Trailblazing LGBTIQ+ icon and model Katia passes away

The Maltese LGBTIQ+ community is mourning the death of Katia, a cabaret artist who has been described as a trailblazer for the gay community.

Katia, known to friends as Kaka, passed away suddenly. A transgender who did not fear pushing the boundaries at a time when the concept of gay rights was still alien, Katia has been hailed for her bravery by friends.

In a touching Facebook post, she was described by gay rights activist Gabi Calleja as “one of the people who helped change a nation, simply by having the courage to be herself”.

Katia was a cabaret performer known to push the boundaries

Katia started as a cabaret performer in the 1970s and was known to push the boundaries in live performances. She was beloved and recognised as an icon of the Maltese gay community.

The Malta Gay Rights Movement saluted Katia’s memory, describing her as a “brave trailblazer and an icon to many”.