Your digital home for LGBTQ+ life and beyond NEW THE RED RIBBON 2027 CALENDAR Top news stories 此語言尚未有已發佈之文章 文章發佈後將於此處顯示。 LISTEN LIVE HERE Explore our content ANGIE BROWN SAM MILLETTI BABY TAP TIN What's coming up COMING SOON 14th NOVEMBER 1st DECEMBER 11th-13th DECEMBER THE LONG WEEKEND | SUMMER 2027

The Red Ribbon calendar is back for 2027. We speak to Jordan Chan the brainchild of the calendar. The Red Ribbon Calendar is returning for 2027. What made you decide to bring the project back for another year, and what have you learned from the success of the previous calendar? I wanted to bring back the calendar for 2027 due to the success of last year’s calendar, which sold over 400 calendars and raised £3,400 which was split between Sussex Beacon and Terrence Higgins and leaned that the launch parties were a huge part of its success. Once again you’re raising money for Terrence Higgins Trust and The Sussex Beacon. Why was it important to continue supporting these two organisations, and what does their work mean to you personally? Yes, these two charities do fantastic work raising awareness for HIV as the country works towards 2030 Zero, and supports those living with HIV. Personally I have very close friends living with HIV, who rely on HIV charities and their support, but as a gay man, knowing the deviation the aids crisis had in the 80/90s, I want to to do my bit to help ensure our community never goes through that again. The calendar is about more than fundraising — it also aims to challenge stigma and encourage conversations around HIV. What do you hope people will take away from the 2027 calendar beyond the photographs themselves? Yes that’s right, we want to start conversations around HIV to help fight the stigma, encourage testing and safe sex, and also educate people on what treatments and prevention is out there! Those living with HIV should not have to face stigma and should be treated with the same dignity and respec You’re working again with Mwords Photography. How has your creative partnership developed, and can you give us a hint about what will make the photography and concept of the 2027 calendar different this time around? Yes this is actually our third calendar together, with this being the second red ribbon. I always wanted to create my own calendar, and raise money for charity, the first was for testicular cancer and the odd balls foundation, and now the red ribbon for the second year. Mark (Mwords) wanted to strip the calendar back making the red ribbon the front and centre, and went with black and white which I love. I could do the calendar without Mark and the boys! Looking ahead to the launch of the Red Ribbon Calendar 2027, what are your ambitions for this year — both in terms of the amount you hope to raise and the number of people you hope the campaign can reach? This years calendar is coming back bigger and better with the same locations for launch as last year but I’ve added Hastings! Saturday 24th October - Brighton at Bar Broadway Saturday 7th November - Hastings Forbidden Fruit Saturday 28th November - Kent La Margate Saturday 12th December - London Admiral Duncan and Village We want to sell more calendars than last year and raise even more money! I would like to the take the opportunity to thank all our sponsors for this years calendar too! 1 Million Gays Cafe Nucleus Forbidden Fruit Regency Tavern Thames Active La Margate Queer Kent Life Bar Broadway Pier Ceylon Bull Dog Margate Beach Club Friend of Dorothy Sukrew BUY YOUR CALENDAR NOW

g10 group backs Bangkok Pride bid to bring WorldPride to Asia in 2030 g10 group has announced its support for Bangkok Pride’s bid to host WorldPride 2030, backing a campaign that could see the world’s major LGBTQ+ celebration held in Asia for the first time. The UK-based LGBTQ+ digital media company believes Bangkok would be an outstanding host for WorldPride and that bringing the event to Thailand would represent an important moment for LGBTQ+ visibility, equality and international solidarity. Bangkok is now one of just two cities remaining in the race to host WorldPride 2030, alongside Barcelona. The final decision will be made by members of InterPride, with the successful host expected to be announced in January 2027. For g10 group, the Bangkok bid is about much more than staging a major Pride celebration. It represents an opportunity to put LGBTQ+ communities in Asia at the centre of the global Pride movement and to showcase the progress, diversity and creativity of Thailand to an international audience. A historic opportunity for Asia WorldPride is organised under the licence of InterPride and brings together Pride organisations and LGBTQ+ communities from around the world. The event promotes LGBTQ+ visibility and awareness internationally and can include Pride marches, festivals, cultural events and human-rights conferences. If Bangkok wins the 2030 bid, it would be the first time WorldPride has been held in Asia. That possibility is one of the reasons g10 group is supporting the campaign. For decades, some of the world's most prominent Pride events have taken place in North America, Europe and Australia. Bringing WorldPride to Bangkok would provide an opportunity for the global LGBTQ+ community to experience Pride in a different cultural setting and to hear directly from LGBTQ+ communities across Asia. It would also send a powerful message that the international Pride movement belongs to every region of the world. Thailand has already taken significant steps in LGBTQ+ equality. The Thai government notes that the country became the first in Southeast Asia to legalise same-sex marriage, while the Bangkok WorldPride bid has received support from national and local government, Pride organisations and private-sector partners. For g10 group, that combination of progress and ambition makes Bangkok an especially compelling candidate. Why g10 group is supporting the bid g10 group was created as a digital home for LGBTQ+ news, lifestyle, travel and stories from across the community. Its audience extends beyond the UK, with international LGBTQ+ destinations, events and issues increasingly forming an important part of its coverage. Supporting Bangkok's WorldPride campaign therefore feels like a natural extension of g10 group's mission. Bangkok is a city with a long-established reputation as a major international destination, but its importance to the LGBTQ+ community extends beyond tourism. The city's Pride movement has grown considerably in recent years, with Bangkok Pride becoming an increasingly visible part of the city's cultural calendar. Bangkok Pride Festival 2026 was held under the theme “Patch the World with Pride”, with organisers using the event to demonstrate Thailand's readiness to compete for the right to host a major international Pride event. The 2026 celebrations included a major Pride parade and brought together community organisations, government agencies, tourism bodies, businesses and LGBTQ+ networks. That broad coalition is an important part of Bangkok's WorldPride proposition. The bid is not simply a campaign by one organisation. Thailand's candidature has been supported by Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, the Pride City Network Thailand, government ministries, tourism organisations and other public and private-sector partners. Pride with a purpose WorldPride should be about more than colourful parades, parties and tourism campaigns. At its heart, Pride is about visibility, equality, human rights and the ability of LGBTQ+ people to live openly and safely. That is another reason g10 group believes Bangkok deserves serious consideration. Thailand's WorldPride campaign has presented the event as an opportunity to promote equality and human rights while creating a lasting social and economic legacy. The Thai government has said that its WorldPride preparations are intended to demonstrate readiness to welcome LGBTQ+ visitors from around the world while also supporting longer-term progress on equality and the development of an inclusive economy. The campaign has also received international diplomatic support. In July, Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other partners held an event bringing together diplomatic representatives and Pride networks to build support for the Bangkok candidature. That international engagement matters because WorldPride is ultimately a global event. A successful Bangkok bid could provide a platform for conversations about LGBTQ+ rights across Asia, including the challenges faced by communities in countries where equality and acceptance remain more difficult to achieve. A message to LGBTQ+ people across Asia For many LGBTQ+ people, the significance of WorldPride coming to Bangkok would extend far beyond the millions of visitors who might attend. It could be an important moment of recognition. Hosting WorldPride in Asia would allow LGBTQ+ communities across the region to see their experiences reflected on one of the world's biggest LGBTQ+ stages. It would also give activists, campaigners, organisations and community groups an opportunity to share their work with a much wider international audience. g10 group believes that visibility matters. The international LGBTQ+ community is not a single, uniform group. It is made up of people with different