA is a major part of who I am, as is my being transgender.
"It's a celebration of us for who we are - people just like everyone else - and to celebrate the most beautiful people who have stood and supported us.
"It means to be recognised for the hardships, the discrimination we face each and every day as we try to lead a happy life. To put behind the years of depression, the living in the closet, the loneliness, the fear.
"To be proud of who I am, to disprove all the myths that surround trans people."
Ms Dwyer said she wanted to be an example to those who were struggling with their identity.
"To say that you are not alone, that you can be you and be a valuable contributor to the community and be accepted for who you are," she said.
"I am proud to be alive and to be me."
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