First Day

First Day is a dynamic television drama targeting young viewers that premiered on ABC ME in 2020. This series is an engaging exploration of the challenges and triumphs experienced by a 12-year-old transgender girl named Hannah Bradford.

First Day is notable for being groundbreaking in its honest and sensitive portrayal of transgender youth, a subject rarely covered in adolescent television, making it an important addition to diverse and inclusive children's programming. The show aims to empower its young audience to be courageous, confident, empathetic, and tolerant by presenting them with relatable stories and a variety of life experiences.

The series revolves around the life of Hannah as she navigates the challenging world of adolescence and begins attending secondary school. What sets her apart from her peers is that she is starting her school year as her true self for the first time ever. Although the show revolves around the life of a transgender character, it confronts universal themes and experiences that every adolescent faces — bullying, acceptance, self-discovery, courage, friendship, school, and familial relationships.

Having experience as a new kid at school is never easy, but for Hannah, it's a tad more complicated as she presents herself as a girl for the first time in a mainstream school. In the hustle and bustle of new friendships, bullies, and well-meaning teachers, she strives to hold on to her identity and integrity. She is tested various times but always keeps her chin up, having firm belief in her identity. But she's not facing these struggles alone; a new best friend and understanding school staff members rally around her, showcasing moments of solidarity and kindness.

While Hannah's journey forms the core of the show's storyline, its episodes expand to touch the lives of other characters as well, creating a vibrant ensemble. Set in the backdrop of school life, various facets of adolescent years are explored, providing a rich and relatable context that resonates beyond the transgender protagonist.

First Day's narrative is impactful, not solely for its authentically portrayed transgender lead character but also due to the way it addresses numerous other societal issues with equally important implications. It touches upon themes such as the importance of acceptance, respect for diversity, genuine friendship, and the power of resilience.

What further stands out about this series is the commitment of the creators to accurately portray the experience of Hannah. The role of Hannah is played by Evie Macdonald, a young transgender actor, making her the first transgender person to portray a lead character in an Australian television show. The show's creators consulted with transgender youth and their families and worked closely with transgender groups, ensuring a respectful and detailed portrayal of transgender experiences.

Though First Day deals with serious themes, it does so with an age-appropriate sensitivity that is not too heavy for its young audience. It creates an inspiring and positive visual representation of a transgender character while subtly providing an education on inclusion and acceptance. The engaging plot keeps viewers entertained, at the same time promoting empathy and sensitivity in understanding the experiences of others who might be different.

Visually, the show presents a colorful and vibrant world, from the school environment to Hannah's home, making it appealing to young viewers. The series consists of four episodes, each telling a compelling story while seamlessly integrating into the overall arc of Hannah's growth and development.

Throughout the series, viewers are privileged to watch Hannah grow stronger and more confident, providing a narrative about the trials and tribulations of adolescence, but also an uplifting tale of acceptance and self-love. Hannah struggles, stumbles, fights, and triumphs - just like any other kid.

In conclusion, First Day is a refreshing contribution to the world of children's television. The show is a thoughtful, sensitive, and inspiring journey of self-discovery and acceptance, worthy of respect for its focus on a young transgender protagonist. It will undoubtedly resonate with audience members of all ages, fostering greater understanding and empathy by inviting viewers into Hannah's world.