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Cosmo UK make Brighton graduate their first ever trans cover star

University of Brighton alumna and celebrated trans activist Munroe Bergdorf is the pioneering cover star of Cosmo UK's current 50th anniversary issue.

2 February 2022

Munroe has maintained close contacts with the University of Brighton, where she did English Language and Media BA(Hons) (graduating in 2008), before receiving an Honorary Doctorate in 2019 in recognition of her pivotal contributions as a campaigner for transgender rights. Cosmo UK also declared Munroe their Changemaker of the Year in 2018.

Munroe's first book Transitional will be published in September by Bloomsbury following an 11-way bidding war for the rights. The book will draw on Munroe's own experience, as well as research from experts and activists, to argue that transitioning is a key part of broader human experience. Transitional will delve into areas including adolescence, sexuality, gender, relationships, identity and race.

Speaking about the book, Munroe said: “This is a tough time for trans people living in the UK and around the world, so it means so much to be working on my first book with the largest independent publishing house in the country. By sharing my lived experience as a black trans woman, I hope that this book will serve to open more minds, start important conversations and help to educate all kinds of people in a way that brings us closer to a global consciousness—especially during this time of division."

Munroe Bergdorf on the cover of Cosmopolitan magazine, February 2022

Munroe Bergdorf on the cover of Cosmopolitan magazine, February 2022

On her time at Brighton, Munroe spoke of the huge influence played by her tutor Dr Jess Moriarty: “She helped me to develop the skills that I now use every day within my activism, my writing and beyond. She helped me to communicate how I have felt, how I feel and allowed me to connect with how others may be feeling.... If it wasn't for the kindness, understanding and patience that she showed me when I needed it I probably wouldn't be here today.”

Dr Moriarty, Principal Lecturer in Creative Writing in the University of Brighton's School of Humanities and Social Science, said: “Munroe was an extraordinary student who confronted the challenges she faced with creativity and innovation. The way she uses her platform to support and defend vulnerable, marginalised groups is extraordinary. Munroe is utterly inspiring and I can’t wait to read her book – it will be brilliant!”

Munroe has served as a National Advocate for UN Women UK, while her film What Makes a Woman premiered on Channel 4 in 2018. She has spoken at Oxford, Cambridge and Princeton universities, and works as a model and presenter.

Watch Munroe on YouTube, speaking after receiving her Honorary Doctor of Letters award.

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