Now I’ve heard this phrase used a lot in conversations about various media. But for the first time, I’ve felt just how meaningful it can be. Up until recently I had identified as a cis straight white man, so there wasn’t an issue of representation. But after having recently come out as a transgender lesbian, seeing myself in media has of course been something I’ve lacked.

This is why the character Tania Bell in the Stranded audio series is so important. I just started the first set, but I see myself and my experience in Tania. It’s a really unique and satisfying experience to have yourself reflected in a character, and I’ve come to realize why it’s so important for characters like these to exist. Tania has become important to me, because I relate to her on a deep level. I’m very thankful to Big Finish and especially Rebecca Root for crafting such a well done character.

As I’m beginning to learn more what the experience of LGBTQ people is like, I’ve come to release the importance of characters like Tania. Representation matters.