cultures, languages, histories and experiences. A WorldPride in Bangkok would help underline that diversity. It could also encourage greater international collaboration between LGBTQ+ organisations in Europe, Asia and beyond. Bangkok's growing Pride profile Bangkok has already demonstrated that it can stage large-scale Pride celebrations. The 2026 Bangkok Pride Parade featured a major route through the city and formed part of a wider programme designed to showcase Thailand's LGBTQ+ community and its ambitions for WorldPride. The Tourism Authority of Thailand described the celebrations as part of the country's preparations for WorldPride 2030. The Thai government has also highlighted cooperation with civil society and Pride networks across the country. In 2026, initiatives involving the Pride City Network expanded the campaign beyond Bangkok, with dozens of provinces participating in efforts connected to equality and inclusion. That national approach could help ensure that a Bangkok WorldPride would not be confined to one city. Instead, it could become a wider celebration of LGBTQ+ Thailand. More than a tourism opportunity There is, inevitably, an economic dimension to hosting an event of this scale. WorldPride attracts international visitors, media attention and investment, while creating opportunities for hotels, restaurants, airlines, entertainment venues, cultural organisations and other businesses. Thailand's government has openly linked the Bangkok bid with tourism, the creative industries, the meetings and events sector and the development of what it describes as the country's “Pink Economy”. But g10 group believes the economic benefits should support, rather than overshadow, the community purpose of WorldPride. A successful bid should leave a legacy that can be felt after the flags have come down and international visitors have returned home. That means continued support for LGBTQ+ organisations, greater visibility, safer spaces, inclusive tourism and meaningful progress on equality. Why now? The timing could hardly be more significant. The world is continuing to experience both progress and setbacks on LGBTQ+ rights. In some countries, legal protections and social acceptance have expanded dramatically. Elsewhere, LGBTQ+ communities continue to face discrimination, violence and political pressure. Against that backdrop, WorldPride has an important role to play. It can provide a global platform for celebration, but it can also remind governments and communities that equality cannot be taken for granted. A WorldPride in Bangkok could bring that message to a part of the world where LGBTQ+ communities are incredibly diverse and where the international movement still has enormous potential to grow. g10 group: “Bangkok deserves our support” For g10 group, supporting Bangkok is therefore about recognising what the bid could mean for LGBTQ+ people both in Thailand and internationally. The organisation believes Bangkok has the opportunity to deliver a WorldPride that is energetic, welcoming, culturally distinctive and genuinely international. It could also help challenge the idea that the biggest LGBTQ+ events must always take place in the same familiar global cities. Bangkok offers something different. It offers the chance to put Asia at the heart of the WorldPride movement. It offers the chance to showcase Thai LGBTQ+ culture and creativity. And, perhaps most importantly, it offers the chance to build new connections between LGBTQ+ people across continents. With Bangkok and Barcelona now competing in the final stage of the 2030 race, the decision will ultimately rest with InterPride's membership. Whatever the final outcome, g10 group believes the Bangkok campaign has already helped demonstrate the growing strength and visibility of LGBTQ+ communities in Thailand. But we hope the next chapter is even bigger. g10 group is proud to support Bangkok Pride's bid for WorldPride 2030. We believe the time has come for WorldPride to come to Asia. And we believe Bangkok could be the city to make history.

NeuroQueerz brings a calmer, more inclusive Pride experience to Manchester Village Pride Pride is a celebration of identity, community, equality and belonging. For many LGBTQ+ people, it is one of the most important and joyful weekends of the year. But while Pride is often associated with packed streets, loud music, busy venues and huge crowds, that environment can be challenging for some members of the community. This Manchester Village Pride weekend, NeuroQueerz is helping to create a different kind of Pride experience by providing a dedicated Calm Space for neurodivergent LGBTQ+ people, their friends, allies and anyone who needs somewhere to step away from the hustle and bustle. Founded by Luke Boss, NeuroQueerz is focused on wellness, empowerment and belonging, with the aim of ensuring that neurodivergent people are not excluded from LGBTQ+ spaces simply because traditional Pride environments can sometimes feel overwhelming. The Calm Space isn't about taking people away from Pride. Instead, it is about giving people another way to experience it. As Luke explains: “Everybody knows how to celebrate or party but in different ways.” He believes that neurodivergent people should have the freedom to enjoy Pride on their own terms, whether that means spending hours celebrating with others or taking some time away from the crowds before heading back into the action. “Our aim is to NOT make this stereotypical and boring,” says Luke. “It is a place to socialise, chill out, and be in the Pride weekend mood!” A different way to experience Pride For neurodivergent LGBTQ+ people, sensory stimulation can sometimes become overwhelming. Loud music, flashing lights, crowded streets, queues, unfamiliar surroundings and constantly changing environments can all contribute to sensory overload. But, as Luke points out, neurodiversity affects everyone differently. “For some it impacts them so greatly that they avoid certain areas regardless, some it varies depending on the situation. Some, it's on a day-by-day basis how they are feeling, and for some, it doesn't impact them at all!” That individuality is central to the NeuroQueerz approach. Rather than assuming that every neurodivergent person needs the same support, the organisation wants people to have choices. The Calm Space can therefore be somewhere to spend a significant part of the day—or simply somewhere to recharge for an hour before returning to Pride. Luke describes the goal as providing people with “a place to be themselves whilst fulfilling their Pride limitations and expectations.” He believes everyone attending a Pride event should be able to decide what they want to experience and what they don't. “We want people to leave our space thinking they had a good time whether they spent the majority of the day here or if they used the space to escape from the chaos for an hour and get back to party mode!” Making Pride accessible beyond physical access Accessibility is often discussed in terms of physical access: ramps, accessible toilets, seating and step-free entrances. Those things remain vital, but Luke believes the conversation needs to go much further. For someone who is autistic, has ADHD or is otherwise neurodivergent, simply finding their way around a large Pride event can present its own challenges. Luke recalls attending a Pride where signage and instructions around wristbands and entrances were unclear. “Many regular street access points were closed off, and the signage was so few and far between that it frustrated me,” he says. Even instructions that appear straightforward to others can become difficult to process in a busy environment. “Things like street names don't make sense to me, especially in hectic environments,” Luke explains. His solution is simple but potentially transformative: make volunteers and staff available to physically guide people where necessary. “Someone may not be restricted from a physical aspect, but they would benefit from someone directing them more than telling them the street name and giving lefts and rights.” For Luke, accessibility can sometimes be as simple as someone saying, “Come with me, I'll show you.” A space where people don't have to choose between Pride and their wellbeing One of the biggest concerns for people who find busy environments difficult is the fear that leaving the main Pride celebrations means missing out. That is something NeuroQueerz hopes to challenge. Luke points out that without spaces where people can take a break, some neurodivergent people may simply decide not to attend Pride at all. “Some Neurodivergent peeps may not come to Pride as they don’t feel there is an environment they consider a safe space,” he says. For Luke, the answer is clear: Pride should have room for everyone. The NeuroQueerz Calm Space aims to make that principle a reality. Luke Boss: “I didn't go to a single Pride event until I was 30” Perhaps one of the most powerful aspects of Luke's story is that he understands personally what it can feel like to be unsure about attending Pride. “I didn't go to a single Pride event until I was 30,” he reveals. The main concerns were the crowds and the fear that there would be nothing to do or nobody to speak to. That changed when Luke finally attended his first Pride in 2019. “I loved it so much it was like being on holiday,” he says. Since then, he has attended many Pride events, both alone and with other people. His advice to anyone who is considering attending but feels uncertain is to do some research beforehand and find out what facilities and support are available. And for those attending Manchester Pride, Luke has a particularly direct invitation: “If you are considering Manchester Pride, then come to us for the calm space on Saturday and/or Sunday!” The space will also feature the Pride Parade on a large screen, and, Luke notes with a smile, no wristband is required. Has the LGBTQ+ community done enough? The question of inclusion within LGBTQ+ spaces is complicated. Luke believes attitudes are improving and says he has received tremendous support from organisations including LGBT Foundation, where he volunteers. However, he has also experienced discrimination within the LGBTQ+ community because of his disability. Despite that, he says he feels considerably more comfortable in gay bars than in regular bars. For Luke, there is still work to be done. “Most Neuroqueer or LGBTQ+ organisations do have a section for this either, but it is too small and does not go far enough,” he says.