Brighton has such a rich queer and underground music scene — how has living and creating there shaped the sound and identity of LADSCLUB? Greg: I think moving to Brighton in my 20’s was perfect timing in some ways as the clubs, the music and the vibe here was second to none. Also everywhere was so mixed so I didn’t feel limited to gay spaces to feel safe and have a fantastic night out. Also, the cover of our debut album sums it up pretty well! Ed: Brighton is such a special little bubble with such a varied music scene , I think that shows in our music as we like to experiment with multiple genres. Your music blends electronic, alt-pop, and emotionally raw storytelling. What artists, experiences, or nightlife spaces have influenced your sound the most? Greg: Madonna has always been my biggest inspiration, I love the simplicity of her lyrics and her melodies – how she just loves to write songs about dancing – even now in her 60’s. As for experiences, 20 years of marriage is the key story we are telling on the new album. The ups and downs! Ed: For me as a producer I idolise a lot of dance / electronic producers , Frankmusik is a huge hero of mine, he’s an absolute master of his craft and would love for LADSCLUB to collab with him in the future As queer artists, do you feel there’s still pressure to “fit” into certain narratives in the music industry, or has the landscape genuinely changed? G: We are a gay married couple making music together in our 40’s so id say we are quite unique – I don’t think the music industry knows what to make of us, but we are quite resilient and very patient. For now we just enjoy what we do and appreciate that some people really love our music and come to our shows. E: It’s not something I really think about that much , I guess so far we’ve been accepted for what we do and we certainly haven’t hid the fact that we’re gay and I never would. A lot of your tracks feel both euphoric and vulnerable at the same time. How important is emotional honesty in your songwriting process? G: I have to say it wasn’t important at all on the debut, but for the follow up “Play Together” I wanted to tell some stories and really open up in my writing. I wanted to push myself and be fearless. I’m really happy with the results. A friend of ours who heard it recently said “no one else is writing songs about these subjects” – and I have to agree. There are some real taboo subjects in there but with killer chorus’s. E: Greg’s songwriting really has gone up a level with this album, I try my best to get the sound that reflects what he’s trying to say and I feel confident that this album really pushes us on some bold ways both lyrically and sound wise LGBTQ+ audiences often connect deeply with music that creates a sense of escape or belonging. What kind of experience do you hope listeners have when they hear your music live? Greg: I hope they are enlightened…and compelled to dance! E: We just want everyone to have a great time :) Social media can build artists quickly, but it can also flatten creativity into trends. How do you balance authenticity with the pressure to stay visible online? Greg: We honestly don’t factor it in at all. We don’t trend chase, we use music that has influenced us a template – and I don’t think any of it is particularly trending right now. I was listening to a lot of Soft Cell when I started writing. That’s where The Playpen came from, I think. E: We’ve never set out to chase any trends I think what we do is very much us, the most important thing is always say to Greg is we need to have fun, I like to think that comes across in our music too What has been the biggest challenge of working as a duo, and what’s the biggest advantage? Greg: The biggest challenge is that we never really have a day off from being LADSCLUB, we kind of live it 24/7 – whilst also trying to hold down day jobs to pay the rent. The biggests advantage is that we both have our own strngths that compliment each other perfectly – I write and Ed produces, we share vocal duties. we don’t step on each others toes. It works. E: It can be overwhelming sometimes for sure as Greg points out we live and breathe LADSCLUB and the whole package is done by us , writing / producing and a full time job on top. The advantages are is we’re in it together so when it comes to live shows and promo we have each other backs and we look after each other :) Queer nightlife and club culture have always influenced pop music. Are there particular spaces, nights, or moments that inspired the world of LADSCLUB? G: My memories of G-A-Y in London Astoria and the Ghetto will always live rent-free in my head and heart. E: Being a Brightonian my early club memories are places like Revenge and my favourite club night was called Monkey which used to be at a club called The Gloucester ( it’s now The North Laine Pub ) very happy memories of that place listening to amazing electro dance music Greg: there’s a song about it on the album called Dancing. If someone discovered LADSCLUB today, which song would you want them to hear first — and why? Greg: Argh that’s a tough one. MATINEE will always hold a special place in my heart. That was the first “proper” song I ever wrote. We never get bored of performing that one. Ed: That is tough as they all feel special, I would go with Be Kind Rewind from the new album , it has an acid warehouse sound to it that could of come out in the late 80s, it’s a sweet song that sounds both sad but uplifting What’s next for LADSCLUB in 2026? Are there new sounds, collaborations, visuals, or themes you’re excited to explore? Greg: The release of our new single “LOVE ON TOP OF LOVE” and the album “Play Together” – it’s been 7 long, hard months of writing and recording and we are such perfectionists. I personally never thought we’d better the debut but we 100% have with this body of work. Its stunning. We hope people hear it and appreciate it. E: The new album is now the focus and hopefully we’ll get to promote it with some more gigs too , Totally open to another collaboration too if that comes up. Also want get another music video too , we already have 2 classic music videos. Think it’s time for another Greg: yes we are doing our first headline show at The Brunswick in Brighton on July 31st so we are busy preparing for that. It’s going to be amazing!

Your music often blends vulnerability with polished pop production—how would you describe your artistic identity right now? My artistic identity is honestly in a state of flux right now - I’m growing a lot in confidence in some ways, but I still experience the same doubts and anxieties that I always have, so my artistic identity is a dichotomy of the confident queer man I’ve grown into that is still plagued by the thoughts of what created “Lostchild” in the first place. Can you tell us the story behind your new single “Never Sleep”? What inspired it emotionally or creatively? “Never Sleep” was written, with the help of my super talented friend and artist Janethan, about the endless nights that I lie awake unable to sleep, listening to my tinnitus and thinking about all my regrets, worrying about the future, doubting myself and whether it’s all worth it. I think the pulse of the bass and the endless looping of the synths represents that never-ending dread that I feel, and I know that in 2026 I’m definitely not alone. The title “Never Sleep” feels intense and evocative—what does it represent for you personally? “Never Sleep” I think represents my inability to ever truly rest. My mind is always going and I dread going to bed because it means there’ll be a long period of tossing and turning that will might last the entire night. How did the songwriting and production process for “Never Sleep” differ from your previous releases? “Never Sleep” was actually written in its first form in 2017 and was never used. Then last year I came across some old demos, of which this was one, and played it my partner, and we agreed that there was potential there. But because it was such a personal song for me, I needed a new pair of ears to help me finish the track, and my friend Janethan stepped in and helped me turn it into the emotionally charged pop epic it is today. As a queer artist in the UK music scene, how has your identity shaped the themes and messages in your work? I think that my queer point of view is one I put front and centre in my music. A lot of the pain I’ve experienced in my life has stemmed from my experience as a gay men, so I would say ever song I write is distinctly from a queer perspective, because it’s the most authentic way I can connect with my listeners. Were there any specific sounds, artists, or cultural influences that helped shape “Never Sleep”? I think Robyn’s mix of sad and euphoric was a big influence here, as well as the deep emotions of one of my favourite albums, “Ray of Light” by Madonna. Your work spans singing, songwriting, and producing—how do you balance these roles when creating a track? In order to effectively channel myself as an artist, I have to treat Lostchild the artist and Lostchild the producer as two different people. Sometimes I’ll email myself thoughts and notes as if I was my own client! What do you hope listeners—especially within the LGBTQ+ community—take away from “Never Sleep”? I just hope that listeners just feel like screaming “1, 2, 3am” at the ceiling of their bedrooms as they lie awake at night! As for queer listeners, I hope it reminds them that they are not alone in the thoughts of low self-worth and self-doubt that they have when they try to go to sleep. I don’t have a solution for why the world is so against us as a community right now but I know that we are many and aren’t going anywhere. How has being based in London influenced your music and creative opportunities? London allows me to gig as a queer male artist which is a massive privilege. There is a small but loyal and welcoming scene for queer artists and performers in London that allows for opportunities and friendships you just can’t get anywhere else as a queer musician. What’s next for you after “Never Sleep”? Can fans expect more releases, collaborations, or live performances soon? I’m currently working on my debut album, a tough but exciting task, and there are several collaborations with other queer artists on it which I’m very excited about, and which you might hear sooner than you think! In the meantime I’m supporting the awesome Ryan Cassata on the UK dates of his tour in Manchester at the Night and Day Café on May 19th and in London at The Camden Club on May 21st. They will be 2 spectacular evenings of queer music!

