In celebration of their sixth successful year, London Trans+ Pride held its launch event this past week, and it was not one to miss. Attendees gathered at the stunning Mandrake Hotel in London for a refreshing brunch on the sweltering July afternoon, geared in no less than the most eye-catching fashions. Even those out of the spotlight and simply present for good vibes came as camera-ready as the red carpet walkers: all dressed in their very best to hear and discuss important topics such as allyship and community.

The launch event kicked off with a red carpet of celebrities and notable guests, namely trans influencer and model Munroe Bergdorf, musician Lewis G. Burton, Ella Morgan and actors Bel Priestley and Alex Thomas-Smith. After a much-needed stop for complimentary juice and snacks, the attendees reassembled on the hotel’s exotic terrace area for the speakers panel. The panel featured Bergdorf, Burton, producer and screenwriter and organiser of the event Sukey Venables-Fisher, and spokespersons from Trans Kids Deserve Better.

While every speaker and audience member listened intently to every heartfelt comment, there was perhaps the most noticeable admiration in the eyes of those watching Venables-Fisher: who, to the community, is a beacon of hope. Not only is she an accomplished disabled trans woman in the film industry, but she is incredibly articulate, and shared many words of encouragement to those listening.

Following the launch event, the London Trans+ Pride march will commence on Saturday, which has summoned big names like Jeremy Corbyn and Jameela Jamil in previous years. The young speakers from Trans Kids Deserve Better’s bittersweet sentiment at the launch event summarised their feelings: ‘We’re going to march in the streets of London and take up space, because we’re not usually allowed to take up space.’

The march event will be held at Langham Place, starting at 2pm. You can find London Trans+ Pride on Instagram.