Today we’d like to introduce you to Franky Jr.
Hi Franky, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Growing up as a 1st generation Filipino-American in a foreign country was an interesting start to my life. I was raised in Japan for nine years due to my dad being in the Navy, and spent 15 years in Las Vegas then found my way here in Central Florida nearly four years ago. I came out as Trans Masculine in my Senior Year of High School, back in 2011.
The hype back then was all about Tumblr, so that’s where I came across information about the LGBTQ+ community. For months before I came out, I was gathering all the information I can and talked to as many people as I can reached out to before I decided to fully commit to coming out.
There wasn’t a lot of information through mainstream media, not a lot of real-life examples/people to look up to in terms of the Trans Masculine identity.
While I was starting to come out to myself personally, I also wanted to grow and be able to mentor other people so they didn’t have to end up in my situation where I had no one to turn to or talk to about anything related to being trans/in the LGBTQ+ community.
I use social media as a tool to connect and network with like-minded people, educate, bring awareness, and make friends with. I also use it as a form of activism when it comes to specific subjects and try to amplify other people’s voices to be heard. Also, use it as a way to fully geek out over things I’m into like anime, Kpop, traveling and etc.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t really been a smooth road, due again to the lack of information, awareness and just overall ignorance. Over time I learned how to cater content to my audience and see what works best for me as a person to keep things transparent and genuine. Some of the struggles I face has to do with “Imposter Syndrome” since I feel like I am not equipped or knowledgeable enough to help educate others and bring awareness to certain subjects and topics. Sometimes it feels like I’m just talking to a wall when there are times that I don’t feel like I get the engagement that I think should happen for certain content. Also, being vulnerable on social media is also pretty scary. Especially when it’s just you, and you feel like you don’t have the support to continue to do things. Overall, struggles come and go, but I’m crossing fingers that it won’t diminished my motivation to continue making content.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My content revolves many different social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram. On these platforms, I strive to promote inclusion by providing my followers the opportunity to ask difficult questions, comment on current events, and/or share their personal stories. My primary line of focus is traditionally in regards to being a First Generation Trans Masculine Filipino-American. However, my conversations online have ranged from in-depth interviews touching on all aspects of life to undergraduate/graduate studies to oral communication projects. I am truly thankful to have a voice among many! My influence has grown so much that I’ve had a chance to collaborate with other creators on their social media platforms to share my personal experiences as well.
Instagram: @Frankytheshorty
Podcast: Frankly Franky available on Spotify – Apple Podcast – Google Podcast and other platforms!
A few of the projects/events/articles I’ve been a part of:
– Asian Pacific Islander Video Collaboration: The Walt Disney Company – 2021
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8cWbggqO8S4&feature=youtu.be
– Featured in: Trans Teen Fights School for Graduation Article (2012)
https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2012/05/transgender-teen-allowed-in-boys-graduate-procession-after-tv-station-steps-in/
– Featured in: Elliote Page Article via Refinery 29
https://www.refinery29.com/amp/en-us/2020/12/10203328/elliot-page-transgender-joy-terf-response?__twitter_impression=true
– Featured in: LGBTQ+ x Disney Article via CNN
https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/disney-lgbtq-fans-pride-trnd/index.html
– Let’s Talk “Gender Fluidity” in Filipino culture Ft Franky (podcast with Chica with Monica)
https://open.spotify.com/episode/5iYU1F1Qthwfl8BhkQxpY6
– Book of The Mouse Podcast #61: Raya and the Last Dragon ft. Franky
https://open.spotify.com/episode/2ELujse5TJqb7uqNslIm2K
– The POPsicle Podcast: Raya and the Last Dragon ft. Franky
https://open.spotify.com/episode/0mfPqctz5vRS7PiriJkYsv
– Featured in Trans Portraits Project: Taylor Attebery
https://www.taylorattebery.com/personalwork#/being/
Volunteer Work
– UNLV GSA Transgender Youth Panel 2016
– Pride March with WDW Pride Berg 2019
– Water Bottle Initiative with FreeMasons 2012 – 2017
– Gender Justice Nevada Volunteer 2011 – 2016
– College of Southern Nevada Queer Panel 2014
– CCSD School Counselor Seminar for Transgender Students 2011
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Truth be told, this was the hardest question to answer! Simply because I am an open book on social media!
Although, that wasn’t always true. During my period of self-discovery, I found myself more comfortable in certain scenarios such as wearing men’s clothing or being around different atmospheres. On top of that, I was, unfortunately, subject to bullying during this phase. To further complicate things, I was faced with the biggest culture shock of my life when I transitioned from Japan to the United States.
From juggling my responsibilities of the oldest of three, leading the way as a first-generation Filipino-American, maintaining above-average grades in school, finding my own path in life, and being a transgender – it proved to be quite challenging. However, with the right mental fortitude, I found the strength and power to move forward. I’m so proud of who I am today and the peace I’ve found within. The journey was tough but I am so happy with who I am today and it’s because of that I’m being able to be so open about myself. It’s because of my openness that I’ve been able to find the support I needed, meet and make so many amazing friends, and be an inspiration to so many others. It wasn’t easy at first but I’m happy I took that first step.
Contact Info:
- Email: frankytheshorty@gmail.com
- Website: https://msha.ke/frankytheshorty/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frankytheshorty/
- Facebook: https://theampliverse.com/frankly-franky
Image Credits
@thedisneyhypebeast
