I follow an active sports routine and have always had a keen interest in art. In my formative years I wrestled and enjoyed athletics, fitness cycling and long-distance running. My mother was an artist who had studied graphic design, and I can remember my enjoyment while watching her doing her projects.
I dreamt about entering the arena of art, specifically, the art of dance. But then the travel bug bit me and I decided to go to the United ÂKingdom to experience the world before Âfollowing a single path. Travel has always been an interest of mine — different countries and different Âcultures.
Music is also something in which I have found meaning. Beyond the Âmelody something is said, layered in lyrical content, about the human condition. I particularly enjoy Alexis Jordan among the evergreens that sneak up on me.
While studying I discovered the world of cosmetics and today I still enjoy the fun of fashion and make-up, and the internal confidence it teaches.
The Mr Gay South Africa 2010 experience started with regional finals and then a cruise to Mozambique. It was a delight from beginning to end, and in the process I learnt a great deal. The participation was already a win.
Friends across the globe
Soon after that we set off for Manila in the Philippines where the Mr Gay World Âcontest was held. It is a country of colour, vibrancy and friendship. My Mr Gay World experience has been beyond description. You make friends from across the globe — eloquent and talented individuals who carry the pride of their countries as well as valuable insights into social issues.
Each trip has brought different Âlessons. In Rome (for EuroPride) I experienced the passion for detail in life, design, art, architecture and food.
Deep family bonds I Âwitnessed so often at great-hearted Italian Âdinners. I bought pizza from a man who looked like he had stepped off the ramps of a Milan fashion show. I got to see Lady Gaga perform live and gave an inspiring speech on Âlesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex rights.
Sao Paulo, Brazil, awakened my love of everything hip — the nightlife is one that I have never Âexperienced before. We danced the night away while, Âfaraway in the United States, the State of New York celebrated marriage equality for the gay Âcommunity.
In Canada I experienced the Âcombined pleasure of physical Âactivity and mental stimulation. The Outgames event I attended was accompanied by a human-rights Âconference. But home is my favourite destination.
The thing I miss most when I am away is South African food. I love everything from peanut butter sandwiches with banana to braais. I love baked cheesecake from Tashas.
Romantic soul
I enjoy romance and comedy. I am touched by a tender kiss between Ryan Gosling and Rachael ÂMcAdams. I am drawn to stirring evocations of an adventurous life: Ewan McGregor walking down a road singing Roxanne while a tango is being danced with amazing precision by talented dancers in the background. I was stopped by the Brokeback Mountain kiss and nearly died of laughter in Death at a Funeral.
But whereas I enjoy movies as a way to escape, I like to read with more depth: Bertrand Russel’s The Conquest of Happiness and AC ÂGrayling’s The Good Book: A ÂHumanist Bible.
For now, I am looking forward to two blissful months at home; after that, possibly, new destinations. I intend to devote myself to local Âprojects and my pursuits as a total glee addict.
Professional make-up artist and hair stylist Francois Nel holds the titles of Mr Gay South Africa 2010 and Mr Gay World 2011. South Africa will be hosting Mr Gay World in 2012. Entries for Mr Gay SA 2012 close on August 15 and entry forms are available at www.mrgaysa.com. Read Nel’s blog at francoisnelmrgaysa2010.wordpress.com