GNI MAG ISSUE 62 - PRIDE 2024

GNIMAG

Blu Hydrangea

From Hillsborough to Hollywood and all that’s in-between

ADAM GARCiA

Movies, TV, and Stage; he’s done it all

SOLO KITTEN

Natasha Hamilton’s much awaited solo venture from Atomic Kitten

Calum Scott

He’s not dancing on his own anymore, find out more inside

MAYOR MICKY

Belfast’s first openly gay mayor

A LUXURY SHOPPING EXPERIENCE IN THE HEART OF BELFAST

Credits

Daniel May Editor & Director

daniel@gnimag.com

Pauline Fitzpartick Commercial Executive

Joanne McKeever Commercial Assistant

Tony Day Design

Columnists

Connor Mills / Xand / Gavyn Andrews / Danny Malone / Gary Campion / Martin Kearney / The Gourmet Boys / Martin Murray / Paul Mc Allistar / Scott Aldred / Ellise Richards / Tailor Maid / Martin Murray / Megane Herrick

Thanks to:

Blu Hydrangea / Natasha Hamiliton / Adam Garcia / Garry Duffy / Calum Scott / Jason Cancino / Delishus O’Tool / Jason Cancino / Jessica Hammond / Jeff Dorta / Larraa White / Micky Murray / Matt Cullen / Leanne K & Leanne M / Mighty Hoopla / Maritime Mile / Primark / The Four Seasons / The Rainbow Project / Stonewall / London Pride /JIN / Positive Life / Pillo Hotel / Lunns / Tudor / Clean Co / COC Oil / Host Talent Group / Of A Vision Management / Weller Media Agency / Project Publicity / GOH / Chuff Media / Halestorm PR / 1 Vision PR / LK Communication and those who submitted content.

Danny Malone Ellise Richards

Gary Campion Gourmet Boys

Martin Kearney

Paul McAllistar

Martin Murray

Tailor Maid Scott Aldred Xand

An intro

I have been vocal about my parenting journey, the road has not been easy in fact it has been more challenging than I imagined though also more fulfilling and rewarding.

cover and just perfect for Pride. We chatted about Drag Race, Dancing with the Stars, Brand Deals and so much more, it is truly great to see this local queen turn global. We love you Blu.

IT IS SUCH A PLEASURE TO GET CHATTING TO THIS QUEEN! I CAN’T THINK OF ANOTHER WHO CAN BOAST BEING ON UK DRAG RACE, WINNING U.K V THE WORLD, AND BEING A RUNNER UP ON DANCING WITH THE STARS, WE ARE REFERRING OF COURSE TO THE ONE AND ONLY BLU HYDRANGEA.

For any readers unfamiliar, let’s go right back, where did you grow up and would you say you had a typical childhood?

I was born in the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast and lived in Hillsborough all of my life. I didn’t like it whenever I was younger because I thought it was full of old people, but now I love it because it is nice and quiet and I am the ‘Queen of Hillsborough’. Lol. I was pretty much a good two shoes in school and at around the age of 11 I discovered Drag Race. I would watch it at 1% volume at night and would be obsessed with this thing. I remember running into my mum and saying “Mum, what is this?” And she would say “It’s a school night, go to bed” but I just fell into this world.

However, I still kept up with my studies, I was Head Boy at school but I just had this notion for drag. My family are a pretty average Northern Irish family, they were a bit funny about certain religions, sexuality and gender so I still felt like I had to be in the closet. However, I went to university, found my partner, and he helped me come out and my family have been perfect about everything. I couldn’t have asked for better parents in terms of acceptance.

Have you any other siblings? Yes, I have a sister.

Did you ever dress up in mum, siblings clothes and makeup?

My sister would always play the male characters in things and I would always play the female characters. I remember we used to do ‘Hairspray’ and I would be Edna and she would be Tracy. We used to do ‘High School Musical’, she would be Ryan and I would be Sharpay. It was very cute! Then, when I came out to my mum she said “I really did not expect that”. I have always been flamboyant but it just took her by surprise, but she is my biggest supporter now. When she is having a few Bacardi’s in the living room I can hear her watching Drag Race!

