Since the 1990s, the treatment of transgender people has been a clinical priority at UZ Gent. During that period, multidisciplinary research was conducted simultaneously at various faculties and departments at Ghent University within different subdisciplines, leading to numerous scientific publications and the development of an internationally recognized center of expertise.

The social context surrounding gender diversity has changed dramatically in recent years. Public debate has become more heated and gender identity is increasingly being called into question. In this context, there was a need to valorize the accumulated scientific expertise more strongly in society and make it accessible to a wider audience. This valorization is embedded in a broader impact strategy based on strengthening evidence-based knowledge and using this to refute prejudices against transgender people.  To this end, various initiatives have been taken in close consultation with the target group concerned. 

Based on this commitment, Prof. Dr. Piet Hoebeke took the initiative to publish the book 'Trans… et alors' (Pelckmans, 2026), in collaboration with writer Marijke Libert and portrait photographer Lieve Blancquaert. In this book, twelve people recount their personal journeys in words and images. The project aims to build bridges between medical knowledge, individual experiences, and social debate. This is explicitly not about patient experience, but rather about individuals with a transgender history and how they experience their functioning within society.  

Parallel to the publication of the book, the temporary exhibition BORDERS would be developed within the GUM & Botanical Garden, focusing on the theme of visible and invisible boundaries. In collaboration with the GUM, an integrated exhibition would be realized as part of this exhibition, presenting visual stories that show how individuals deal with social, physical, and administrative boundaries.

The exhibition would be open to the general public for one year. During that period, thematic public evenings would also be organized around gender, identity, medical care, and social perceptions.

In this way, the project aims to have a lasting social impact: promoting informed dialogue, reducing polarization, and strengthening the bridge between academic expertise and society.