1. Tell me a little about yourself

I was born in Panama City, Panama . I was raised in the US. I have spent most of my life in Miami, fl with my family. I grew up in church, my father was a leader in the church and held several positions, He was one time the youth pastor, praise and worship leader, a radio show host etc. My mom also was the leader in the church and I used to play drums for him. We traveled a lot together but that soon stopped. My family and I have been through a lot but we are super close because of it.

2. How did you get into bodybuilding?

I got into bodybuilding to help with anxiety and depression. Then later it became about aesthetics. My very first trainer showed me just how strong I was and I have been hooked every since. I was in my early twenties at the time and the only place that my gf would not go with me was the gym, so the gym has always been a place of to escape.

3. What’s your diet plan and workout routine?

It changes really depending on my goal. However no matter the goal,, I always eat around 6-8 times a day and train no less than 5 times a week, I prefer to train twice a day. Cardio in the am and weight later on in the day.

4. How did you hear about the FitCon competitions and why did you decide to compete?

I forgot how exactly but I was stoked .I followed a lot of the guys on YouTube and their journeys helped me not to feel lonely on mine. I found out about it but decided to see how was the first competition first. At the rist of sounding cocky I was like “ I could definitely give these guys a run for their money” and when the time was right for me. I put all of my efforts to competing.

5. How do/did you prepare for the competition emotionally and mentally?

I had a team behind me. I had my coach who kicked my butt in the gym and showed me some techniques he used when training, so I would listen to motivational Speeches ( I still do) while I was working out. I wrote down everyday that I was a champion. I just got really focused and I am lucky that one of BFF is also into competing just like I am. I got a lot of support from my close fam and friends when things get a bit overwhelming.

6. Have you competed in the past in other competitions?

No

7. What do you think about the creation of IATB – The International Association of Bodybuilders?

I think its great bc as a trans-Athlete when need a space to be able to participate in bodybuilding.

8. What are your expectations for IATB? What would you like to see happening?

My expectation is that we grow as community and really start to break barriers

9. How do you relate bodybuilding to your identity?

I think bodybuilding gave me a chance to create the body I always wanted but I don’t think bodybuilding is tied into my identity per se. I don’t see it as an expression of gender but just of who I am . I like to be strong and look good. However, I have always admired bodybuilding women are femme but carry a lot of muscle. Bodybuilding to me

10. How far do you think we’ve come and how far do you think we have to go in the fitness industry for people of Trans experience?

I think we have come a long way but we have a lot more ground to cover. That I for the whole T community. We have to come together and until that happens we are not getting very far. I see a lot of hate due to passing or in terms of masculine expression between our brothers and its sad. I think people should be able to express their gender in whatever way seems fit without judgment.

11. We like to think of the IATB bodybuilders as ambassadors for the trans community because they show a different but important side of Trans visibility. Do you consider yourself an ambassador for the community? If so, how?

I am by default. So I will take it but I am just a regular joe. I try to live my life as best as I can and be a decent human being. I try to give the same respect and compassion that I would want. I just want lifrt , eat good food, love my family, friend and my girl.

12. Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?

I see myself with a few more bodybuilding titles , being a national level NPC competitor or a Physique Pro. A physical therapist , the owner of my own training facility and married to my current gf and continuing to tell my story to people.

13. What are some tips you’d give to someone who wants to compete in IATB competition?

Get a coach , train hard , diet harder, learn to pose correctly and come in with attitude

14. Any last word?

At the end of the day. The ONLY ONE who defines you is you