Mina Yang walks a path of transformation with quiet strength and unapologetic grace. With humor and confidence, she lights up the runway and speaks up for the transgender community in real life. Her story is one of body acceptance, gender identity, and love — a journey that belongs to Mina, and to anyone striving to live as their most authentic self.
When did you first realize your sense of gender was different from those around you?
Ever since kindergarten, as soon as I became aware of myself, I knew I was different from the other boys—I felt like I was a girl. Back then, I had no idea that being different could come with such a price: exclusion, bullying, ridicule, and even rejection from my parents.
Did you ever hide your true self to fit in? What was the hardest part?
In elementary and middle school, I started to realize I was a “different kind of boy.” At first, I thought I was gay—not transgender. These are two completely different identities, but I didn’t really understand the difference until college. And honestly, even now, many people still confuse the two.
Back then, I suppressed myself because I didn’t want to embarrass my parents. People saw me as shy or like a bookworm, but really, I was just scared that if I expressed too much of myself, others would find out I was “too feminine.” That period was incredibly difficult. Thankfully, I was good at school, so I kind of became the “brains of the class”—almost like having protection, in a way.
High school, especially being in an all-boys school, was eye-opening. I began to shine and truly feel like myself. I met some openly gay friends who were living authentically, and seeing them made me braver. I started dressing up, became more outgoing and funny, and discovered something new in me: that I could be beautiful and witty. Even when I faced verbal bullying, I learned how to process it internally. I also began encouraging others—especially those who hadn’t yet found the courage to come out.
What challenges have you faced as a model, and what keeps you going?
In the early days, transgender models were not widely accepted in Taiwan. I never passed any auditions, and no agency wanted to sign me. It wasn’t until I met two mentors who believed in my potential and gave me their support that I finally started to gain some recognition in the Taiwanese modeling scene. I’m still working hard and hope that one day Taiwan will embrace transgender models as naturally as other countries do — because we are no different.
Was there a person, phrase, or experience that gave you strength during your journey?
I’m deeply grateful to those who see me as a woman and treat me naturally—it gives me a strong sense of peace. Sometimes, people misunderstand or hurt us with malice, but I remind myself that no one is perfect, and not everyone will like you. Finding your own identity and uniqueness is key to staying true to yourself.
Thanks to the two mentors who believed in me, and to my family who once struggled to accept me but now embrace me as their daughter. It’s been a journey full of twists and tears, like a movie plot. Today, I’m happy and surrounded by loving friends, which gives me the courage to fully be myself.
What details do you look for when choosing swimwear, and how does wearing HÁI make you feel?
I’ve always loved HÁI’s fabrics—they’re soft, skin-friendly, and incredibly comfortable to wear. The fit naturally hugs my body and beautifully highlights my curves, making me feel both elegant and confident. HÁI pieces are truly staples in my wardrobe.
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