Gala ball in São Paulo brings together the cream of the trans community

The second edition of TransBaile, an award ceremony aimed at the trans community, took place this Tuesday (4) in São Paulo. The gala event brought together activists, artists and intellectuals on Boulevard JK, in the south of São Paulo.

Relevant figures such as activist Neon Cunha, chosen by the jury as winner of the Pioneering category, and Afro-indigenous chef Benício Paiva, who won the Excellence category award, were honored.

The award highlighted the advancement of trans people despite violence and marginalization. “The transformation is slow and gradual, but constant”, said playwright Renata Carvalho after receiving the award in the Artist category.

There was also recognition of the role of cisgender people in the fight against transphobia. In the Allies category, the NGO Mães pela Diversidade, founded by family members of trans children and adolescents, was awarded.

The approximately 300 guests enjoyed the red carpet, the entertainment and the artistic performances. The highlights of the night were the show by the duo Irmãs de Pau and the performance by Casa de Candaces, demonstrating how the ballroom scene is a true hotbed of black and trans talent.

Creators of the event, Bielo Pereira and Giovanna Heliodoro highlighted the importance of visibility for one of the most marginalized parts of the LGBTQIA+ community. “Not everything is about you, gays. Nothing against it, I even have friends who are”, joked Giovanna, drawing laughter from the audience.

Created in 2023, TransBaile has already consolidated its space on the Pride month agenda. This year’s edition managed to be bigger and more diverse than last year’s, and those who went were left wanting more.

See the winners of TransBaile 2024

PIONEERING

Neon Cunha

WELCOME

Casa Nem

INTELLECTUALITY

Bruno Santana

EXCELLENCE

Benício Paiva

ALLIES

Mothers for Diversity

ARTIST

Renata Carvalho

INFLUENCE

Vanessa Wolf