Is Brighton’s LGBTQ+ nightlife at a crossroads? For generations, Brighton has been synonymous with LGBTQ+ nightlife. From the bars and clubs of Kemptown to packed Pride weekends, the city has built a reputation as one of the UK’s great LGBTQ+ destinations. For many people, a night out in Brighton has been about far more than drinking. It has been about community, meeting people, finding somewhere to belong and being surrounded by people who understand you. But is that traditional model of LGBTQ+ nightlife beginning to change? The news that R-Bar is due to close on 20 September 2026, while Charles Street Tap is also set to close when its lease ends in September, has once again raised questions about the future of Brighton’s LGBTQ+ scene. R-Bar is part of the Revenge family, while Charles Street Tap has been a fixture of Brighton’s LGBTQ+ community for around 25 years. These aren't simply two more bars disappearing from the city. Their closures have prompted a bigger conversation: is Brighton’s LGBTQ+ nightlife changing because people are changing the way they socialise? A scene built around the bar For decades, the LGBTQ+ bar has played an important role in queer life. Before dating apps, social media and online communities, bars and clubs were among the easiest places for LGBTQ+ people to meet one another. They could be places to make friends, find relationships, dance, flirt, celebrate birthdays, discover drag and simply spend an evening without having to explain yourself. Charles Street Tap arguably represented one of the more flexible versions of that model. The venue has described itself as being at the heart of Brighton's Gay Village, combining food, drinks, cabaret, DJs, quizzes and other entertainment. Its long opening hours and broad programme meant it could be a lunchtime pub, an after-work meeting place, a cabaret venue and a late-night destination. That versatility may be increasingly important in a nightlife economy where simply being a bar is no longer enough. Are our habits changing? Perhaps the biggest question is whether people are going out less — or simply going out differently. There are plenty of possible explanations. The cost of a night out has risen. A few drinks, transport, entry fees and food can quickly turn into an expensive evening. For younger people in particular, the traditional idea of spending hours moving from bar to bar may not have the same appeal it once did. Then there are dating apps and social media. Someone looking for a date, a friendship or a sexual connection no longer necessarily needs to go to a bar to find someone. Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, dating apps and online LGBTQ+ communities have changed the way people meet and communicate. That doesn't mean people have stopped wanting physical spaces. In fact, it could mean the opposite. Perhaps what people increasingly want from an LGBTQ+ venue isn't simply somewhere to drink, but somewhere that offers an experience they cannot get from their phone. Drag. Comedy. Live music. Cabaret. Community events. Food. Conversation. Clubs. Queer culture. The challenge for Brighton's venues may therefore be less about convincing people to go out and more about giving them a reason to choose one particular venue over the thousands of other things competing for their attention. Has Pride changed Brighton? There is another unavoidable part of this conversation: Brighton Pride. Pride remains one of the biggest things in Brighton's calendar. In 2026, the city celebrated the 35th year of Brighton Pride in its modern form, while Trans Pride has also become a major part of the city's LGBTQ+ calendar. During Pride, Brighton can feel almost impossibly queer. The streets fill with colour. Hotels sell out. Bars are packed. Clubs run special events. Thousands of visitors arrive from across the UK and beyond. Charles Street Tap itself has historically embraced Pride with DJs, drag and special events, and its 2026 programme included multiple Pride nights. But Pride also raises an interesting question. Has Brighton become so good at doing LGBTQ+ nightlife for one huge weekend that the rest of the year has become harder? Pride can bring enormous crowds, but those crowds don't necessarily represent the everyday nightlife audience. A visitor arriving for Pride might spend a weekend partying, while a local resident may be deciding whether they can afford a £50 or £100 night out every few weeks. There is also the changing relationship between Pride and nightlife itself. Pride is no longer just a series of parties in bars. It is a huge cultural event involving politics, activism, businesses, tourism, entertainment and community organisations. That is undoubtedly positive in many ways. But it means the traditional LGBTQ+ bar is no longer the only place where queer community happens. The loss of the 'middle ground' Perhaps one of the biggest concerns raised by the closure of venues such as Charles Street Tap is the loss of the middle ground. Not everyone wants to go clubbing. Not everyone wants a drag show. Not everyone wants to spend Saturday night dancing until 4am. And not everyone wants to sit at home. A bar where people can meet for a drink, have a conversation, watch some entertainment and decide later whether to continue their night somewhere else has a particular role in a city's LGBTQ+ ecosystem. That is one reason the closure of established venues can feel significant even when other LGBTQ+ businesses remain. The reaction from Brighton residents online has highlighted exactly this concern. One recent discussion about the closure of Charles Street Tap described the venue as somewhere between a traditional pub and a club — a place where people could meet, talk and feel comfortable without necessarily being part of a particular subsection of the scene. That is only one person's experience, of course. But it raises an important point. What happens if Brighton has plenty of places to party, but fewer places simply to belong? The scene isn't disappearing It would be wrong to suggest that Brighton's LGBTQ+ nightlife is simply dying. It isn't. The city still has established venues including Revenge, The Queens Arms Brighton, Affinity Bar and others, alongside a wider ecosystem of queer events, performers, promoters and community organisations. And there is clearly still an appetite for LGBTQ+ nightlife. Revenge continues to operate as a major late-night LGBTQ+ venue, while Brighton's broader nightlife scene continues to attract visitors throughout the year. The issue is therefore not necessarily whether there will be an LGBTQ+ scene in Brighton. It is what that scene will look like. The next generation may want something different Perhaps Brighton's LGBTQ+ nightlife needs to stop trying to recreate what worked 20 or 30 years ago. Younger LGBTQ+ people have grown up in a completely different world. They may be more comfortable meeting people online. They may drink less. They may have less disposable income. They may be more interested in experiences than simply drinking alcohol. And LGBTQ+ identity itself has become broader and more diverse. The traditional "gay village" model — a concentrated collection of gay bars aimed primarily at a gay male audience — may no longer represent the whole community. There is an opportunity here. Imagine more queer cafés, LGBTQ+ cultural spaces, comedy nights, book clubs, live performances, sober events, community gatherings, daytime events, creative spaces and mixed-age venues. Imagine places where someone can walk in alone and actually meet people. Imagine nightlife that doesn't necessarily begin at 10pm and end at 4am. That could be the future. Could Brighton become more event-led? One possible future is a move away from permanent venues being the centre of everything and towards events and experiences. Instead of relying on the same handful of LGBTQ+ bars every weekend, Brighton could see more temporary events taking over different venues. Queer DJs in mainstream clubs. Drag brunches. LGBTQ+ comedy. Pop-up parties. Queer film nights. Community dinners. Art exhibitions. Cabaret. Fitness and wellbeing events. Daytime parties. Outdoor events. The advantage is flexibility. Promoters can create something specifically for a particular audience rather than trying to make one venue appeal to everyone. But there is a downside. A permanent LGBTQ+ venue provides something an occasional event cannot: a home. And that may be the thing Brighton needs to protect. So, what is the future? The closures of R-Bar and Charles Street Tap should perhaps not be viewed simply as