“A Fantastic Woman” star from Chile will become the first openly trans actress to present an award at the 90th Academy Awards. It will be held on March 4 in Los Angeles.

The Academy last night released its list of the first 12 presenters for next month’s Oscar ceremony, other presenters announced include Laura Dern, Viola Davis, Chadwick Boseman and Mahershala Ali.

The producers of the Academy Awards telecast spoke to IndieWire about the presenters:

“Whether returning to the Oscars stage or gracing it for the first time, each of these artists brings their own distinguishing and energetic appeal,” Michael De Luca and Jennifer Todd said in a statement.

“Their contributions will make for an unforgettable evening.”

The show will be presented once again by Jimmy Fallon.

Vega earned acclaim for her performance in Sebastián Lelio’s film, she ultimately wasn’t nominated; “A Fantastic Woman” itself is up for Best Foreign Language Film.

Vega makes it clear that, along with its emotional charge, A Fantastic Woman also has a strong political agenda with regard to trans identity.

“The film wants you to question where you stand in society. Are you with Orlando’s family or with Marina? Instead of answering questions, the film’s trying to ask questions about everything. What bodies can or can’t we inhabit? Which love stories are valid and which aren’t? Why is it that certain groups oppress other groups because they’re not within what they consider normal boundaries?”

The breakout star was cast when Lelio and co-writer Gonzalo Maza were working on the script and realised that they didn’t know any trans people in Chile.They needed a consultant and someone suggested Vega. There was no suggestion that Vega would star as the main character Marina. She had just read an early draft of the script when she called Lelio.

He said, ‘OK, it’s about time I told you – I want you to be the lead.’ I said, ‘You’re crazy.’ He said, ‘No, I’m completely certain.’ And I said, ‘OK, I accept.’” More precisely, Vega went away and partied for three days, then said yes.