Katie Neeves

I came out publicly as being transgender in 2018 after living for 48 years as a man, risking my livelihood and reputation as a top UK photographer in the process. I formed Cool2BTrans to support and inspire other trans people and to change hearts and minds across the World, by showing that trans people are just ordinary people who want to be happy - just like everyone else.

I am a presenter and event host and I help organisations globally with diversity and inclusion by providing trans awareness training and inspirational speaking in an entertaining way, using humour to break down barriers. I appear regularly in the media, being on both ITV's and the BBC's lists of experts as well as being a presenter for a BBC Sounds series. My cheeky sense of humour has become a hallmark of my public and media appearances.

Here are some kind words that have been said about me...

- “engaging, hilarious and exciting” (Virgin Media O2)

- "She's one of the most articulate and entertaining people I have seen" (Rhondda Pride)

- ”inspirational storytelling at its best!" (Virgin Media O2)- "the most exciting training in years" (Deutsche Telekom)

- "her humour had the room in stitches" (Queer Student Awards)I was honoured to be given the following awards...

- British Diversity Awards Hero of the Year 2023- Listed on the Global Diversity List 2023 as a Diversity Champion

- National Diversity Awards 2024 Positive Role Model for LGBT Award Finalist- Trans in the City Trans Community Champion 2022

- This is Us Training & Development Award 2023

- The Women's Awards East Midlands Outstanding Female LGBTQIA+ Champion 2023

- Fellowship of the Royal Society for Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (awarded in 2021)- DIVA Awards Unsung Hero of the Year 2023 finalist

- Listed on the DIVA Power List 2023

- LinkedIn Top VoiceI am more than just a gobby trans woman though…

I have been a professional photographer for over 35 years and I've photographed everything from wars and riots to royalty and celebs. I enjoy salsa dancing and I play the guitar and banjo. I also have a pilot's licence having flown light aircraft for 20 years. It's currently lapsed, but I used to fly aerobatics in an open-cockpit bi-plane. I'm also a mum who is proud to be called "Dad".