evidence that Brighton's LGBTQ+ scene is dying. Instead, they should be seen as a warning that the old model is under pressure. The future will probably involve a mixture of established venues, new businesses, pop-up events, community spaces and online communities. But there is a question Brighton needs to answer. Do we want an LGBTQ+ scene that exists mainly for Pride weekend and occasional big nights? Or do we want an LGBTQ+ community that has somewhere to meet, socialise and feel at home throughout the year? Because the strength of Brighton's LGBTQ+ scene has never really been about the number of bars. It has been about the people inside them. The city has always had a slightly rebellious, chaotic, welcoming and wonderfully queer character. The challenge now is making sure that character survives as nightlife, economics and people's habits change. Maybe the future isn't about bringing back the Brighton nightlife of the past. Maybe it's about creating something better for the next generation. But if the city is serious about remaining one of Britain's LGBTQ+ capitals, it will need to make sure that community doesn't become something that only happens once a year. What do you think? Are Brighton's LGBTQ+ nightlife habits changing? Do people still want traditional gay bars and clubs, or are we looking for something different? Has Pride strengthened the scene — or changed it beyond recognition? And most importantly: what should Brighton's LGBTQ+ nightlife look like in 2030?

Bangkok WorldPride 2030: Why Thailand Wants to Bring WorldPride to Asia Bangkok is bidding to make history by bringing WorldPride to Asia for the first time — and its proposal is about far more than staging one enormous Pride parade. Under the banner “Until All of Us Are Free”, Bangkok Pride has presented a vision for WorldPride 2030 built around human rights, community, culture, accessibility, sustainability and international solidarity. For g10 group, which has already announced its support for Bangkok Pride’s WorldPride 2030 bid, the proposal offers an opportunity to put Thailand — and LGBTQ+ communities from across Asia — at the centre of the global Pride movement. WorldPride is licensed by InterPride and brings together Pride organisations and LGBTQ+ communities internationally through marches, celebrations, cultural programmes and human-rights events. Bangkok Pride’s proposal envisages a 14-day global programme in 2030. And Bangkok’s message is clear: Until All of Us Are Free. The Heart of Pride in Asia Bangkok Pride describes its bid as “The Heart of Pride in Asia”, with the ambition of using WorldPride not simply as a major event but as a platform capable of creating a long-term impact for the global LGBTQ+ movement. The bid is community-led and rights-based. Bangkok Pride, operated by Naruemit Pride, works alongside the Pride City Network Thailand, connecting LGBTQIAN+ communities across Thailand and taking the movement far beyond the streets of Bangkok. That national dimension could be one of the most significant parts of Bangkok WorldPride Although Bangkok would host the flagship events, the organisers envisage Pride activity spreading around Thailand through the Pride City Network. Government reporting in 2026 described a network involving 58 pilot provinces, designed to advance gender equality and strengthen Thailand's preparations for the WorldPride bid. WorldPride in Bangkok could therefore become an opportunity to introduce an international audience not only to Bangkok's LGBTQ+ community, but to the diversity of queer communities across Thailand. A country transformed by marriage equality Bangkok's campaign also arrives at an important moment in Thailand's LGBTQ+ history. Thailand became the first country in Southeast Asia to legalise same-sex marriage, a milestone repeatedly highlighted by those supporting the WorldPride campaign. Thailand has also pointed to its participation in international human-rights initiatives, including the United Nations Human Rights Council and Equal Rights Coalition, as part of the wider context surrounding the bid. Bangkok Pride says its movement continues to advocate for issues including marriage equality, legal gender recognition and inclusive welfare. The proposal therefore presents WorldPride 2030 not as the end of Thailand's equality journey, but as another stage of it. An opening built around equality If Bangkok is chosen, the proposed WorldPride programme would begin with an Opening Ceremony at Benjakitti Park. One of the most striking elements currently proposed is a daytime mass wedding, transforming Thailand's marriage-equality milestone into a celebration on the WorldPride stage. The wider opening programme is intended to bring together people from different identities and backgrounds, including Indigenous communities, older people and people with disabilities. The evening would then turn the occasion into an international celebration, setting the tone for the fortnight ahead. At its heart would be the promise running through Bangkok's entire bid: Until All of Us Are Free. Pride Vibe @ Bangkok Benjakitti Park would also become home to Pride Vibe @ Bangkok. Built around the concept “Free to Be”, Pride Vibe is envisioned as an experiential space where people of different genders, generations and family structures can come together. Rather than Pride being something simply watched from behind a barrier, the concept aims to create shared public spaces in which people can participate, connect and celebrate their identities. It demonstrates an important theme running throughout the Bangkok proposal: WorldPride should have room for everyone. Pride Game: sport and esports join WorldPride WorldPride Bangkok would also embrace sport. The proposed Pride Game includes both a Pride Sport Arena and Pride Esport Arena, creating inclusive environments in which people can participate regardless of gender, age or background. Its focus is on breaking down physical and gender barriers while celebrating teamwork, strategy, creativity and dedication. Including esports alongside conventional sporting activities also gives Bangkok an opportunity to create a WorldPride programme reflecting contemporary Asian and global culture. Pride Disability Expo: putting accessibility centre stage Accessibility is another major component of the proposal. The Pride Disability Expo — Universal Design, planned for True Digital Park, would focus on innovation capable of creating a more accessible world. Startups, creators and changemakers would be invited to demonstrate solutions based around Universal Design, with the aim of empowering people with disabilities and making participation in society more inclusive. It means accessibility would not simply be treated as an operational requirement behind WorldPride. It would become part of the programme itself. That matters. A WorldPride claiming to represent the diversity of the global LGBTQ+ community also needs to recognise the intersecting experiences of disabled LGBTQ+ people. WorldPride goes to Government House Another proposed moment would take WorldPride into one of Thailand's most symbolic institutions. WorldPride Welcome at Government House is planned to combine international equality, diplomacy, youth participation and culture. The programme envisages a Rainbow Parliament, an InterPride Welcome Reception and a Youth Pride Sandbox, creating opportunities for political, community and youth voices to meet. Thailand's national government has publicly backed the country's candidature, alongside the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and organisations including the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau. Human rights at the centre The parties, performances and parade may attract some of the biggest crowds, but Bangkok's proposal deliberately places human rights at the centre of WorldPride. A major Human Rights Forum at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) would bring together activists, campaigners and changemakers from around the world. Importantly, Bangkok proposes to connect the experiences of LGBTQ+ movements in Asia and the Global South with the wider international conversation. The forum would feed into Bangkok Action 2030, envisaged by the organisers as a lasting roadmap for cross-border solidarity and structural change. This could give an Asian WorldPride significance far beyond Thailand. For LGBTQ+ people living in countries where equality remains distant — or where their identity can still expose them to discrimination or criminalisation — bringing one of the world's most visible LGBTQ+ gatherings to Asia would carry enormous symbolism. Celebrating Thailand's drag culture WorldPride would naturally have plenty of entertainment — and Thailand's internationally recognised drag scene would have its own place within the programme. Drag Xperience would take audiences behind the scenes of Thai drag. Rather than concentrating only on the finished performance, visitors would discover the craft that goes into creating it: makeup and illusion, costume, character creation and performance itself. It would allow WorldPride visitors to experience drag not simply as nightlife, but as an art form requiring creativity, technical ability and dedication. Thailand's LGBTQ+ stories on the international screen Film and television form another major part of the proposal. The Pride Content Experience × TILFF would coincide with the seventh edition of Thailand's international LGBTQIAN+ film and television festival. Bangkok Pride says the programme would help position Thailand as a global LGBTQIAN+ content hub, while supporting investment and sustainable development within the country's creative and Pink Economy. That feels particularly appropriate for Thailand. Thai LGBTQ+ entertainment already reaches audiences far beyond the country's borders. WorldPride could provide an even bigger international platform for Thai filmmakers, actors, writers, producers and other creatives while creating connections with LGBTQ+ storytellers from around the world. Pride and faith One of the more distinctive proposals is Pride Interfaith. Religion and LGBTQ+ identity can have a complicated relationship, and Bangkok's programme proposes creating a space where LGBTQ+ people from different religions and belief systems can explore faith and identity together. Personal stories, creative expression, workshops and spiritual practices would encourage listening, understanding and mutual respect. It is another example of Bangkok attempting to make WorldPride a place for conversations that are sometimes difficult but important. Then comes the Bangkok WorldPride Parade And, of course, there would be a parade. The proposed Bangkok WorldPride Parade at Sanam Luang would be one of the centrepieces of the entire fortnight. Bangkok's concept expands the parade's message beyond sexuality and gender identity to connect LGBTQ+ equality with wider questions including labour dignity, ecological justice, bodily autonomy, peace and interfaith understanding. Bangkok has already demonstrated its ability to stage Pride on a huge scale. The 2026 Bangkok Pride Festival included a rainbow parade stretching almost five kilometres, while also incorporating Thai cultural elements into the celebrations. WorldPride would take that experience onto an entirely different international stage. Imagine Bangkok filled with LGBTQ+ people and allies from Thailand, across Asia and around the world, marching together under one message: Until All of Us Are Free. A spectacular finale on the Chao Phraya Bangkok's proposed WorldPride would finish beside one of the defining features of the city: the Chao Phraya River. A Closing & Handover Ceremony at ICONSIAM would combine the traditional WorldPride host-flag handover with light, sound and sensory experiences. The proposal also promises eco-conscious innovations as part of the production, tying the finale into the wider sustainability ambitions of the bid. Against Bangkok's skyline and the Chao Phraya, it has the potential to provide an extraordinary final image of WorldPride 2030. But the intention is that the story would not finish when the lights go out. Legacy is fundamental to Bangkok's proposal. WorldPride beyond Bangkok Perhaps the biggest opportunity offered by the bid is contained in its name but extends far beyond it. This is Bangkok's candidature, but its ambitions are national and regional. Thailand's Pride City Network is intended to strengthen LGBTQ+ communities and equality initiatives across the country. Bangkok Pride says that, should the city host WorldPride, activity would extend beyond the capital, with side events envisaged in locations including Chiang Mai and the Isan region. That creates the possibility of WorldPride visitors discovering LGBTQ+ Thailand beyond Bangkok while allowing communities elsewhere in the country to participate in a global event. It could also leave behind networks and relationships long after 2030. The Pink Economy There is also an economic dimension. Thailand's government and bid partners have highlighted the potential for WorldPride to strengthen international tourism, the meetings and events sector, creative industries and Thailand's Pink or Rainbow Economy. Bangkok already possesses extensive tourism infrastructure. The official bid website says Thailand has more than 200,000 hotel rooms, alongside the transport, hospitality, entertainment and event infrastructure required to welcome visitors on a very large scale. But the economic opportunity extends beyond hotels and airlines. Restaurants, bars, independent businesses, designers, performers, filmmakers, venues, tourism operators and LGBTQ+-owned businesses could all potentially benefit from the international attention surrounding WorldPride. For Thailand's creative industries in particular, WorldPride could provide a global shop window. Peace. People. Pride. Thailand's preparations for its candidature have also been promoted around three words: Peace. People. Pride. Peace represents the ambition for a society without discrimination and with safe spaces for everyone. People represents equal respect for human rights and human dignity. Pride represents confidence in identity and diversity — and the contribution diversity can make to society and the creative economy. Those principles complement the central WorldPride bid message of “Until All of Us Are Free.” Together they underline what Bangkok is attempting to achieve: not simply a bigger Pride festival, but an event combining celebration with activism and leaving something meaningful behind. A gateway to Asia There have been WorldPrides in Europe, North America and Australia, with Cape Town set to host WorldPride 2028 in Africa. There has never been a WorldPride in Asia. Bangkok therefore offers something historically significant. An Asian WorldPride could give greater international visibility to LGBTQ+ people across a region containing an enormous range of cultures, religions, political systems and experiences of LGBTQ+ life. It could provide a platform for communities whose stories have not always received the same attention within the international Pride movement. And it could connect activists, Pride organisations and LGBTQ+ people across Asia with counterparts from every corner of the world. Why g10 group is backing Bangkok g10 group has already announced its support for Bangkok Pride's campaign to bring WorldPride to Thailand. Our support is about more than Bangkok being an extraordinary destination. It is about what an Asian WorldPride could represent. It is about giving LGBTQ+ communities across Asia a bigger place within the global Pride conversation. It is about recognising Thailand's journey towards equality while acknowledging that the work towards full equality does not end with marriage. It is about celebrating Thai LGBTQ+ culture, creativity and community. And it is about an opportunity for people from around the world to meet, learn from each other, celebrate together and build connections that survive long after WorldPride ends. Bangkok's bid combines the spectacular with the serious: a mass wedding and opening celebration; Pride Vibe; sport and esports; disability inclusion; Government House; a global Human Rights Forum; drag; LGBTQ+ film and television; interfaith dialogue; a WorldPride parade; and a closing celebration beside the Chao Phraya. Behind all of those individual events sits a much bigger ambition. To make Bangkok the Heart of Pride in Asia and use WorldPride as a platform for lasting change. Bangkok Pride's candidature has now been formally presented to InterPride. The WorldPride 2030 bidding process is closed, with Bangkok and Barcelona having presented proposals to the international Pride organisation. InterPride members ultimately select WorldPride host cities. For g10 group, our position has already been made clear. We back Bangkok Pride. We back the ambition to bring WorldPride to Asia for the first time. We back the opportunity to put Asian LGBTQ+ voices on one of the biggest Pride stages in the world. And we will be following Bangkok's journey towards WorldPride 2030. Bangkok 2030. Until All of Us Are Free.