At what age did you start getting properly into Drag and was there anyone specific who inspired you? I never thought that I would actually do it, but I did love it because I watched it and was obsessed with it. I used to draw all of the Queens and was just so intrigued by these

people who were able to live their best lives whereas I unfortunately didn’t feel like I could be in that situation. But as I said I found my partner and I knew Uni wasn’t for me but I was so good in school that everyone just expected it of me. I tried to push through the first year and it just didn’t work out so I dropped out and my partner signed me up for a make-up course without me even knowing. I went to a trial and they took me on and I started make-up and then make-up led to hair and I started to want to be on stage and that’s pretty much where it all started.

No regrets?

No. My first ever performance was in the Maverick on a Sunday night. Rusty and Roxy used to do a competition and that was my first ever time on stage and I never looked back after that. I loved it.

Blu then to Blu now, what would you say has changed the most for you?

I am way less naive and far more confident. Back then, I do remember loving being on the stage and I was doing it two or three nights per week in the Maverick. However, I had never spoke on a microphone, never told jokes, I would meet and greet customers and do my little numbers and that was it. But Drag is so much more than that, especially on the scale of Ru Paul’s Drag Race. Even on Season 1 which I watched back last night - because it is just lovely memories - I am so shy, like a little mouse in the corner. When I do come off with something it’s wild, I don’t know what I was doing on that show half of the time… but now I feel like I am definitely a well rounded character and that is thanks to the people and opportunities that I have had to work with since the show including Davina, Baga and Vivienne - they are like powerhouses and know how to have the audience at the palm of their hand, it has definitely made me want to step up and try to be like that.

Do you see your drag persona as an extension of yourself or a different person entirely?

That’s a tough question because there definitely is that red light moment where you see the cameras on and you turn into your character. But I do like to think that it is just an extension of me, it’s not someone I put on. It is all my own genuine thoughts and feelings, I just have a bit more confidence to say it. I always feel it’s like Halloween when you put on your mask and you walk up to someones house asking for sweets… you wouldn’t do that without the mask on, if you know what I mean. That’s a bit like how it feels, it just makes you feel more confident like I am wearing my Superhero cape.

You mentioned you were in Ru Paul’s Drag Race however you won U.K v The World - how did that come about, are you invited to take part have you to apply?

No, you are invited. It was like mid-lockdown I think, and we finished airing Season 1 in 2019, then lockdown came about in 2020 and then in January 2021 I got the call for UK v The World. I wouldn’t have really taken it, only I felt like when I was on the show I was probably a bit of a forgettable character I guess. People watching from Northern Ireland would probably be like “What, we loved you”, but in the grand scheme of Drag Race I was probably not one of the most memorable people and I thought I have to be able to do shows that I have not tried before - I have got the means to make my outfits better and I am in lockdown so I pretty much had nothing better to do with my time.

It was great, I had the best time and I felt like I really fitted in and I had so much more fun than the first time and I think that is why I maybe did better because I wasn’t feeling so scared of everything and was able to just take things on head first. When you are on Drag Race you have to be ready, I always tell the girls around Belfast that you just need to be ready for whatever they throw at you.

Congratulations again on winning. You had the crown and now it has been passed on. But of course it is always something that you can look back on positively?

Oh yes. They do accept separate crowns so I have still got mine and whenever we get our house I am ready to put it on a shelf somewhere or on the mantlepiece so everyone can see it.

ever since then I have always thought that was kind of my strong suit. I do love the performance and I do love slagging people off on a microphone and all that but I definitely feel that putting a look together is where I feel most comfortable. Even it it wasn’t the most expensive thing, I feel fierce and thats all that matters.

It is very time consuming and it is a talent in itself to be able to do hair and makeup and also the money. To look that good is not cheap? I know, it is expensive. There was a lot of talk, especially with the most recent season of Drag Race All Stars because they were given money for their packages, the runway packages, but when we were on the UK v The World we didn’t really get that. People are always talking about how much it costs. On UK V The World I spent around £25,000 which is more than a deposit for a house. Luckily, it was when Drag Race was hot so I could make my money back, whereas now I feel like we are getting to a point where there are so many drag queens that you really have to fight to make your place in the world.

