Valentino "Valery" Wichman is an LGBT rights activist from the Cook Islands. She is the president of the Te Tiare Association, the oldest association for LGBT rights in the Cook Islands, and has been involved with the group since its inception in 2008.
Early life and education
Wichman grew up in Rarotonga. She began attending the University of Auckland in 2007.
Career
In 2016 Wichman was admitted to the High Court in New Zealand as a barrister and solicitor.
Wichman works as a solicitor and barrister for the Cook Islands' government, and has worked in the role of Director of Central Policy and Planning.
Activism
Through the Te Tiare Association, Wichman has worked since 2019 to petition the government to repeal the country's laws which criminalize homosexuality.
Honors and recognition
Wichman was chosen for the University of Auckland's 2021 40 Under 40 list.
Personal life
Wichman is a trans woman.
References
Living people
Year of birth missing (living people) Cook Island activists Cook Island lawyers Cook Island women in politics LGBT in the Cook Islands LGBT rights activists New Zealand transgender people New Zealand LGBT lawyers People from Rarotonga Transgender women University of Auckland alumni 21st-century New Zealand LGBT people