Interview with UK based singer Jack Bruce who talks about his music For those who don't know you introduce yourself "I’m Jack Bruce. I’m a Pop Country artist originally from London, now based in Kent. I’m also a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, and I try to bring that authentic perspective into my music. For me, it’s about taking those classic country storytelling roots and giving them a fresh, modern pop edge." You have a brand new song out called Devil's child what is the song about? "It actually came from a very specific night out in Soho. I was at G-A-Y with a friend who was starting to get a bit of fame as an actress. We’d had a few too many drinks and were asked to leave, but she used her name to get herself back in and ended up leaving me outside on my own. I sat on the train from Charing Cross back to Greenwich and started writing right then and there. The song is about that person who looks incredible on the outside—someone polished and beautiful—but underneath, they’re only looking out for themselves. Like the lyrics say, she isn’t going to stick around once she’s finished with you. It’s that 'Devil in disguise' vibe." How can people purchase the song? "You can just search 'Jack Bruce Devil’s Child' on Spotify, Amazon Music, or iTunes—it’s also on YouTube. It’s also available in the music libraries on TikTok and Instagram, so I’d love to see people using it in their videos. Honestly, the biggest support right now is just people adding it to their personal playlists and sharing it. It makes a massive difference for independent artists like me." If anyone wants to follow my journey, you can find me on Instagram and TikTok @thisisjackbruce—everyone is welcome!" So the new year has just started a new single is out what other plans have you got in 2026? "It’s going to be a big year. I’m currently writing some songs for my debut EP, which I’m hoping to have out later this year—I have two songs that I’m working on right now that I'm really excited about. I’m also looking to start playing some live gigs, and I would love the opportunity to play some festivals this summer. Outside of the music, my sister and I have just started a podcast called 'Getting to Know Me.' It’s a space where we sit down with other musicians and people who work in the entertainment industry to find out their story and give them a platform to share their journeys. It’s all about building that community and getting to know the people behind the art."

g10 group looks back on its first eight months — and looks ahead to an exciting autumn and beyond It has already been a busy first eight months for g10 group — and there is plenty more to come. Since launching, g10 group has continued to grow its presence across digital media, entertainment, lifestyle, travel and beyond, with a growing range of content and new projects designed to give the LGBTQ+ community a digital home for news, lifestyle and more. Among the highlights of the first eight months has been the launch of g10 f1, bringing Formula 1 coverage and content to the g10 group audience, alongside the launch of g10 fitness, expanding the group’s offering into health, fitness and wellbeing. g10 group has also featured a number of exclusive g10 interviews, bringing audiences closer to a range of interesting and inspiring voices from across the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. Another major announcement came earlier this year when g10 group confirmed that it is backing Bangkok Pride’s bid to bring WorldPride to the Thai capital in 2030. With Bangkok bidding to host the global celebration, g10 group will be following the campaign closely, with further coverage and updates planned. But while the first eight months have seen g10 group establish itself, the next few months are set to take things to another level. A new autumn of podcasts and radio This autumn will see the launch of two brand-new podcasts, with 3 Gays and a Mic and g10 Talks both premiering on g10 radio and the g10 group YouTube channel. The autumn will also see the arrival of a brand-new weekday breakfast show on g10 radio. Breakfast with Brandon will broadcast Monday to Friday from 07:00–10:00, bringing listeners three hours of chat, music and entertainment to start the day with g10 radio. And there is more original content on the way. Look out for Queer History Files with Ben Chidley, coming soon to g10 group, as well as Beyond the Chequered Flag with Toby, a brand-new addition to the g10 f1 line-up. Fashion will also become part of the g10 group offering, with g10 fashion set to launch. Eurovision Asia and Tomorrowland Thailand g10 group will also be covering two major new events in Thailand this Autumn. On Saturday 14 November, g10 group will provide virtual coverage of the first-ever Eurovision Asia, taking place in Bangkok. Then, from 11–13 December, g10 group will bring audiences virtual coverage of the first-ever Tomorrowland Thailand. Both events will form part of g10 group’s growing coverage of major international entertainment and cultural events. Two big announcements in October October will bring two particularly exciting moments for g10 group. On 2 October, g10 group will announce its New Year's Eve plans, revealing what audiences can expect as the group prepares to see in the New Year. Then, just six days later on 8 October, there will be another major announcement. g10 films, the newest addition to the g10 group family, will reveal details of its first exciting project — and it is a project that everyone can be involved with. And then comes January… There is also a major date on the horizon for Bangkok. In January, the host city for WorldPride 2030 will be announced. g10 group is backing Bangkok's bid and will be hoping that the Thai capital is announced as the winner, bringing WorldPride to Bangkok in 2030. From new radio shows and podcasts to original programming, Formula 1, fashion, film, major international events and the continuing WorldPride campaign, the coming months promise to be some of the biggest yet for g10 group. The first eight months were just the beginning. The next chapter starts this autumn.