“That is what Neuroqueerz is here for!” The organisation is ultimately asking the wider LGBTQ+ community to think differently about what inclusion really means. One size does not fit all For Luke, one of the most important messages of NeuroQueerz is that there is no universal solution. “One size does NOT fit all,” he says. That principle is particularly important when discussing neurodivergence because people's experiences can vary enormously. Someone might love being surrounded by thousands of people one day but find the same environment impossible the next. Another person might never need a Calm Space but still appreciate knowing one is available. The important thing is having the choice. Luke also believes that neurodivergent people should be listened to when conversations about inclusion take place. “I hope more people soon recognise this,” he says. “We are a talented and fabulous community at the end of the day.” More than a Calm Space While Manchester Village Pride provides an important opportunity for NeuroQueerz to demonstrate what a more inclusive Pride environment can look like, Luke sees the organisation's work as something much bigger. He wants people to understand that neurodivergent LGBTQ+ people aren't simply a group that needs to be accommodated. They are an important part of the LGBTQ+ community with their own experiences, talents, ideas and voices. For Luke, seeing NeuroQueerz involved in creating a calmer and more inclusive Pride experience in Manchester represents a major accomplishment. “If it wasn’t us (me and my 2 fabulous other directors) hosting this, I would be grateful there is a space I can go to at regular intervals that is just outside the gay village.” That statement perhaps sums up the importance of the Calm Space better than anything else. It isn't about separating people from Pride. It is about making sure people can stay part of Pride. “As a Neuroqueer person, I can't stress how important a safe space is, whether it's online, in person, or a gadget you can turn on and do your own thing with.” At the heart of NeuroQueerz, Luke says, are three simple but powerful ideas: Wellness. Empowerment. Belonging. And perhaps that is exactly what an inclusive Pride should be about. Manchester Village Pride is a celebration for the whole LGBTQ+ community. By providing a Calm Space, NeuroQueerz is helping demonstrate that accessibility isn't about changing Pride into something quieter or less exciting. It is about giving more people the opportunity to experience it. Whether someone spends the entire weekend celebrating, drops into the Calm Space for a short break, watches the parade from a quieter environment or simply knows that somewhere safe is available if they need it, the message is the same: There is a place for you at Pride. And that can make all the difference. The Neuroqueerz Calm Space will run across both days of Manchester Village Pride — Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th August, from 12pm to 7pm, at the Holiday Inn, Manchester City Centre, 25 Aytoun St, Manchester, M1 3DT.

MEET THE TEAM Art Director Ashley Jones Art Director Ashley Jones Art Director Ashley Jones Tech Lead Don Francis Product Manager Alexa Young Product Designer Robert Rose Customer Support Lead Kevin Nye HR Lead Lisa Driver

25 Years Since 9/11: Remembering the LGBTQ+ Lives and Stories Behind a Day That Changed the World Twenty-five years ago, on September 11, 2001, the world changed. For the LGBTQ+ community, the tragedy was not only about the lives lost that day, but also about the families, partners, friends and communities left behind — and the inequalities that suddenly became impossible to ignore. There are moments in history that divide our lives into a before and an after. For millions of people around the world, September 11, 2001, is one of those moments. The attacks on New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania claimed almost 3,000 lives and changed the course of American history. Twenty-five years later, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum is marking the anniversary by remembering the victims, survivors and responders while encouraging a new generation — many of whom were born after 9/11 — to understand its significance. But behind the statistics were individual lives. And among those lives were LGBTQ+ people. A community was grieving too On the morning of September 11, LGBTQ+ New Yorkers were experiencing the same shock, fear and devastation as everyone else. Gay men, lesbians, bisexual people and others within the LGBTQ+ community worked in the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and surrounding areas. Others were firefighters, police officers, emergency workers, medical professionals, office workers and passengers. They were sons and daughters. Brothers and sisters. Parents and friends. And they were partners. For the LGBTQ+ community, however, grief could sometimes be complicated by the fact that, in 2001, same-sex relationships did not have the same legal recognition as heterosexual marriages. That became particularly significant when families began trying to deal with the aftermath When your partner wasn't legally recognised as family In the weeks and months following the attacks, LGBTQ+ rights organisations raised concerns about the treatment of same-sex partners of people who had died. The September 11th Victim Compensation Fund had been established to provide financial assistance to people affected by the attacks. But questions quickly emerged over whether same-sex partners would receive the same recognition as legally married spouses. Documents submitted to the U.S. Department of Justice in 2001 show LGBTQ+ organisations arguing that surviving same-sex partners should be eligible for compensation and should be able to represent their deceased partners' claims. The issue was painfully simple. If two people had spent years building a life together, shared a home, finances and responsibilities, and one died in the attacks, did the absence of a marriage certificate make their loss any less real? For many LGBTQ+ people, the answer was obvious. But the law was not always so clear. In one significant case, Sheila Hein, an Army analyst who died at the Pentagon, was survived by her partner Peggy Neff, with whom she had lived for 18 years. Because their relationship was not legally recognised in Virginia, Neff initially faced barriers that a legally married spouse would not have faced. Ultimately, the Victim Compensation Fund awarded Neff more than $500,000. LGBTQ+ legal advocates described the decision as an important step forward. It was a reminder that the victims of 9/11 did not all leave behind families that fitted neatly into the legal definitions of the time. Remembering Mark Bingham Perhaps the most widely recognised LGBTQ+ victim of 9/11 is Mark Bingham. Bingham was a 31-year-old public relations executive from San Francisco and a passenger aboard United Airlines Flight 93. He was also openly gay and a member of the San Francisco Fog, a gay rugby club. The National Park Service records that Bingham was travelling for business and to attend a friend's wedding. When Flight 93 was hijacked, Bingham was among the passengers who made telephone calls to loved ones. The National Park Service's account of the flight records his call to his mother, Alice Hoagland, during the hijacking. The passengers of Flight 93 ultimately fought back against the hijackers, with the aircraft crashing into a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, preventing the plane from reaching its intended target. Bingham's story has consequently become part of the wider story of courage and resistance on 9/11. But it is important to remember him not simply as a hero of Flight 93. He was a gay man. He had friends, relationships, ambitions, a career and a community. He was part of the LGBTQ+ story of September 11. LGBTQ+ grief didn't stop at Ground Zero For LGBTQ+ people who lost partners, friends and loved ones, the aftermath of 9/11 extended far beyond the collapse of the buildings. There was grief. There were