“I'm trying to be one of the voices to keep Northern Ireland on the map and having that voice from a rural background is important because it gives people coming from that opportunity to realise that they can be themselves regardless if they're gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans or whatever they identify as.”

Being the visible representation that many queer folk need, especially those in rural communities, is exactly why Lauren Dempsey (she/her), this week’s guest on ‘Pause. And Rewind…’ has just been shortlist for this year’s British LGBTQ+ Award. I met Lauren last year at the Trans in the City Awards where I saw her recognised for her activism work in Northern Ireland so it’s wonderful to see the continual celebration of how she is showing up for her community.

Lauren also works in the corporate sector and we explore the balancing of both worlds including the importance of bringing in your authenticity & personality into the workplace. She shares a fantastic anecdote about a colleague’s reaction to her pole dancing hobby - something she’s super passionate about! It’s another area of her life in which, today, she’s proud & visible as a trans woman.

Born with a cleft palette, people assumed that Little Lauren would encounter a lot of challenges. “This child will be successful,”a doctor said to Lauren’s mother in the hospital. And whilst Lauren shares how acceptance around her transness is an ongoing issue within her family, Lauren lovingly talks about how her mum is a source of constant support. Family dynamics, boundaries & generation trauma are all topics we bounce between during our chat as well as her difficult coming out story - which was influenced by both going through therapy & the pandemic which gave her ‘a chance to breathe’. And resulted in her striking blue hair!

Lauren shares her pride in getting her degree against the odds and states “I’m the version of my own success.” She loves seeing others thrive and emphasises the need for good support networks around you. The conversation also goes into Lauren’s travel adventures, the legacy of Nadia Almada from Big Brother & Lauren’s love of the American Pie movie.

Let's wish Lauren ALL THE LUCK for the British LGBTQ+ Awards. What a guest to mark St. Patrick’s Day - ENJOY!

PLEASE NOTE | This conversation covers sensitive topics including mental health, suicide, coming out & more. Take care of yourself whilst listening.