So you spent £25,000, but there was no prize money for winning UK v The World?

No, but it has now become quite a decent thing for me because any time I put up a Tik Tok about it, it goes viral and I get work from that which is fine and works for me.

wondering if Covid didn’t happen would I have been stranded on a desert island somewhere!

We need to talk about Dancing with the Stars, what an amazing show to be apart of, was it all you expected and what was the most challenging part of the experience?

It was very hard work - I think I had around 90 days without a break. Whenever you are doing your number on a Sunday you are straight back in the next day to learn the next dance because you only have four to five days to learn a new dance, so it was very intense with lots of meltdowns. Whenever I came home I thought that I was genuinely ill because I had such a come down from it… but it was probably one of the most rewarding things I have ever done. I can’t look back on Drag Race the same way that I can look back on Dancing with the Stars because I am just so proud of every dance and I could never believe that that was something that I would be able to do. What is such a shame is that people weren’t aware that was the journey I was going through because as a drag queen they expected me to be able to dance initially but it was such a struggle for me to learn to dance. I am so uncoordinated but my dance partner Simone was incredible. We are still genuine friends and have stayed in contact with each other. That is probably the most rewarding thing, that I can look back on it with so much love and I have made a friend as well.

I am the Queen of Hillsborough

We have to talk about your overall look. Your looks are so iconic, is there whole process whenever you are piecing an outfit together with makeup and hair. I am not sure how you work artistically, do you sit down and say this is what I foresee or is it a case of, I know what I am wearing so this is what am I doing. How does it work for you?

I mean my style is all over the place. I don’t know when I look good or when I don’t. But one thing I will say is that everything comes from my own ideas. I will find inspiration from maybe a keyring, a painting, something online or someone has drawn something but I will take it and I will draw exactly how I want it to look send it to the designers and the wig stylists. It has always been the biggest part of drag for me because whenever I worked in Boom Box I felt like there was only so far that I could get a platform for myself in Belfast so I had to go on social media and do my makeup looks, create crazy things and do lots of videos to get my name out there, and

I was shocked to hear there was no prize money - scandalous, I am guessing you all knew that on entering ?

Yes, they did tell us that. Again, that was when Drag Race was really good and everyone wanted a piece of it because we were all stuck in the house during lockdown and everyone wanted to support us in any way they could. It was a cool time to be on Drag Race. I don’t really know what to say, of course I would have loved prize money, but I am not bitter about it and let’s be honest some of these girls need the prize money now more than I did.

It really opened so many doors for you, what has been the weirdest thing and most exciting opportunities pitched to you?

I love taking the weird gigs and I remember I think it was Bianca Del Rio who said you should never turn down a gig without serious thought. I think the weirdest thing that I have been offered is one of those SAS shows, where you are on a deserted island and have to fend for yourself. I went for the meeting which was just before Covid, so I am

Has it helped improve your own drag performance? Do you incorporate more movement into your themes?

Yeah, well I am not like that kinda dance queen anyway but I can do a wee trick here and there. I am taking up dance lessons, there is a guy Adam in Belfast who is doing dance lessons every Friday and I am looking forward to starting them this week. So I will definitely be keeping it up.

What’s one thing you can take away from the show? What are you most proud of?

Just that I was able to do it. 10 to 11 weeks, a new dance every week, and all of the nerves - I am a very nervous person, I get crazy stage fright - however I was able to step out every week and perform.

If you asked me on week one how far do you think I would have got I would have said maybe week 3, but to make it to the final that is the thing I am most proud of. Also that I was able to reach out to people who had never seen a drag queen before. I was getting lots of people stopping me in the street

saying how much they loved me which meant a lot to me because obviously on national television in Ireland you would very rarely see a drag queen in that capacity. I felt very proud.

You are working with Garnier, how did that come about? It’s bound to be so surreal seeing your face on products when out shopping? They are honestly the best brand that I have ever worked with. I did a wee advert for them during lockdown and I had to tidy up my room to make it look Garnier approved and they loved it, they loved the content. Then about a year later they asked me to do their Pride campaign and they asked me to attend New York Pride and I just got so close with the team and ever since they have just been looking after me and can’t do enough for me. As far as I am concerned I will work for them until I am an old lady. Maybe it will be me dying the grey out of my wigs! I will be the new Davina McCall.