practical questions about homes, finances and possessions. There were legal questions about who could speak for a deceased partner. And there was the deeply personal question of whether the relationship they had built would be recognised by the institutions dealing with their loss. In the immediate aftermath, LGBTQ+ organisations including Lambda Legal, the Human Rights Campaign, the Empire State Pride Agenda and others pressed for greater equality within the compensation process. In the immediate aftermath, LGBTQ+ organisations including Lambda Legal, the Human Rights Campaign, the Empire State Pride Agenda and others pressed for greater equality within the compensation process. A community already familiar with loss It is also impossible to consider the LGBTQ+ experience of 9/11 without remembering the period in which it happened. The attacks took place only two decades after the Stonewall uprising had helped ignite the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. In 2001, same-sex marriage was still years away from becoming legal anywhere in the United States at the federal level. LGBTQ+ people were fighting for employment protection, relationship recognition and basic equality. The community was also carrying the enormous legacy of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. For a generation of LGBTQ+ people, loss was already something they knew all too well. 9/11 created another enormous collective trauma — one that was shared with the wider population but experienced through the particular realities of LGBTQ+ lives. The world after September 11 The consequences of 9/11 went far beyond New York. The attacks reshaped international politics, national security, travel, immigration, surveillance and public attitudes towards Muslims and people perceived to be Muslim or Middle Eastern. For LGBTQ+ people, the post-9/11 world also produced complicated conversations around identity, religion, sexuality and freedom. Some LGBTQ+ people found themselves confronting a difficult tension: how to defend LGBTQ+ rights while resisting the idea that those rights should be used to stereotype or demonise entire religious or ethnic communities. That remains an important conversation 25 years later. The legacy of 9/11 cannot be separated from the Islamophobia and discrimination experienced by Muslim communities in the years that followed. Nor should the experiences of LGBTQ+ people be reduced to a single narrative. 9/11 affected communities differently. And many people belonged to more than one of them. Twenty-five years later Today, a growing number of adults have no personal memory of September 11. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum notes that around 100 million Americans are now too young to remember the attacks themselves. That makes remembering increasingly important. But remembrance should be more than photographs of smoke rising above Manhattan or footage of the towers collapsing. It should be about people. The office worker who never came home. The firefighter who ran towards the danger. The passenger who called their family. The partner waiting for someone who would never return. The friend who suddenly became a member of a grieving family. And the communities that came together to help one another survive. For LGBTQ+ people, remembering 9/11 also means remembering those whose relationships were not always recognised by the law — even though their love, commitment and loss were every bit as real. Never forget — and remember everyone Twenty-five years after 9/11, the names of the victims remain engraved at the Memorial in Lower Manhattan. Each name represents an individual life. And each life contained a story. Some of those stories were LGBTQ+ stories. Remembering them is not about separating LGBTQ+ victims from everyone else. It is about making sure they are not lost within the history of one of the defining events of the modern era. The LGBTQ+ community has always understood the importance of remembering those who came before us. We remember through Pride. We remember through memorials. We remember through stories. And, ultimately, we remember through the lives we continue to build. Twenty-five years on, we remember September 11. We remember the nearly 3,000 people who died. We remember the survivors and first responders. We remember the families. And we remember the LGBTQ+ people whose lives were forever changed by that September morning. We remember because every life mattered. We remember because every love mattered. And we remember because history belongs to all of us. This article is published by g10 group to mark the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.

You’ve built a strong presence as a model and pageant titleholder — what first inspired you to step into the world of LGBTQ+ representation and visibility? What inspired me is that watching RuPaul drag race, seeing all the queens from different cultures and being able to be themselves and tell their stories on how different cultures accepts the LGBTQ+ communities and how inspiring every story is. Also the modelling industry and the pageant industry works with a lot of gay men, watching gay men in Pageantry, modelling and how they strut the stage, it really inspired me to do the same today. I believe that being yourself is more beautiful and to be able to show the world that you are brave and strong with being your unique self. I also wanted to show young gay men that it's ok not to accepted because you are not alone as there is others who struggles like you and that you don't need to hide for yourself who you are. As i have a learning disability also, so i wanted to challenge my self that my disability is my ability to shine today. Winning the titles of Mr Diamond Ireland and Mr Shining Light UK Forever is a major achievement. What did those moments mean to you personally and professionally? Those moments that is something I will always carry with me and being able to be my self on stage and wear my evening gown is the most memorable moments of my life, i wouldn't change it for the world, its not just achievement, it is a long lasting life time memory. As I almost cried because I could step on stage and shine the unique person i am today. How has your experience in the modelling industry shaped your confidence and identity as an LGBTQ+ individual? My experiences in the modeling industry has shaped, my confidence and identity in so many ways, they made me very individual, they made me stand out, I have been very clear and it shows, I have been bold on my choices on my style and creative ideas as it shows on the photos and poses that I do. I'm very confident in my own skin and will not turn away from any challenges and not scared to be myself and proud to be an LGBTQ and I show these into my work and my confidence just grows every single time In a photoshoot and I like to stand strong as an LGBTQ+ and be confident in my own images and for others that feels the same way and that needs confidence I hope to inspire every young gay guy out there. With all the experiences in the modeling industry It has given me confidence to want inspire in many individuals. Representation matters deeply in media and fashion. What changes would you still like to see within the UK modelling and entertainment industries? I would really love to see more paid jobs for the freelance models, seeing more short models on the runway. Giving more opportunities for people to shine. To have more queer representations both modelling industry and entertainment industry. I also want to see more story's of queer individuals on tv, commercials and interviews. Being in entertainment industry we want not just a story but a person who has came from different background not just to inspire others but show as individuals that their not the only ones going through what you go through in life. Social media plays a huge role in personal branding today. How do you balance authenticity with maintaining a public image online? I've always stayed true to my self by just being honest to all the things I post on social media, not just being professional but being authentic me also showing it all in my images on how I create my photos and videos that's all me just being myself . I don't always keep it professional because I'm a human being too and i like to be authentic to myself. Is what you see and is what you get and I'm proud of that and post what's on your mind and how you feel. Have you faced any challenges or discrimination during your journey, and how did you overcome them? I was discriminated as a model by a photographer saying that my work was too gay and the photographer didn't want to work with me. I didn't let that take my shine away so I continued to to show others that breaking boundaries and being unique in your own creative way was more beautiful, I stand up for myself and what I believed in because people's opinions they don't matter as long your happy for who you are and what you create in your platform. Not many agree for the things you do but as long other's believes In you and they get inprsied by you then don't let others opinions affect you because you make a difference in someone's lives. What message do you hope young LGBTQ+ people take away when they see your work and achievements? I want the young LGBTQ+ to take