F1 2026: Halfway There, and the Championship Is Just Getting Started By Formula 1's new era has wasted little time delivering drama. With 11 rounds completed and the championship now on its summer break, the 2026 season has already given fans a new generation of stars, a rejuvenated seven-time World Champion, changing team fortunes and a title fight that is far from settled. For LGBTQ+ fans who love the glamour, personalities, rivalries and sheer spectacle of F1 as much as the racing itself, there is plenty to get excited about as the championship heads into its second half. And if the first 11 races are anything to go by, the remaining 12 could be spectacular. Antonelli: the man everyone is chasing The biggest story of the first half has undoubtedly been Kimi Antonelli. The Mercedes youngster has gone from promising teenager to genuine championship favourite in remarkably little time. After finishing second at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, Antonelli claimed his maiden F1 victory in China before winning again in Japan. His run continued in Miami, Canada and Monaco, making him the dominant force of the opening part of the season. He also became Formula 1's youngest-ever championship leader. At the summer break, Antonelli sits at the top of the Drivers' Championship with 219 points, 50 points clear of Lewis Hamilton. That is an impressive advantage — but it is not yet a comfortable one. Antonelli's challenge now is arguably more difficult than his first-half breakthrough: maintaining his composure while everyone around him works out how to beat him. Hamilton is back in the conversation If Antonelli has been the revelation, Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari revival has been one of the feel-good stories of 2026. After a difficult first season with Ferrari in 2025, there were questions about whether Hamilton could still fight consistently at the front. The answer, so far, has been emphatically yes. Hamilton took his first Ferrari podium in China, added further podiums in Canada and Monaco, and then finally achieved the moment Ferrari fans had been waiting for: victory in Barcelona. It was Hamilton's first win for Ferrari and put him firmly back into championship contention. He currently sits second with 169 points, 50 behind Antonelli. Hamilton himself has been rather less enthusiastic about his season, rating his first half as only "slightly above average". That might be classic Hamilton understatement — or a warning to everyone else. If Ferrari can continue closing the performance gap to Mercedes, the second half could see one of the sport's biggest stars mount a serious title challenge. Russell is still very much in the fight While Antonelli has grabbed most of the headlines at Mercedes, George Russell has quietly put together a very strong campaign. He won in Australia and Austria and has been a regular threat at the sharp end of the field. Russell currently occupies third place in the championship on 160 points, just nine behind Hamilton. That makes the battle inside Mercedes particularly fascinating. Antonelli has the momentum. Russell has experience and speed. And both know that every point matters when the championship enters its final stages Ferrari's double threat Ferrari could arguably have two drivers capable of challenging for major honours. Hamilton is second, while Charles Leclerc is fourth on 138 points. Leclerc's victory has so far come at the British Grand Prix, where he finished ahead of Russell and Hamilton in a remarkably close result. Ferrari therefore enters the second half with genuine momentum. The big question is whether the Scuderia can turn individual successes into sustained pressure on Mercedes. McLaren and Red Bull aren't finished yet Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have not disappeared from the championship picture either. Norris has 128 points and Piastri 92, while Max Verstappen sits sixth on 109 points. Norris at least enters the summer break on a high after winning the Hungarian Grand Prix, while Verstappen finished second. For Red Bull, however, the first half has been more difficult than many would have expected. Verstappen is still capable of winning races, but the team currently sits fourth in the Constructors' Championship behind Mercedes, Ferrari and McLaren. A few strong weekends could change that quickly. The real winner? Competition Perhaps the most encouraging aspect of 2026 has been the way the competitive order has evolved. Mercedes appeared to have the advantage early in the year, but Ferrari, McLaren and Red Bull have steadily closed the gap. F1 itself notes that five different drivers from three different teams won the five races immediately before the summer break. That is exactly what supporters want from a championship. Rather than one team disappearing into the distance, the development race has become almost as important as the racing itself. The 2026 regulations were a major reset for F1, bringing smaller, lighter cars, active aerodynamics and a substantially revised power-unit philosophy. As teams understand those cars better, the competitive picture continues to change. And that could make the second half particularly unpredictable. The midfield deserves some love too Not everything in F1 is about the championship. Racing Bulls have emerged as the leading midfield team, while Alpine have slipped back after a stronger start. Williams have had a particularly frustrating campaign after finishing fifth in the 2025 Constructors' Championship. They currently sit ninth. Aston Martin have also endured a difficult season but showed signs of progress with updates in Hungary. Then there is Cadillac, the new team on the grid. The American outfit has made a respectable debut season, bringing Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas back together as its experienced driver pairing. The team has yet to score a point, but its ability to run with the midfield at times has provided plenty of encouragement for F1's newest entrant. And, for fans who enjoy an underdog story, Cadillac is certainly one to watch. What can we expect from the second half? The summer break is almost over. The Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort takes place from 21–23 August, before the championship heads to Monza, Madrid and Baku. Then comes an increasingly hectic run towards the finale. The races to watch 🇳🇱 Netherlands — 21–23 August The championship returns at Zandvoort, where the pressure immediately returns to Antonelli. Can Mercedes re-establish its advantage? 🇮🇹 Italy — 4–6 September Monza is Ferrari territory in every sense. Expect Hamilton and Leclerc to arrive with enormous expectations — and plenty of attention on the red cars. 🇪🇸 Spain — 11–13 September The new Madrid race adds another intriguing chapter to the 2026 calendar. 🇦🇿 Azerbaijan — 24–26 September Baku's walls, long straights and unpredictable races make it one of the calendar's biggest wild cards. 🇸🇬 Singapore — 9–11 October A night race, intense heat and a spectacular city backdrop. Singapore could be crucial for the championship. 🇺🇸 United States — 23–25 October Austin brings another major F1 weekend before the championship heads into its final run. 🇲🇽 Mexico — 30 October–1 November Mexico City is always one of the most colourful and atmospheric weekends of the season. 🇧🇷 Brazil — 6–8 November São Paulo's Interlagos circuit can produce chaos — exactly what a close championship needs. 🇺🇸 Las Vegas — 19–21 November F1 returns to the neon-lit Strip for another glamorous night race. 🇶🇦 Qatar — 27–29 November By this point, the championship picture could be dramatically different. 🇦🇪 Abu Dhabi — 4–6 December And then it all comes down to Yas Marina. So, who will be champion? If you were forced to make the prediction today, Antonelli would have to be the obvious choice. A 50-point lead after 11 rounds is significant, particularly when the driver has already demonstrated that he can win repeatedly. But Formula 1 has a habit of making confident predictions look ridiculous. Hamilton has rediscovered his winning form. Russell remains within striking distance. Leclerc has demonstrated race-winning pace. Norris has shown he can capitalise when the opportunity arrives. And Verstappen is still Verstappen. The second half could therefore become a fascinating battle between the established champions and stars and a young driver who suddenly finds himself with the biggest target in Formula 1. The g10 F1 verdict Best driver so far: Kimi Antonelli Biggest comeback: Lewis Hamilton Most intriguing rivalry: Antonelli vs Hamilton Team to watch: Ferrari Dark horse: Max Verstappen Biggest surprise: Cadillac's debut Team with the most to prove: Red Bull Race we're most excited about: Las Vegas Predicted champion: Kimi Antonelli — but don't rule out Hamilton The first half of 2026 has already delivered plenty: new technology, new rivalries, old champions finding their form and a teenager taking control of the championship. But with 12 races still to come, the most exciting part may be waiting for us. For LGBTQ+ F1 fans, there is plenty of glamour, drama, personalities and racing still to enjoy. So polish the sunglasses, prepare the group chat and get ready for the second half. The lights are about to go out again This article was researched and updated on 13 August 2026. Championship standings and the race calendar are subject to change as the season progresses.

