Katya Saunders

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]