away from this is to never be afraid to be yourself, to challenge yourself and be confident in your own skin. Stand up for what you believe in because this will help you along the way with the direction you want to go to. Always just be honest to all the people you meet and work with. Do a lot of research and explore different types of genre in modelling. In Pageantry find the right pageant system that suits your personality and how you want yourself to be represented. Never let anyone dim your light, always just keep moving forward and surround yourself with good people who truly accepts you for who you are. Also take sometime for yourself to look after your own mental health and find to recharge yourself and don't burn out. Beyond modelling and pageantry, are there any advocacy projects, charities, or community initiatives you’re passionate about supporting? This year I have won the title Mr Diamond Ireland 2026 and I'm truly excited to be able to fundraise for my chosen charity which is The Rainbow Project which is a charity that supports lives in the LGBTQ+ community in Northern Ireland . The charity that is close to my heart and I truly care for, as a gay men supporting this charity and being able to make a impact and raise that awareness in the community is something I truly value because as part of the LGBTQ+ community we face so many challenges and discrimination in different parts of the world . The service they provide for the community Co-cultural counselling •Hate Crime Advocacy •Free sexual health testing and advice •Trans Swimming Project •Cancer Champions •Gay Ethnic Community •Campaigning for a better Northern Ireland for our LGBTQ+ community The LGBTQ+ community in the UK continues to evolve culturally and politically. What conversations do you think are most important right now? While the LGTBQA community within the UK and Ireland has developed a rich community culturally, there is still work to be done politically. While we have grown past the shadows of the past, and have been accepted by the wider community, there is still political work to be done, particularly supporting the Trans community. We need to be politically active and more politically aware of the struggles our Trans friends still face. We cannot sit by while bigoted views regarding puberty blockers and antiquated views on biological sex still pose real threats to their true identities. Hate crimes against Trans individuals and against our whole community still loom large, especially here in Northern Ireland. It’s important that we all continue to work with local and national advocacy groups and political parties until we are all safe from prejudice. Together we can work to not just have pride in ourselves, but pride in our shared community, and pride in the future of our country. Looking ahead, what are your next goals — whether in modelling, media, advocacy, or personal growth? My goal is to work hard on my Pageant journey, make a lot of appearances and to raise awareness that being your unique self is more beautiful and raises as much money for my chosen charity before i go to the international stage next year to complete for an international title and to represent Ireland, Northern Ireland and the Philippines in the international stage also in modelling to keep breaking those boundaries and keep creating ideas that brings out the best of me.

Bare, Brilliant and Body Positive: The Health & Fitness Benefits of a Naked Beach for LGBTQ+ People There is something wonderfully liberating about leaving your clothes, your inhibitions and your worries behind — and for LGBTQ+ people, a day at a naturist beach can offer much more than simply getting an all-over tan. For many LGBTQ+ people, body image can be complicated. We live in a culture where social media, dating apps and popular culture can sometimes create unrealistic expectations about what a supposedly attractive body should look like. Muscular, toned, smooth, youthful and perfectly groomed can sometimes feel like the unofficial LGBTQ+ body standard. A naturist beach can offer a refreshing change. Rather than seeing carefully selected bodies on a screen, you see real bodies: different shapes, sizes, ages, colours and abilities. And importantly, you can begin to realise that bodies don't have to look perfect to be enjoyed, celebrated and accepted. Research into naturism has found associations between naturist activity, more positive body image, higher self-esteem and greater life satisfaction. Research has also found that communal naked activity can reduce anxiety about how our bodies look to other people. So, what can a day on a naked beach actually do for your health and fitness? 1. It can help you become more comfortable with your body Perhaps the biggest benefit is psychological rather than physical. For some LGBTQ+ people, particularly those who have spent years feeling that they don't fit conventional ideas of attractiveness, being naked around other people can initially feel daunting. But that can change. On a genuine naturist beach, nudity is normal. You're not expected to have a six-pack, a perfectly flat stomach, a particular body shape or a certain age. Research by psychologist Keon West found that participation in naturist activities was associated with improved body image and self-esteem, with the researchers suggesting that seeing a wider variety of non-idealised bodies may play a role. For LGBTQ+ people, that can be particularly powerful. Instead of asking "Do I look good enough?", the mindset can gradually become "This is my body — and I'm comfortable in it." 2. Walking becomes exercise without feeling like exercise A trip to a naturist beach doesn't have to involve a gym session. Walking along the shoreline, exploring the coastline or strolling through the dunes can provide a surprisingly good low-impact workout. Beach walking can be more demanding than walking on a flat pavement because sand shifts beneath your feet. Add a swim in the sea and you've got an enjoyable combination of cardiovascular exercise and resistance work. And because you're doing it as part of a day out, it doesn't necessarily feel like traditional exercise. For anyone who finds gyms intimidating or repetitive, a beach can be a much more enjoyable environment to stay active. 3. Swimming gives your whole body a workout Swimming is one of the easiest ways to turn a day at the beach into a fitness session. It works multiple muscle groups while providing cardiovascular exercise, and the water provides resistance without the same impact on joints that some land-based activities can involve. Whether you're swimming lengths, playing in the water or simply taking a leisurely dip, you're moving your body while enjoying the surroundings. Just remember that the sea can be unpredictable. Swim within your ability, pay attention to local conditions and use designated swimming areas where available. 4. It can take the pressure out of body comparison For LGBTQ+ people, body comparison can be particularly intense. Dating apps and social media can put an endless stream of carefully selected photographs in front of us. It's easy to compare yourself with somebody else's best angle, best lighting and best photograph. Naturist environments can provide a different perspective. You see bodies as they actually are — including stomachs, scars, stretch marks, body hair, wrinkles, cellulite and everything else that makes a human body a human body. A 2022 study involving thousands of participants found that naturist activity was associated with greater body appreciation and lower social physique anxiety. That doesn't mean one trip to a beach will magically eliminate body insecurities. But for some people, repeated exposure to ordinary, unedited bodies can help make body diversity feel normal. 5. Sunshine and fresh air can improve the experience There is something naturally restorative about spending time outdoors. Being beside the sea gives you fresh air, natural light and an opportunity to step away from screens and everyday pressures. Research reviewing the relationship between exposure to nature and body image has found evidence suggesting that spending time in natural environments can contribute to healthier body-image outcomes, although the researchers also highlight limitations in the existing evidence. Just don't confuse being naked with being protected from the sun. Nudity does not make you immune to sunburn. 6. It can be good for your mental wellbeing A beach day provides an opportunity to slow down. Walking, swimming, sitting beside the sea, talking to friends and simply switching off can all help create a sense of relaxation. For LGBTQ+ people, a welcoming naturist environment can also provide something particularly valuable: the opportunity to relax without feeling that you need to hide your identity or conform to somebody else's expectations. That sense of freedom can be as important as the physical activity. 