Drag icon, musician, choreographer, and activist, Laganja Estranja has cemented her place in the LGBTQ+ community as a force to be reckoned with!
A U.S. Presidential Scholar in The Arts, Jackson earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in dance and choreography from the California Institute of the Arts and launched to stardom after being selected to compete on RuPaul’s Drag Race.
Since then, Laganja has performed her original music across the world, spanning sixteen countries and six continents. She had performed on numerous television shows and for artists such as Madonna, Jennifer Lopez, Christina Aguilera, and most recently Kesha at West Hollywood Pride’s Out Loud Music Festival. Significantly, in 2019, New York Magazine named Laganja as one of the “Most Powerful Drag Queens in America”. Laganja has also served as the face of many advertising campaigns including Samsung, Jack Daniels, Paramount Plus, and Sally Hanson – to name a few.
When Laganja became a part of #30Voices30Days, her artist’s heart came through as Gurus Magazine asked her the following questions.
Who is the true you?
The true me is kind, caring, and loyal. I am often seen as a loud, over the top, dramatic character and while all of those things ring true, I am also very soft and introspective. I am an artist who leads with their heart at all times!! I do not wish to be defined by my accolades but rather the lives I touch with my art. I aim to be an inspiration and the epitome of “never quit.” With every fall, I get up stronger each time and build a more solid foundation for the next slip.
What is your passion?
I am passionate about all things art. Whether it’s musical theater, or drag, or contemporary dance, I am drawn to expressions that cannot be limited to words or looks. I am also very passionate about my community and giving back to those who uplift me each and every day.
When do you feel the most authentic?
I feel most authentic when I am at home in my PJs with my best friends watching a tv show and smoking some ganja. I find myself smiling often for the cameras, but when I am in the saftey of my own home with those I love the most, that’s when the true me shines the brightest. And as much as I love the glitz and glam of Hollywood, there’s nothing like being all natural and comfortable in my own skin!
Why is it important for YOUR voice to be heard?
I believe it is important for my voice to be heard because of the lack of trans representation I had growing up. I feel my voice not only speaks to those individuals but also to the outsiders and underdogs and anyone who has been underestimated. I think my voice gives people the strength to get up each morning and be their fabulous self unapologetically, even if it might annoy others.
From collaborating with Miley Cyrus on choreography to speaking at Trinity College in Dublin as an activist, there is no hill to high for Laganja Estranja to climb!
Gurus Magazine presents #30Voices30Days is proudly benefitting GLAAD all month long – please donate here!
