The time is right for Mr. Gay World Southern Africa and gay activist Alexander Steyn to take the next step onto the World stage.
The handsome 35-year-old heads to the Mr. Gay World competition in Spain a firm favourite even though South Africa already has two titles.
Xander is a qualified architect who is also an actor, singer, songwriter, dancer, director, choreographer, voice over artist, painter, and teacher.
But it’s his campaign #loveALL that addresses a range of issues such as bullying and homophobia that he is most passionate about.
As a child, Xander was bullied by other kids and he believes in actively teaching kids that anyone who is ‘different’ from what they think is normal is also just a human in need of love.
“I decided to enter the Mr. Gay World Southern Africa Competition because the time was right,” Xander explained to eikon.
“I’ve been an activist for gay rights for many years now and it just felt like this was the time to represent and take a step toward a platform from where I could have more influence and a bigger voice.
“My past has taught me many things, but one that stands out from all the rest is to always be yourself and don’t waste your time and energy on things or people you cannot change.”
Xander entered the Mr. Gay SA competition back in 2011 and was runner-up but decided to give it one more go this year and found it a very stressful process.
“All the contestants had to endure grueling interviews where our communication skills were put to the test and also our ability to articulate our thoughts and answer very difficult but actual questions.
“We also had a few intense photoshoot-challenges and we even had to write a test on our general knowledge about the LGBTIQ+ community, history etc. in Southern Africa and the world.
The chance to visit Madrid and experience a new country has been a great motivator for the resident of Bloemfontein, Free State who also spent 20 months in South Korea.
“I hear Madrid is absolutely beautiful.
“Meeting all the other delegates participating is also top 3 on my list.
“This is such a great opportunity for the world to unite with representatives of each country coming to bring their little piece to the puzzle of getting the gay colours out there in the world and this puts a big smile on my face.
Apart from all of his achievements, the self-declared introvert believes his friendly open demeanor is one attribute that will hopefully set him apart from the rest of the delegates.
“I haven’t met any of my fellow delegates so that’s a hard one to answer, but I’m a friendly-open-book kinda guy. What you see is what you get.
“Hopefully we’ll have loads of time to get to know each other in Madrid and Maspalomas.
“Like they say – you can’t judge a book on its cover. So I truly believe that it’s an open field – anyone can take the crown.
Alexander Steyn is one of 20 delegates heading to the Mr. Gay World finals to be held in Spain from 5-10 May.
For more information visit our special Mr. Gay World page including videos and where to vote for your favourite.
Eikon will be live from Madrid and Maspalomas through the entire Mr. Gay World competition so to stay in touch follow us across our social media here.
Last Updated on Apr 27, 2017
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