7. It can create a stronger sense of community Naturism isn't necessarily about being alone. Many naturist beaches attract people who simply enjoy the freedom of being clothes-free in a natural environment. For LGBTQ+ visitors, some beaches and resorts have also developed reputations for being particularly welcoming to gay and LGBTQ+ travellers. Maspalomas in Gran Canaria is a particularly well-known example, with travel guidance specifically noting its popularity with LGBTQIA+ visitors. Of course, LGBTQ+ people are not the only people who use naturist beaches. The important thing is to respect the environment and the people around you. 8. You don't have to be young, slim or muscular Perhaps this is the most important message. You don't need to look like an Instagram fitness influencer to enjoy a naked beach. You don't need a six-pack. You don't need a gym-toned body. You don't need to remove every body hair. You don't need to look a particular age. You just need to be comfortable being yourself. And that can be a surprisingly empowering experience. g10 Fitness Top 5 LGBTQ+-Friendly Nude Beaches in the UK & Europe There are countless clothing-optional beaches across Europe, so choosing five isn't easy. We've focused on destinations that combine naturist appeal with accessibility, scenery and a reputation for being welcoming to LGBTQ+ travellers. 1. Brighton Naturist Beach — England 🇬🇧 Brighton Naturist Beach It seems only right that Brighton makes the number-one spot. Brighton is one of Europe's best-known LGBTQ+ destinations, and its naturist beach has a special place in British beach history. The beach officially opened as a naturist beach in 1980, making it the UK's first public naturist beach. It is located at the eastern end of Brighton beach, approximately a mile from Brighton Pier towards Brighton Marina. For LGBTQ+ visitors, the combination is hard to beat: a famously inclusive city, the English Channel, a relaxed beach atmosphere and the freedom to enjoy the seaside without clothes. It's also relatively easy to reach compared with many remote naturist beaches. Our verdict: ★★★★★ Best for: LGBTQ+ visitors wanting their first naturist beach experience 2. Maspalomas — Gran Canaria 🇪🇸 Maspalomas Beach If Brighton is Britain's naturist LGBTQ+ favourite, Maspalomas is arguably one of Europe's most recognisable destinations for LGBTQ+ beach culture. The enormous beach and famous Maspalomas dunes provide an extraordinary backdrop, while the area has long been popular with LGBTQ+ holidaymakers. The naturist section is located around the dunes, with both clothing-optional and textile areas nearby. TUI specifically highlights Maspalomas as a popular destination with the LGBTQIA+ community. The climate also makes it particularly attractive for anyone looking for a warm-weather naturist break. Our verdict: ★★★★★ Best for: Sun, sea, dunes and LGBTQ+ nightlife. 3. Cala de l'Home Mort — Sitges, Spain 🇪🇸 Cala de l'Home Mort Just outside Sitges, one of Europe's most famous LGBTQ+ resort towns, Cala de l'Home Mort is a secluded beach with a long association with gay beach culture and naturism. It's considerably more rustic than Brighton or Maspalomas, which is part of its appeal. Getting there involves a walk, but the reward is a more secluded Mediterranean setting away from the main resort beaches. Sitges itself provides an excellent combination of beaches, restaurants, bars, nightlife and LGBTQ+ culture, making it a particularly appealing destination for a longer trip. Our verdict: ★★★★☆ Best for: LGBTQ+ travellers who prefer a more secluded Mediterranean beach. 4. Vera Playa — Almería, Spain 🇪🇸 Vera Playa Vera Playa is one of Spain's best-known naturist destinations and is particularly appealing if you want more than simply a few hours on a beach. The area has a long-established naturist culture, with accommodation and facilities catering to visitors who want a clothing-optional holiday. It offers a different experience from the LGBTQ+ party atmosphere of Maspalomas or Sitges: more relaxed, more traditional and focused on naturism as a lifestyle. Our verdict: ★★★★☆ Best for: A relaxed naturist holiday rather than a single beach day. 5. Cap d'Agde — France 🇫🇷 Cap d'Agde Naturist Village Cap d'Agde is in a category of its own. Rather than simply having a naturist beach, the famous Naturist Village is essentially an entire holiday community built around clothing-optional living. The beach is a major attraction, but visitors can also find accommodation, restaurants, shops and other facilities within the naturist area. Cap d'Agde has been one of Europe's most famous naturist destinations for decades. It's worth remembering that the atmosphere can vary considerably, and visitors should check the current rules and expectations before travelling. Our verdict: ★★★★☆ Best for: Experienced naturists looking for a full naturist holiday experience. The LGBTQ+ Case for Going Bare For LGBTQ+ people, going to a naked beach doesn't have to be about nudity for nudity's sake. It can be about freedom. Freedom from clothes. Freedom from body comparison. Freedom from worrying about whether you have the "right" body. Freedom to swim, walk, relax and enjoy nature. And perhaps most importantly, freedom to realise that there isn't one correct way for an LGBTQ+ body to look. Whether you're a gym regular, a weekend walker, a swimmer, someone trying to become more active or simply someone who wants to spend an afternoon beside the sea, a naturist beach can offer an enjoyable way to combine physical activity, relaxation and body positivity. You don't have to arrive looking confident. Sometimes you become confident simply by giving yourself permission to be yourself. A few naturist beach essentials Before heading off, remember the basics: Take plenty of sunscreen and reapply it regularly. Bring water and stay hydrated. Take a towel to sit on. Check local beach rules before stripping off. Respect other people's privacy — photography of strangers is not appropriate. Don't assume nudity means sexual activity. Naturist beaches are social and recreational spaces. Keep your physical activity within your ability, particularly when swimming in the sea. If you're new to naturism, start somewhere you're likely to feel comfortable and don't feel pressured to do anything you're not ready for. The ultimate fitness goal might not be a six-pack. It might simply be feeling comfortable in the body you already have. This article is for general wellbeing and lifestyle information and isn't a substitute for medical or fitness advice. Naturism isn't a treatment for mental or physical health conditions, although research suggests it may have positive associations with body image and wellbeing

You’ve moved from Australia to London as an emerging queer pop artist—how has that transition shaped your sound and your identity as a songwriter? Growing up in a racist and backwards country like Australia, I often felt very suppressed and shut out from the world. Moving to London, I got to experience being a gay man in a way I never knew was possible. It was like finally seeing in colour! And that's allowed me to write about experiences that are much richer but also from a place of loving myself. Your music often blends vulnerability with high-energy pop production. How do you balance emotional storytelling with creating tracks that are built for the dance floor? When writing, I always prioritise writing lyrics that allow for connection, after all that's what music is about! And the vibe of the song will organically show itself as I develop the song. So even though I may be writing a dance floor track, I often still have lyrics that will evoke emotions and couldn't imagine writing without doing so. As a queer artist, how important is visibility and representation in your work, and how do you intentionally (or unintentionally) reflect that in your songwriting? While telling stories about being a person of colour in my work is important, one of the most crucial aspects of my writing is showing that I am a multi-faceted person. So although I'll write about feeling invisible, I'll still write about feeling sexy. I am not a single faceted person and my stories are never soley focussed about one aspect of my silly gay life! Who are some of your biggest musical or cultural influences right now, and how are they showing up in your current creative direction? Currently I am stanning Rita Ora and Dua Lipa - these two girlies I feel embody the pop music of the noughties. Pop music has evolved so much but I just can't let go of the structures and melodies before the era of TikTok. So in that sense, I still write to traditional structures of the songs that I grew up to. I just loved boy bands and girl groups so much! What has been the most challenging part of building your career independently in the UK music scene so far? I can't name just one because the whole journey is a challenge. Such as an over-saturated market, AI making music and taking space from real human artists and having to rebuild after the pandemic. The biggest challenge though (and I appreciate this isn't specfic to the UK scene) is the constant demand to create social media content when making music is already so consuming. Lastly, the cost of living crisis has impacted live music; people are spending less on entertainment, resulting in fewer performance opportunities. Your new single Madrid (Dance All Summer) is out now—what’s the story behind it, and what inspired its sound and energy? To be honest, I was due for a summer song. I had been performing a previous single, "Chasing Highs," to death! The sound and energy were inspired by my trips to Spain and time spent on