As Leston and I waited for our guest to arrive and begin our interview session, we had a wonderful chatter about lifestyles and choices people make. It wasn’t long before this vibrant young man came strolling in to meet with us. He walked over with style and grace. This young man is none other than Sohan Badall. For those who do not know Sohan, he is very active in the entertainment business as it pertains to cross-dressing and performances. He is one of the very few who has openly embraced his talent and isn’t ashamed to show the world his creativity. He is also the director of the ‘Miss Global International Trinidad & Tobago for the past four years. In the day; Sohan can be seen as the normal ‘man on the street’, going about his daily routine, working his 9 – 5 and living his life. Those not knowing him personally would never guess he’s the same person who transforms himself into ‘Shelia’, (his stage name) at their favourite events, carnival & chutney fetes, as well as private weddings. He is also busy overseeing his models for pageants and other competitions. We were indeed privileged to get some interview time with him, as he is known for having a very hectic schedule.
Sohan informed Leston and I that he never planned to be a cross-dresser. Actually; he was invited to accompany a Tassa group to an event, which he had no problem with. However; on reaching the event, the group handed him a woman’s outfit to dress in. Of course Sohan would have none of it as he told them ‘No Way! I’m not doing that’. However; the group informed him of the price he would be paid, just to wear the outfit for roughly 10mins. Although still nervous, after hearing the price, Sohan was in the dress and ready to perform. It was then and there, that Sohan started his career in the cross-dressing entertainer business. Though many may have mixed feelings pertaining to the idea of dressing like a woman, Sohan has overcome his. Leston and I were also privileged to be the first to learn that Sohan also has a book coming out entitled “Dancing to your own beat”. It tells of his life as an entertainer, his art-form of dancing and an insight to who ‘Sohan the individual’ is. While we continued speaking with him, Sohan had to juggle being interviewed, accepting calls from designers, as well as ensuring his model (Semoy, who is a contestant in the Miss Common Wealth Pageant) get in contact with their sponsors. He also has a couple of newspaper interviews coming up as a few journalists are eager to do a spread on him. Soon to come, he will be launching his own fashion line called ‘Sohan Signature Creations.’ I must say hats off to Sohan, he is happy, his family and friends embraces him and the people that matter respects his craft. For those wanting to assist Sohan and his models, you are free to contact him at 374-5885 (Cell) or Email at sohan.badall@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/sbadall1?fref=ufi
https://www.facebook.com/MissGlobalInternationalTrinidadTobagoPageant?pnref=lhc
The 'Coming Out' Stories 