“I always felt accepted”

Melania Cucca, 26, works at a second-hand shop in Barcelona. Spain has been voted the most LGBTQ+ friendly place in the world**

I’ve lived in Barcelona almost all my life and it hasn’t been without its challenges. I used to identify as bisexual, and then as “bollera” – a slang word for lesbian that I prefer.

As a teenager, I felt I had to keep my sexuality secret, and when people found out about me and my first girlfriend, we were mocked.

However, when I grew older, everything got way better. My mum was always OK with it, and I’ve never faced any discrimination. At most, there can sometimes be a prejudice – I’m a feminine person so people would assume that I’m heterosexual or they’ll say,“You don’t really look gay.” But overall, I’ve always felt pretty accepted living here.

We were one of the first countries to legalise gay marriage, and we have many Pride events. I know a lot of queer people, so I go to queer spaces. There’s a really big scene here – it’s very commercial and politically involved. I feel part of a community, and I have a great circle of friends who are all really open and accepting.

I’ve always used dating apps, and they’re really popular here, though I’ve been living with my partner for three-and-a-half years now. Barcelona isn’t perfect, and there’s not a lot of protection for trans youth, but I do think it’s a liberal city. I’ve learnt to surround myself with people

who are really understanding.