the beaches there. I wanted to evoke that distinct feeling when the air smells different, watching the beautiful Spanish men and their inherent cultural link to music. “Madrid (Dance All Summer)” feels like it carries a strong sense of escapism and movement. What does “summer” represent to you in this track? For me, it means being with people I love, with complete freedom to express myself. I look up at the sky and immerse myself in the beauty of the life I've built to lead to this moment on the dance floor. For me, summer in Madrid represents fully giving myself to that moment. How does your songwriting process usually begin—do you start with lyrics, melody, production ideas, or lived experience? I'm sure many artists say this but it changes from song to song. Sometimes I'll hear a new song and want to emulate a similar vibe, other times, I'll start with a hook, and sometimes I'll start with a story. But wherever it starts, I will always want the lyrics, melody, or structure to have a sense of addictiveness. What do you hope queer listeners specifically take away from your music and your journey as an artist? I want my queer listeners to feel their own unique beauty when they listen to my music. Whether it's sexy, imperfect, brave, or insecure - the whole rainbow of emotions is beautiful and I want them to see that in themselves. Looking ahead, what’s next for you after this release—are there themes, collaborations, or sounds you’re excited to explore in 2026 and beyond? I have a few demos already in the works, currently thinking of making an EP called 'Wonderboy' which depicts a more vulnerable side to me but my music always evolves as I make it so we shall see! I'm just excited to be making more delicious pop music!

For anyone discovering you for the first time, how would you describe Valium Ssky and the world you’ve created around your persona? I created my drag persona around the fact that Queerness has always been villainised in the media, so I reclaimed that power and created “Valium Ssky, the self proclaimed purple supreme witch of South African drag” She’s a blend of 90’s horror icons like Elvira and Disney villains like Ursula and Maleficent with my own personal touch. This allowed me to create an entire fantasy world surrounding my drag persona, a backstory that I’ve been writing and would one day hopefully be able to release to the public as well What first inspired you to get into drag and performance, and was there a particular moment when you knew this was something you wanted to pursue seriously? I was around 16 years old when I first got introduced to the world of drag by some close friends. At that time season 4 of Rupauls drag race was airing and I immediately knew that this would be something I would like to pursue. So I started creating my persona in my head and at 18 when I finished school, I started experimenting slowly but surely, now 12 years later I’ve grown my brand to the point where I perform consistently and recently released my debut single “Valium Ssky - SAY MY NAME” Your name and persona certainly make an impact — where did “Valium Ssky” come from, and what does the name mean to you? When I started experimenting with drag at age 16 (2012) I had a different name planned, originally I was “Cyber Candy”, “Candy” for short. However that didn’t feel right to me. It was a journey, but I was very involved with the alt queer scene and listened to now controversial queer music. One artist had a song called “beauty killer” with the line “Doll eyes looked up to Valium coloured Skies” and I took Valium Ssky from there, Valium like the anti depressant and Ssky like the vodka, except I have two S’s and not two Y’s for trademark purposes became my calling card and it stuck. How would you describe your style and aesthetic, and how has that evolved since you first started performing? I would describe my style as Alternative queer with a splash of glamour. As I mentioned before I was very involved with the alternative queer scene and inspired by icons like Elvira, Divine, Vampira etc along with Disney villains like Ursula, Malificent, the Evil Queen and Cruella Deville. So I mixed all that together and created a persona that originally was very “club kid” until I evolved over the years into a more glamorous version of myself. Drag can be both hugely empowering and incredibly demanding. What has performing taught you about confidence, identity and being comfortable in your own skin? Personally I believe when you’re passionate about something you sometimes forget about how demanding it can be. The hours of prep work and all the money spent on outfits and makeup feel worth it when you’re on that stage and see the smiles from the audience and hear their applause. As a non binary person, drag has allowed me to both express my masculine side in everyday life and my feminine / creative side on stage and I’m so grateful to be able to do that professionally. In many ways, drag is a career that saved my life in so many ways. How important is LGBTQ+ representation to you, particularly at a time when queer culture and visibility continue to be debated and challenged? Drag to me has and will always be a form of protest against those that believe Lgbtqi+ people don’t deserve the right to exist and express themselves and I believe that representation and visibility is now more important than ever. My stance has always been that if I can go out the house in full drag, you can be yourself and be proud to be yourself no matter who you are. I’ve personally been pushing to create queer safe events now for the past year at generally straight venues, whether that be a drag show or hosting a battle of the bands etc. I aim to show people that we can co exist and that our spaces / events are safe spaces for all, if you respect us, we respect you and we are all human at the end of the day. Wrapping up this question, Lgbtqi+ rights are human rights and representation and visibility matters now more than ever. Show up and show out because without knowing it, you can change a life and that matters. Who are the performers, artists or LGBTQ+ figures who have inspired you, and what is it about them that resonates with you? I’ve already mentioned the horror hostesses and Disney villains, so other than that. I’ve been inspired like any other queer person by some pop divas like Lady Gaga and Madonna, their ability to continually reinvent themselves and the way that their performances are pure art brought to life really resonates with me. Then obviously some mainstream drag personalities like Alaska, Bob the drag queen, the Vivian (rest in peace), Manila Luzon, to name a few have inspired me over the years to push forward and hone my craft. But my favourite artist at the moment would be Ashnikko, her music and personality really resonates with me and inspires me, also, we were born on the exact same day 19 February 1996. Beyond the glamour and performance, what do you think people misunderstand about the reality of being a drag artist today? I feel like allot of younger drag performers have this misconception that drag is all fun and spotlights and don’t really realise the hard work, long hours and resilience it takes to actually be a working drag queen. It’s not always easy and it’s very political at the end of the day, also since drag has become mainstream it seems like everyone has become a critic on the matter. Good drag is not always what you see on reality TV, sometimes it’s much better in person. So support local drag. If you could use your platform to change one thing about the way LGBTQ+ people are seen or represented, what would it be? Coming from a still mostly conservative country, I always strive to show that at the end of the day, people can get to the point of understanding that we are all just people in the same pressure cooker we call live and that we all are fighting the same act of survival every day. LGBTQIA+ people just want to co exist as equals in today’s society and there are way more serious issues in the world than obsessing whether someone fits your norm. It’s sometimes sad to think that through misconceptions we are classified along people that truly harm society while most of us just aim to spread love and light. Looking ahead, what can we expect from Valium Ssky — and what is the dream project or opportunity you’d love to make happen? Right now I’m focusing on my music career along with creating safe spaces for all of us to come together and enjoy a good drag show. I am hoping to continue releasing a few more songs this year, including some very fun collaborations that I’m already working on, so watch this space. In a complete fantasy situation I would love to be seen by my favourite artist Ashnikko and to one day be able to collab with her. (So if anyone reading this knows someone, please make it happen) or to one day get to the level where I’m booked internationally would also be a dream come true for someone that in their early years never thought any of what I’m already doing could be a reality. Closing off I’d like to thank the g10 group for this incredible interview and for these amazing questions that gave me the opportunity to share my thoughts and experiences. To those reading this remember to stream “Valium Ssky - SAY MY NAME” now available on all streaming platforms.

