A Trailblazing Trans Drag Performer and Activist
Sasha Kekauoha, also known as Sasha Colby, is a prominent American drag performer and beauty pageant competitor, best known for her legendary performances and advocacy for the trans community. In this article, we will explore her journey, accomplishments, and impact on the drag scene.
Early Life and Career
Sasha Colby was born on July 26, 1985, in Waimānalo, Hawaii. She was raised in a conservative Jehovah’s Witness household. Despite her strict upbringing, she discovered her passion for drag and beauty pageants at a young age. In 2012, she won the Miss Continental competition, a prestigious drag pageant held annually in Chicago.
Trans Activism and Representation
Aside from her achievements in the drag scene, she is also famous as a trans model and activist. In 2020, she represented Hawaii in GLAAD’s video, which featured drag queens from all 50 states and Washington, D.C., and aimed to mobilize voters in the 2020 U.S. presidential election. She has been a strong advocate for trans rights and representation, both in the media and in her community.
Sasha Colby on the Stage and Screen
Sasha Colby has made a name for herself not just as a performer, but also as an actress and model. In 2018, she was cast in Sasha Velour’s drag showcase NightGowns, and appeared in the stage show’s 2020 docu-series. She also made headlines when she walked the runway before Jennifer Lopez’s performance at the iHeartRadio Music Awards. She was wearing a look inspired by the singer’s iconic “Jenny from the Block” music video.
RuPaul’s Drag Race and Beyond
In 2023, she was cast on RuPaul’s Drag Race for the franchise’s fifteenth season. As the “drag mother” of Season 14 contestant Kerri Colby, Sasha Colby brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the competition. Moreover, as the first Native Hawaiian to be cast on the show, she is breaking down barriers and inspiring others in the trans and drag communities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sasha Colby is a trailblazer in the world of drag and trans activism, using her platform to advocate for the rights and representation of marginalized communities. From her early days as a beauty pageant competitor to her current role as a Drag Race contestant and trans model, Sasha Colby has proven herself to be a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.