Katya Saunders (10 April 1957 - 27 January, 2019) was a Maltese LGBTIQ+ icon who was one of the first openly transgender women and gay activists in Malta. [1] She was also a well-known cabaret performer in clubs in Malta and London throughout the 1970s. [2]
Saunders spent a portion of her life living in London and New York, where she became a known figure in fashion circles [3] and is described as being the muse behind some of fashion designers Charles & Ron's collections. [4] [5]
Saunders is credited as being responsible for starting an LGBTIQ+ community in Malta [6] and was closely associated with the City of London Bar in St.Julian's, where her photos are still displayed prominently. [7]
Her death was marked by tributes from members of the LGBTIQ+ community, who described her as a mentor and an inspirational figure for past and current gay activists. [8] Her funeral was held at the Balluta Church, in Sliema, followed by a wake at the City of London Bar. [9]
Saunders’ life is detailed in a biography titled Katya: Easy on the Tonic, written by journalist Ramona Depares and published by MGRM in 2022. [10] The publication was accompanied by an exhibition at Spazju Kreattiv in Valletta, showcasing her clothes and memorabilia, curated by Charlie Cauchi and Romeo Roxman Gatt. [11]