In life, we often face moments that define us — moments of deep struggle, unexpected triumph, and transformation.
Ada Arencibia's story is one of such moments. In this heartfelt episode of Out of the Closet, Into the World, Ada takes us on a profound journey of self-discovery, resilience, and ultimately, freedom. Her story is an inspiring testament to the power of embracing one's true self, no matter how long the road may seem.
A Love-Filled Childhood in Cuba.
"I was born in Cuba — surrounded by love, family, and the simple joys of life," Ada reflects as she begins her story. Her childhood was filled with laughter, warmth, and the strong bonds of family — a stark contrast to the challenges she would later face. In 1998, her life took an extraordinary turn when she and her family left their home and migrated to the United States.
The transition wasn’t easy. Arriving in a new country, Ada spoke no English and had no idea what to expect. “School felt like a battleground,” she recalls. Ada didn’t fit in; she was different, more feminine than the other boys, and that made her a target. “I was teased, bullied, even attacked,” she says. But in that pain, Ada found strength. She fought back, and for the first time, she claimed her power. “That was the first lesson I learned: strength comes from standing up, even when the odds feel overwhelming.”
Coming to Terms with Her True Self.
The journey of understanding who you are is never linear. For Ada, coming out as gay was the first step — but it was far from the end of her path. “Coming out as a transgender woman was a whole other level,” Ada shares. In her Cuban family, being gay was already taboo, and the idea of being transgender was unthinkable. Ada’s mother struggled to understand, and in her desperation, she took Ada to therapy.
The therapist’s words were a turning point: “Your child is just who they are. There’s nothing wrong with him.” For Ada, that moment was both terrifying and freeing. Slowly, her mother began to accept her for who she truly was. One of the most powerful memories Ada shares is of her mother buying her first set of bras and panties. “It was a small moment, but it was life-changing,” Ada says. “It said, You are seen, you are loved, you are okay.”
But the road wasn’t without its hurdles. Ada experienced relationships built on secrecy, as her partners weren’t yet ready to embrace their own truths. “I learned painful lessons about love, trust, and authenticity,” Ada reflects. She rushed her transition in 2006, and the consequences — like painful silicone injections that left lasting physical reminders — were a harsh lesson in the importance of patience and self-acceptance. "Healing takes time," she says. "Rushing change doesn’t heal everything."
A Journey of Healing and Self-Discovery
Life often presents us with turning points, moments that challenge us to make difficult choices. For Ada, that moment came in 2022 when she made the life-changing decision to return to Jacksonville, Florida, to care for her ailing mother. “That choice gave me clarity, connection, and purpose,” Ada says.
In caring for her mother, Ada discovered a deeper meaning of healing — not just physical, but emotional and spiritual. “Sometimes healing doesn’t come from chasing perfection,” she reflects. “It comes from showing up, learning, loving, and simply being present.” Ada’s decision to return home wasn’t just about caring for her mother; it was about rediscovering herself, her roots, and the power of presence.
Embracing the Power of Patience and Love
Ada's journey is a testament to the power of patience. "Your path is yours," she says, "and it's okay to take it at your own pace. There’s no deadline to living authentically." Her story encourages us all to embrace the process of growth, of self-discovery, and of transition — whether that be gender identity, personal goals, or emotional healing.
Ada’s journey is proof that transformation is possible, even when the road is long and full of struggles. "Sometimes the greatest act of strength is simply showing up for yourself," she says. "Healing is not about perfection. It’s about growth, love, and embracing who you are at every stage of the journey."
You Are Enough
As Ada closes her story, she offers a powerful message of hope to those who are still on their own journey of self-discovery. “To anyone out there feeling unseen, unheard, or not enough: you are enough,” Ada says. “Your story matters. Your identity is valid, and the world needs your light.”
Her message is clear: Don’t rush your journey. You are worthy of love, joy, and belonging — just as you are. Ada’s story is proof that transformation, healing, and self-discovery are possible at any stage of life. "It’s about showing up for yourself, embracing every part of your journey, and trusting that you are capable of great things."
This story first ran in Out of the Closet, Into the World Podcast, hosted by Ada Arencibia, a passionate transgender activist and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
