Trans Stories from Amsterdam to the World: A Film Collaboration with John Rizzo

TransAmsterdam is proud to collaborate with U.S. filmmaker John Rizzo, who was recently in Amsterdam filming a powerful documentary about trans people and our allies in the Netherlands.

This film is part of John’s global project, capturing the voices, experiences, and resilience of trans communities across six continents. In Amsterdam, he interviews trans individuals, artists, community leaders, and policymakers.

With the support of TransAmsterdam, John interviewed several inspiring voices — including our founder and chair Yvo Manuel Vas Dias, Simon Burghoorn from our Trans Art School team, and Solange Dekker , a proud and visible voice in our community.

He also filmed interviews with singer and performer Agnes Geneva , host and advocate Rubi Validor , and community ally Harlem, chair of LGBT World Beside. Among those interviewed was also Touria Meliani, Amsterdam’s deputy mayor and alderman for Diversity, Inclusion, Arts and Culture.

Filming took place at the beautiful Hyatt Regency Amsterdam, who generously supported and sponsored the filming location.

As a token of appreciation, our chair Yvo Manuel Vas Dias presented John with a trans flag pin, thanking him for his powerful work as an ally to the trans community.

We deeply thank everyone who participated, shared their truth, and made this international collaboration possible. Your voices matter. Your stories inspire. ​​

Let’s continue to amplify trans voices — in Amsterdam and around the world.