Thinking of doing Pilates then check out our beginers guide A Beginner’s Guide to Pilates: Strength, Balance, and Body Confidence Pilates has quietly become one of the most loved forms of movement across the UK—and for good reason. It’s low-impact, adaptable, and deeply effective at building strength, improving posture, and helping you reconnect with your body. Whether you’re stepping into a studio for the first time or rolling out a mat at home, Pilates offers something powerful: a way to move that feels good, not punishing. For LGBTQ+ communities especially, where relationships with body image, identity, and wellness can be complex, Pilates can be a refreshing, affirming approach to fitness. What Is Pilates? Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on controlled movements, breath, and alignment. Developed in the early 20th century, it centres on strengthening your “core”—not just your abs, but your back, hips, and pelvic floor. Unlike high-intensity workouts that prioritise speed or calorie burn, Pilates is about precision. Every movement has a purpose, and even small adjustments can make a big difference. Why Pilates Works Pilates isn’t about chasing a particular body type—it’s about building a stronger, more functional one. Some key benefits include: Improved posture: Ideal if you spend long hours at a desk or on your phone Core strength: Supports everyday movement and reduces injury risk Flexibility and mobility: Helps you move more freely and comfortably Mind-body connection: Encourages awareness and presence Low impact: Gentle on joints, making it accessible for many fitness levels Getting Started You don’t need much to begin—just a mat, comfortable clothing, and a bit of space. 1. Learn the Basics Start with foundational moves like: The Hundred (a breathing and endurance exercise) Roll-ups (for spinal mobility) Leg circles (for hip stability) Focus on form rather than reps. Slower is better. 2. Try a Class If you can, attend a beginner class—either in person or online. A qualified instructor can help you understand alignment and avoid common mistakes. Many studios across the UK now offer inclusive, queer-friendly spaces, or explicitly state their commitment to welcoming all bodies and identities. 3. Build Consistency Two to three sessions a week is a great starting point. Even 15–20 minutes can be effective if done mindfully. Pilates and Body Confidence Fitness spaces haven’t always been welcoming to LGBTQ+ people. Pilates, however, often feels different. Its emphasis on internal strength rather than external appearance can help shift the focus away from how your body looks and toward how it feels. This can be particularly meaningful for: Trans and non-binary people navigating body changes Anyone healing from body image struggles Those seeking a non-competitive, supportive environment Pilates encourages you to meet your body where it is—no comparisons, no pressure. At-Home vs Studio Pilates Both options have their advantages: At-home Pilates Flexible and convenient Often more affordable Great for privacy and comfort Studio Pilates Access to equipment like reformers Real-time guidance from instructors A sense of community Choose what feels safest and most motivating for you. Tips for a Positive Experience Listen to your body: Discomfort is okay; pain is not Breathe deeply: Breath is central to every movement Avoid perfectionism: Progress takes time Seek inclusive spaces: Look for instructors and platforms that reflect and respect diversity Final Thoughts Pilates isn’t about transforming into someone else—it’s about becoming more connected to yourself. In a world that often tells LGBTQ+ people how they should look or move, Pilates offers a quieter, kinder alternative. It’s not just exercise. It’s a practice of strength, awareness, and self-respect. And that’s something worth showing up for.

Interview with Tim Kusters Mr. Gay Europe 2023- 2024 Tell us about Voices of Strength voices of pride? “Voices of Strength, Faces of Pride” is a global platform that celebrates the strength, diversity, and resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community. By giving ambassadors and organizations greater visibility, we highlight the positive impact they are making around the world. In addition, we foster a community of like-minded individuals who come together to create meaningful change. What made you come up with the idea? I have been advocating for equality and acceptance for many years, with a strong focus on mental health and suicide prevention, LGBTQIA+ parenting, sexual health, and overall representation. Through my experience as an ambassador and being openly out for the past 15 years, I have come to feel that we sometimes focus too much on the negative aspects, rather than on the incredible work being done around the world to fight inequality, discrimination and building safe spaces. In August 2025, I had the pleasure of organizing Mr. Gay Europe 2025 in Amsterdam together with a dear friend. There, I was reminded by all the finalists of the powerful initiatives they were leading and the motivation they had to drive real change. This experience marked the beginning of Voices of Strength, Faces of Pride. I wanted to showcase their stories, as well as those of other ambassadors, and highlight these inspiring initiatives, hoping to encourage others to do the same. What do you hope to achieve from the project? By giving visibility to ambassadors and organizations that are actively driving change, I aim to highlight the positive impact already happening within the LGBTQIA+ community worldwide. Ultimately, the goal is to build a supportive, like-minded community that inspires others to take action, strengthens existing initiatives, and contributes to greater equality, acceptance, and well-being for all. How can people get involved? People can get involved by supporting and amplifying the voices of ambassadors and organizations featured on the platform, sharing their stories within their own networks, and actively engaging with the community. Individuals and organizations are also encouraged to submit their own initiatives, collaborate on projects, and contribute ideas that help drive positive change. By working together, we can strengthen existing efforts and inspire others to take action for equality and acceptance. If you are involved in meaningful advocacy and would like to be featured on our platform, please visit https://www.voicesofstrengthfacesofpride.com/ and fill out the contact form. Be sure to also follow our new Instagram account, @voicesofstrengthfacesofpride.

Your work captures both strength and vulnerability in male portraiture — what first drew you to photographing the male form in such an intimate way? I think it started from a fairly personal place. Growing up, I didn’t see a lot of versions of masculinity that felt relatable to me. Everything was quite rigid, quite performative. When I picked up a camera, I realised I could explore a different side of that. Something quieter, more honest. The male form is often presented as strong, but rarely as open. I’ve always been interested in that space where those two things overlap. The moment where someone lets their guard down just enough that you see the person, not the performance. That’s where it gets interesting for me How has living and working in Sydney influenced your artistic style and the stories you choose to tell through your photography? Sydney has this beautiful contradiction to it. It’s very outdoors, very physical, very body-aware, but at the same time there’s a laid-back ease that softens everything. I think that combination has definitely shaped my work. There’s a natural light here that’s quite forgiving, quite revealing in a gentle way. And culturally, there’s a quiet confidence in how people carry themselves. I’m drawn to that. My work tends to sit somewhere between polished and relaxed, which probably mirrors the city itself. Representation matters deeply within LGBTQ+ media. What do you hope queer audiences see or feel when they experience your work? Ideally, I want people to feel a sense of recognition. Not in a literal sense, but emotionally. To see that masculinity doesn’t have to fit into one narrow definition. There’s strength in vulnerability, in softness, in intimacy. I think a lot of us grow up feeling like parts of ourselves need to be edited down. If my work can give even a small sense that all of those parts are valid and worth showing, then I feel like I’m doing something worthwhile. Many photographers focus on aesthetics alone, but your portraits often feel emotionally charged. How do you build trust and authenticity with your subjects during a shoot? It’s never really about the camera at the start. It’s about conversation, creating a space where someone feels comfortable enough to just be themselves. I don’t rush that process. Sometimes the best images come well after you’ve technically “started” the shoot. I’ll give direction when it’s needed, but I’m also watching for those in-between moments when someone forgets they’re being photographed. Trust isn’t something you can fake. If someone feels safe, it shows immediately in the work. Male figure photography can challenge traditional ideas of masculinity. Do you see your work as political, cultural, or more personal in its intention? It’s personal first. That’s always the starting point. That said, anything that challenges a traditional idea, even quietly, becomes cultural by default. I’m not setting out to make overtly political work, but I am interested in expanding the definition of what masculinity can look like. If that resonates more broadly, then that’s a good thing. Social media has transformed how photographers share and monetize their art. How has the digital era changed your relationship with your audience and creative process? It’s been a bit of a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s opened up direct access to an audience I never would have reached otherwise. That’s been incredibly valuable, especially with more niche work. On the other hand, there’s a constant pressure to adapt to platforms that don’t always support the kind of work I create. You have to be quite strategic