Meghna Lama has walked the runway for dozens of fashion shows—but never as an opener. That changed this week. Lama, who was crowned Miss Pink 2010, along with three other models from the LGBTIQ community, opened ‘Style Invasion’ show by stylist Sonya Gurung.

“I am feeling so proud right now,” Lama said as she got her hair curled in the jam-packed dressing room at Club Deja Vu, the venue for the night.

While it was clear the show wasn’t the type of premium fashion event that would see Kathmandu’s socialites scrambling for front-row seats, it meant a lot to Lama and her friends, who were for the first time being offered the spotlight, one they have been denied due to their gender and sexual identities.

“We hope those in the industry who have discriminated against individuals from the queer community see this and realise that even we are as capable as any cis-gendered person,” said Lama.

Four of the five models, who walked in the opening sequence celebrating queer identities, belonged to the LGBTIQ community.

Gaurav Chaubey, the only straight model in the group, said he wanted to be a part of the sequence to show his solidarity.

“There were people who warned me, ‘don’t walk or else, others will think even you are gay,’” said Chaubey. “But I didn’t care.”

As the lights dimmed, the music played, and Lama and her friends struck their poses, ready to open the show. Organiser Sonya Gurung took to the microphone and delivered a message.

“We are what we are, please accept us as we are. That’s the message we want to convey to you from the LGBTIQ community.”

PHOTOS BY: ANISH REGMI & TSERING D GURUNG