Saskhia Menendez - on navigating motherhood and the music industry as a trans mama
- We Are MamasinMusic
- Jun 30
- 2 min read
Menendez is a multi-racial transgender woman and a powerful voice in the global music industry. With over a decade of experience, she is a passionate advocate, music manager, researcher, and public speaker. As the host of the Music Industry Insights Worldwide podcast and founder of the Trans Charter for the Music Industry, Saskhia is leading a transformative movement toward inclusion, equity, and representation for trans and non-binary individuals across all levels of the music business.
Q&A
What challenges do you face as a parent in music, and especially as an LGBTQ+ parent?
"As a multi-racial trans woman and proud parent navigating the music industry, one of the biggest challenges has been constantly having to prove my worth not just as an artist, but as a parent and human being. The industry often has a narrow lens on who it sees as “valid.” Being openly trans and a parent means I’m often underestimated or overlooked. I’ve had to carve out my own space while balancing parenting, advocacy, and survival in an industry that hasn’t always recognised people like me. But parenthood has given me strength. My lived experience fuels my work with purpose, empathy, and fire."
If you could send out a message that everyone in the industry could hear, what would it be?
"Trans parents exist. Queer families exist. We are artists, leaders, nurturers, and change-makers. Don’t just include us celebrate us. Real inclusion means listening, uplifting, and restructuring systems that have left us out. The future of music is intersectional and everyone benefits when we all have the freedom to thrive."
What piece of advice would you give to other LGBTQ+ parents?
"Protect your peace and remember: your identity and your artistry are not up for compromise. There’s power in being visible, but there’s also power in rest and boundaries. Be proud, be fierce, and never let anyone tell you that your journey as a parent or artist isn’t valid. You’re building legacy simply by existing and expressing."
How has parenthood shaped your music or creative process?
"Parenthood has deepened everything. It’s made me more intentional, more honest, and more fearless in my creativity. My work now carries a legacy rooted in hope, strength, and visibility. I create not only to express myself, but to open doors for others who don’t always see themselves represented. Parenthood made me a protector of truth, a nurturer of change, and a louder voice for the unheard."
What piece of your own work (a song, project, or initiative) would you love to highlight?
"I’d love to highlight The Global Trans Charter a pioneering initiative I created to offer clear guidance, support, and visibility for trans individuals across the global music and entertainment industries. It’s more than a statement, it's a call to action. The Charter addresses inclusive touring, safer spaces, equity in hiring, and educational frameworks. It’s already gaining international attention and will soon be published as a book, alongside the release of my new music. It’s about building a world where we can all show up fully as artists, parents, and people."
Comments