Interview of AJ Clementine by Freya Bennett
AJ Clementine has long been a luminous presence in the world of fashion, storytelling, and online advocacy, using her platform not just to be seen, but to see others. As a proud trans and intersex woman, her journey has touched millions, from the catwalks of Melbourne Fashion Week to the pages of her memoir Girl, Transcending. Whether she’s speaking about identity, soft strength, or the transformative power of style, AJ brings an unmistakable tenderness to everything she shares. Now, as she steps into a new chapter—engaged to her partner Jacob and more grounded than ever—we caught up with her to talk love, pride, and the beauty of showing up as your full self.
Hi Aj! How are you feeling about this exciting new chapter?
I’m still floating in this dreamy haze, it feels like such a tender, magical season of life. Jacob and I have always believed in growing together, and now that we’re engaged, it feels like we’ve opened a beautiful new chapter that’s grounded in love and hope for our future. I’m just so blessed to experience this type of love.
In a recent Instagram post, you opened up about how overwhelming it can be to be seen so publicly. How do you care for yourself in those moments, and what helps you stay grounded in your purpose?
Being visible can be such a double-edged sword, there’s so much beauty in sharing your truth, but also a heaviness in carrying so many projections. When it starts to feel too loud, I try to return to softness. That means quiet moments offline, journaling, being in nature, or even just having a warm tea and listening to music that reminds me of who I am outside of the noise. Jacob is a huge grounding presence too (he’s a taurus, he’s pro at that) he sees me, not just “AJ the public figure.” but as Avery, who I am offline. I’ll always come back to my inner child and remind her that she’s safe now.
You’ve described Pride as both a celebration and a reflection. What do you reflect on most during this month, and how does that shape the way you show up in the world?
Pride, to me, is a love letter to every version of myself that dared to keep going. During this month, I reflect deeply on the bravery it took to step into my truth and how that courage is share that. Throughout my transition I’ve discovered new parts of me not just my identity but medically too. I was always confused why I was born the way that I was but having closure and find out I’m trans and intersex later in life brought me so much peace. I think about the trans women of color who paved the way too. That reflection keeps me rooted, it reminds me why I show up with softness and honesty. Because visibility is power, but authenticity is what truly lights the path.
In Girl, Transcending, you share such an honest and powerful journey. What’s something that’s surprised you about the response from readers?
Honestly, it’s the way people have said they see themselves in the story, even those who aren’t trans. That’s been so moving. I think we underestimate how universal the search for identity, love, and belonging really is. Hearing from readers who’ve cried with me, laughed with me, or found a piece of themselves in the pages. it reminds me that sharing your truth, even when it’s scary, opens hearts.
You’ve turned fashion into a form of activism and expression. How has style helped you own your identity, and what do you say to those still finding their voice through clothing or appearance?
Fashion, for me, has always been a soft kind of rebellion; it’s where I claimed my body, my femininity, and my joy. It’s a canvas where I get to say, this is me, without needing to explain anything. For those still finding their voice, I’d say, give yourself permission to explore. Let it be messy, let it be playful, let it be true. There’s no timeline for self-discovery, and your style doesn’t need to be loud to be powerful.
You often speak about the need for positive trans representation. Who are some creators or voices you’re loving right now, and what kind of stories would you love to see more of?
There are so many beautiful souls creating right now. I’ve been loving people like Riley Mindford, Kim Petras, Hunter Schafer and Munroe Bergdorf. Each of them brings such grace and power to their platforms. I’d love to see more stories that center trans joy and love. We deserve narratives that go beyond trauma, that show us thriving, falling in love, being silly, being soft. We’re not just surviving—we’re living, and that’s worth celebrating.
Finally, for young people in the trans community who are struggling to feel seen or safe—what’s something you wish someone had said to you when you needed it most?
I wish someone had looked me in the eyes and said, You are already enough. Not when you “pass,” not when you find the right label, not when you’ve checked all the boxes. Just as you are, right now, you are worthy of love. Hold on to your truth, even if the world hasn’t caught up to it yet. The world will change, and you’ll be part of the reason why.