You've travelled from Australia to build your career in Europe. How has that journey shaped your sound, and what have you discovered about the different dance music cultures along the way? It's reshaped everything, honestly. Australian club culture gave me my foundation — that sense of freedom and community on the dancefloor. But European audiences listen differently; there's a depth of house music history here that sharpens you as an artist. I've found that the emotional language of the dancefloor translates everywhere, even when the cultural details differ. That universality is something I've come to really value. You've spoken about house music as a force that connects people. What is it about house that creates such a powerful sense of unity on the dancefloor? There's something about the repetition and the groove — it pulls people into the same rhythm, literally and emotionally. House music doesn't ask you to perform or impress anyone; it just asks you to move and connect. That simplicity is what dissolves the barriers between strangers and turns a room full of individuals into something collective. The dancefloor has long been a sanctuary for LGBTQ+ communities. What responsibility, if any, do DJs have in protecting and nurturing those spaces today? A real one. The dancefloor has always been one of the few places where queer people could exist completely freely, and that's not something to take for granted — especially now. As a DJ, I see it as my job to protect that energy: to read the room, hold space, and make sure the set itself reflects safety, freedom, and joy rather than just entertainment. Your sets often feel like they're telling a story rather than simply playing tracks. How do you approach creating an emotional journey for your audience? I think about a set the way you'd think about a narrative arc — tension, build, release, reflection. I'm reading the crowd constantly and adjusting in real time, but I always want there to be a sense of movement, not just a string of good tracks. The three-deck mashups help with that — they let me create transitions and emotional shifts that feel unexpected but intentional whilst providing that future nostalgic feeling that takes people back to a time that they fondly remember. Many people describe dancing as a spiritual or healing experience. Have you ever witnessed a moment behind the decks that reminded you just how transformative music can be? Many times, but there's always a specific kind of moment — where you look out and see someone completely lost in the music, eyes closed, hands-in-the-air, just present. You can feel when a track has reached past the surface and touched something real in people. Those are the moments that remind you why this work matters and its not just pushing buttons and turning knobs! House music was born from Black, queer, and underground communities. How important is it for today's artists to honour those roots while continuing to evolve the genre? I think it’s essential. House music exists because of those communities, and that history isn't a footnote — it's the foundation of everything the genre has become. As artists evolve the sound, I think it's important to stay conscious of where it came from and who created the culture we get to be part of, rather than treating it as something disconnected from its origins. As an Australian living and performing across Europe and the UK, what differences have you noticed in club culture, and what lessons do you think each scene could learn from the other? The geography really does shape the culture. In Europe and the UK, you've got Ibiza, Amsterdam, and decades of house music history right on your doorstep — labels like Defected and Glitterbox have built entire movements around that proximity, and audiences have grown up immersed in it. There's a real appetite for discovery; people come out wanting to hear something new. Australia's distance from that ecosystem creates a different relationship with the music. Commercial radio plays a bigger role in shaping what people want to hear on a night out, so there's often a preference for familiarity over exploration. I understand why — without that constant exposure to the wider house scene, it's harder to build the same culture of discovery. If anything, I'd love to see more of that European appetite for new sounds find its way into Australian clubs — there's so much incredible music being made that deserves a wider audience there too. The electronic music world is changing rapidly with social media, streaming, and AI. What do you believe will always remain irreplaceable about the shared experience of a live dancefloor? The physical, collective presence of it. No algorithm or screen can replicate the feeling of being in a room where everyone's nervous system is synced to the same rhythm. That shared, embodied experience is something technology can amplify but never actually recreate. Pride celebrations are often filled with music, joy, and community. What does Pride mean to you personally, and how does that influence the energy you bring to your performances? Pride is about visibility and unapologetic joy — being fully yourself without needing to explain it. But what I think about just as much is belonging, and making sure that belonging extends to everyone in the room, including our allies. The dancefloor works best when it doesn't feel like a space you have to qualify for — when straight friends, family, and allies who show up to celebrate with us feel just as woven into he energy as anyone else. That's something I try to carry into every Pride set. It's not about creating an exclusive moment; it's about creating a genuinely inclusive one, where the joy and freedom we as a community have always found on the dancefloor is something everyone in the room gets to feel part of. That's when Pride is at its most powerful — when belonging isn't conditional, it's just the atmosphere of the whole night. If someone stepped onto one of your dancefloors carrying the weight of the world, what would you hope they felt by the time your final track faded out? Held, even if just for those hours. I'd want them to leave feeling like they'd been part of something, like whatever they walked in carrying had space to loosen its grip, even briefly. That's the quiet power of a good night — it doesn't fix anything, but it reminds you that release and connection are still possible. Finally, what's next for DJ Du Jour? Are there any upcoming releases, collaborations, or performances you'd like the g10 Group audience to know about? There's new music on the way, building on the direction I set with "You See Me," along with a growing run of performances across Europe this season. I'm especially focused on continuing to show up in queer and Pride spaces — those rooms mean the most to me, and that's where I want to keep deepening my presence.