about what you show and how you show it. I’ve learned to separate the work itself from how it’s distributed. The creative process still needs to come from a genuine place. The rest is just navigation. Is there a particular shoot or portrait that changed the way you saw yourself as an artist? There have been a few, but the ones that stand out are usually the shoots where something unexpected happens. Where a subject brings a level of openness that shifts the whole dynamic. Those moments remind me that the work isn’t just about technical skill. It’s about connection. Every time that clicks into place, it resets my understanding of what I’m trying to do. LGBTQ+ creatives often navigate censorship differently online, especially when working with the human body. Have you encountered challenges balancing artistic expression with platform restrictions? Constantly. There’s an ongoing negotiation between staying true to the work and working within the limits of different platforms. It can be frustrating, especially when the human body is treated inconsistently depending on context. But it’s also forced me to think more carefully about presentation, cropping, and storytelling. At the end of the day, the work exists beyond social media. Those platforms are just one way of sharing it. What advice would you give to emerging queer photographers who want to create bold, authentic work but may still be finding confidence in their voice? Give yourself time. Your voice doesn’t appear overnight. Shoot consistently, experiment, make work that feels honest rather than what you think will get attention. Confidence tends to follow clarity, and clarity comes from doing the work over and over again. Also, don’t wait for permission. No one’s going to hand it to you. Looking ahead, what stories, themes, or collaborations are you most excited to explore next in your photography journey? I’m interested in pushing further into narrative. Creating bodies of work that feel more like a series than individual images. There’s also something in exploring age and masculinity that I’d like to spend more time on. It’s not a space that’s been fully explored, and it feels quite personal at this stage of my life. And, as always, collaborating with people who are open to going a bit deeper than just surface-level imagery. That’s where the best work tends to happen. WARNING THIS INTERVIEW INCLUDES PICTURES OF FULL FRONTAL NUDITY

For people meeting you for the first time, who is GIO X, and what story are you telling through your music and art? My music is inspired by living and loving in a big city. There’s a darkness in my debut EP, but there’s beauty in everything if you’re willing to look for it. That’s the story I’m always trying to tell. You describe yourself as an unapologetically queer artist. What does living and creating unapologetically mean to you in 2026? Through my music career, I’ve realised there are three levels of filters when it comes to creativity: people you don’t know, people closest to you, and yourself. All three can be equally hard to please. At some point, I stopped trying to satisfy everyone and focused on what I wanted. If I finish a song, play it back, and it makes me feel something, I release it. And if I change my mind later, that’s fine too. I’ll make the next one better. How has your LGBTQ+ identity influenced your creative process, songwriting, performance style, or visual aesthetic? I come from a pretty conservative background, so expressing myself the way I wanted through art wasn’t always easy. It’s been a long journey. Along the way, I’ve met people who inspired me and encouraged me to put myself out there, and I’m really grateful for that. I think that freedom I’ve found naturally shows up in my music, performances, and visuals. Have there been any artists, activists, or cultural figures who inspired you to embrace your authentic self and pursue your career? Tove Lo. She’s incredibly talented and has the perfect amount of “I don’t give a fuck” energy. She’s just cool. The music industry has evolved significantly in its representation of queer artists. What progress have you seen, and where do you think more change is still needed? There’s always been a bit of irony when it comes to representation in the music industry. Queer people have played a massive role behind the scenes for decades, but we still don’t see enough of them front and centre. The industry will always support what makes money, and a lot of the formulas get repeated. That’s why it’s so important to support local talent. Go to the pubs, go to the small gigs, support your artist friends. Don’t just wait for the next manufactured pop princess to appear at the O2. Many LGBTQ+ young people look to artists for visibility and hope. What message would you like to share with queer people who are still finding their voice? Stop doom-scrolling and start networking with other queer artists. Community can change everything. What has been the most rewarding moment of your journey so far, and what challenges have helped shape you as an artist? Right after lockdown, I performed live for the first time in five years. Friends, family, and even people who didn’t know I was a singer were there. It was nerve-racking, but it was also one of the most rewarding moments of my life. It reminded me how much I love being on stage, and I haven’t stopped since. Your work often celebrates individuality and self-expression. How do you balance being vulnerable in your art while maintaining personal boundaries? I love being open in my music because that’s often where the strongest connections happen. At the same time, I keep some things just for myself. My lyrics are very metaphorical, and I’m not always going to tell you exactly what they mean. Wink, wink. What projects, collaborations, or creative goals are you most excited about right now, and what can your audience expect next from GIO X? I’m headlining the Fetish Awards UK on 11 July at the RVT, which I’m really excited about. I’ve been working on new music and visuals for the show, pushing myself and experimenting in new ways, and I can’t wait for people to experience it. If you could leave one lasting impact on LGBTQ+ culture and the music industry, what would you want your legacy to be? I’d love my legacy to be showing that there’s space for everyone in music. Every song matters, and every project is part of a bigger journey. If my work encourages people to be themselves and take up space unapologetically, that would mean a lot to me. What’s one thing people assume about GIO X that couldn’t be further from the truth? That I’m not socially awkward.

Why getting a massage is an important part of a fitness routine Massage as a Vital Part of Fitness for the LGBTQ+ Community In recent years, the conversation around fitness has expanded beyond aesthetics and performance to include recovery, mental wellbeing, and inclusivity. For the LGBTQ+ community, fitness spaces can sometimes feel intimidating or exclusionary, making it even more important to embrace holistic practices that support both body and mind. One such practice gaining recognition is massage therapy—not just as a luxury, but as an essential component of a balanced fitness routine. Beyond the Gym: Rethinking Fitness Fitness is no longer confined to lifting weights or hitting cardio targets. Recovery is now widely acknowledged as a cornerstone of progress. Massage plays a key role in this shift, helping to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and prevent injury. For LGBTQ+ individuals who may already navigate higher levels of stress due to societal pressures or discrimination, massage offers an added layer of physical and emotional relief. The Mental Health Connection Mental health is a significant consideration within the LGBTQ+ community, with studies consistently showing higher rates of anxiety, depression, and stress. Physical activity helps—but pairing it with massage can amplify the benefits. Massage therapy promotes relaxation, reduces cortisol levels, and can improve sleep quality. For those balancing demanding lives or dealing with identity-related stressors, this combination can be transformative. Creating Safe and Affirming Wellness Spaces Not all wellness environments feel inclusive. That’s why it’s important to highlight and support massage therapists and fitness professionals who actively create LGBTQ+-affirming spaces. Feeling safe and respected during a massage session is crucial—it allows clients to fully relax and benefit from the treatment. Many practitioners across the UK are now openly inclusive, using gender-neutral language and ensuring their services cater to diverse bodies and identities. Enhancing Performance and Recovery Whether it’s strength training, yoga, running, or dance, massage can enhance performance across all fitness disciplines. Techniques like deep tissue massage and sports massage help to break down muscle adhesions, improve flexibility, and speed up recovery time. For those training regularly, incorporating massage into a weekly or monthly routine can lead to better results and fewer injuries. Community and Self-Care For LGBTQ+ individuals, self-care often carries deeper meaning. It can be an act of resilience, self-affirmation, and empowerment. Massage fits naturally into this framework. It’s not just about easing sore muscles—it’s about reconnecting with your body in a positive, affirming way. Fitness doesn’t have to be punishing or rigid. By integrating massage into a routine, individuals can create a more sustainable, enjoyable approach to health—one that honours both physical goals and emotional wellbeing. As fitness culture continues to evolve, inclusivity and holistic care must remain at the forefront. Massage therapy offers a powerful, accessible way to support recovery, reduce stress, and enhance overall wellbeing. For the LGBTQ+ community, it’s more than just a wellness trend—it’s a meaningful addition to a lifestyle centred on self-respect, resilience, and balance. For platforms like g10 and other LGBTQ+ media voices in the UK, highlighting these approaches helps reshape the narrative around fitness into one that is truly inclusive, empowering, and sustainable.