"With Shona, I wanted to create a character that would resonate with teens and younger transgender people," Black said.
"She made a statement that reminded me when we are kids everything is black and white," Black said. "She was under the impression that if she didn't start hormones by a certain time she'd be an ugly woman or always a man."
With Shona, Black wanted a character that did not match up with the feminine ideal.
"She is proud of who she is," he said. "Shona has only been on hormones six months, she is proud of the body she has, whether she changes it or not."
Black said in addition to Goldstein's input, he also spoke with many transgender people to help ensure the authenticity of the character.
"She was always there making sure we hit the right notes with the character," he said. "I think we've created someone really special and a really strong character."