Jake and Hannah Graf Launch Moving "Trans Is Human" Photography Exhibition at Outernet London Soundtracked by YUNGBLUD

A new photography exhibition titled “Trans Is Human” is set to take over the floor-to-ceiling screens of Outernet London on Monday, November 17, spotlighting the real stories and resilience of transgender people across the UK. The project has been created and produced by actor and filmmaker Jake Graf, alongside award-winning campaigner Hannah Graf MBE, in collaboration with The Independent and soundtracked by YUNGBLUD’s emotionally charged single “Hello, Heaven, Hello” from his chart-topping album “Idols”.

Presented as a free public exhibition, “Trans Is Human” uses Outernet’s state-of-the-art immersive screens—situated beside Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road station—to showcase striking black-and-white portraits captured by internationally renowned photographer Mariano Vivanco. The 13 featured individuals share their own personal experiences, offering an authentic and deeply human look into the transgender community through stories of courage, adversity, and hope.

Black and white image of Amanda crouched confidently, wearing a floral dress. Text next to them mentions advocacy for refugees; it's part of a "trans is human" campaign. — Amanda (Photo Credit: Mariano Vivanco)

Austin with short hair and a nose ring, wearing a black t-shirt, looking confidently at the camera. Text to the left narrates their journey to finding passion and community. The phrase "trans is human" is at the bottom. The tone is empowering and reflective. — Amanda (Photo Credit: Mariano Vivanco)

Among the participants are Sarah, who overcame sight loss to advocate for LGBTQ+ people with disabilities while running marathons; Amanda, a refugee who became the first Miss Trans Global Uganda; and Leo, a speaker and life coach with Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy who inspires others to embrace self-acceptance.

At its heart, “Trans Is Human” is about reclaiming the narrative. Both Jake and Hannah Graf have long been leading voices for visibility and understanding. Jake, who was born in 1980s London and grew up during the height of Section 28, and Hannah, who came out as transgender while serving in the British Army in 2013, bring their own lived experiences to the project.

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Hannah went on to become one of the highest-ranking transgender officers in the military and was later awarded an MBE for her advocacy, while Jake found purpose in film, telling stories that challenge stereotypes and amplify marginalised voices. Together, they have become one of the UK’s most visible transgender couples and are now proud parents to two daughters.

Discussing the motivation behind the exhibition, the couple shared: “The idea for ‘Trans Is Human’ came about following years and years of misinformation and the demonisation of the UK’s trans community that left us almost entirely dehumanised. Working with Mariano to allow these very human people to soar was an absolute pleasure and thrill. Now, at such a pivotal moment for the UK trans community, as we face the possible loss of many of our most basic human rights, ‘Trans is Human’ is more vital than ever. We are supremely grateful to the Outernet team and YUNGBLUD for elevating the campaign and helping to remind the world that trans people are human too.’

For YUNGBLUD, whose music often champions individuality and inclusion, contributing his song to the project felt like a natural fit. “I’m honoured that ‘Hello Heaven, Hello’ will be a part of this exhibition,” he said. “‘Trans Is Human’ is all about celebrating truth, identity and the beauty of being yourself, unapologetically. That’s something I’ve always tried to celebrate in everything I do. I’m buzzing to play even a small part in telling these powerful stories.”

Hansen in a white tank top and jeans smiles confidently against a grey background. Text next to him describes his resilience and dedication to fitness. "Trans is human" is highlighted below. — Hansen (Photo Credit: Mariano Vivanco)

Black and white portrait of Miri smiling with glasses and tattoos. Text beside them highlights their journey overcoming challenges. Keywords: portrait, positive, inspirational. — Hansen (Photo Credit: Mariano Vivanco)

Outernet’s Creative Director for Culture and Lifestyle, Scott Neal, also emphasised the importance of visibility and understanding at a time when discrimination remains widespread. “The work being done around trans and broader LGBTQ+ equality is far from over,” he said. “A recent YouGov poll showed 84% of trans people in Britain feel unsafe in public spaces. ‘Trans Is Human’ showcases the humanity behind individual trans stories to highlight that gender identity is just a part of a person’s story. At Outernet, equality, fairness, and safety are values we live by every single day. We thank Hannah and Jake for creating this piece, and we’re proud to display it for everyone.”