Since you have been in the industry what would you say have been the changes in terms of performance and perception?

Well, currently I think the queens are having quite a hard time because of the current economic climate. No-one has the spare money to go to a show so things are getting cancelled left, right and centre which is such a shame and hopefully that doesn’t last for much longer, however it is understandable. But the Arts is always the first thing to suffer because it is an expense that doesn’t have to be made, however on the good side I do think that drag is becoming more mainstream which is good to see. I am loving seeing drag queens on television and on stage and rightfully so. I mean people don’t bat an eyelid at comedians who have been around for years, drag queens have been around for just as long and deserve this mainstream spotlight, especially after the rumours that drag queens were groomers which was absolutely awful and horrible. But I am glad to see that hasn’t stopped them - if anything it has made them louder and prouder which is great to see.

Social media can be soul destroying, How do you handle negative comments or criticism? I definitely get that, especially after the whole eliminating pangina thing. It was a big thing that people didn’t really think that I should have won and I still get that to this day, like death threats. But one person who really inspired me with that is Baga Chipz - she gets it from all sides. She does not bat an eyelid, does not let it deter her from what she

is doing and it really inspired me to take it with a grain of salt and make a joke about it and move on. I think realistically these people are just terminally online, they live their lives online and it is like a whole other world that they are in with no reality. If they knew me in person they would know that I am just a normal person trying to get on with life and I am not some evil monster like they are making out.

Do you ever read the negative comments? Or do you think this is a load of bulls***, I am not even reading it?

I do read the comments, maybe I am a glutton for punishment. If there is a genuine point to made I would rather know it than not know it. For example, we are in a society today where you can’t say things that you could have said 10 years ago and if I do say something that is out of place I would like to be told rather than continue to do it, but that is very rarely the case when people are sending hate messages and I do end up blocking and deleting them.

You’ve had your fair share of competitions/ reality shows, any more on the horizon or bucket list?

I’ve got a few actually, I did Celebrity Cooking School and I loved it. I could never cook before and now I adore cooking, so I would love to do Bake Off of course. It would be so much fun, I love decorating cakes and things and I was the desert queen on Cooking School. I would really like to do Big Brother, because I feel that I just get along with anyone that I talk to, and I would love to meet new people and just go crazy in the Big Brother house. I would really like to do I’m A Celeb because I think that I could eat bulls testicles, it would just be another Saturday night for me, you know. Lol.

Are you going to apply for any of those shows? I always ask to be put forward. My dream would have been Strictly, but now that I have done Dancing with the Stars I don’t think that I can do Strictly. But who knows.

Does that automatically rule you out then? I think so. I met with Michelle Visage recently and she tried to get on Dancing with the Stars in America after she had done Strictly but they said no. But still, who knows? I didn’t win. I would even do the Christmas Special as I really enjoy dancing.

So you’ve already conquered the world, what is next for you, any projects you can share? This year I have some great Pride gigs coming up.

I have Mother in Dublin and that is on Dublin Pride day. I did it before just coming out of lockdown and it was fabulous. It is a massive stage with loads of visuals, Sasha Belair is going to be there, Cobra, all of these amazing artists that I really look up to, so that is next month. I will be at Drag Con LA which is incredible. I always love Drag Con, it is so amazing to me, I get to meet all of the queens from the show and all of the people Stateside who love us because they always love the British Queens - I think we are their favourite!

Americans in general are so so much more louder and flamboyant in general… Yes, well most of them are apparently Irish, that’s all I get “My family are Irish” and they do not look Irish at all, they have got a tan! Lol.

It’s pride month and this is our pride issue - in 2024 do you think Pride is needed?

Absolutely yes! However, not everything is perfect for the LGBT community. People who are Trans have to wait nearly 8 years for life changing surgeries and there is still hate in the world against people who are queer. So until the day of acceptance comes then no-one can ask why there is a Pride. I also think it is just a beautiful day where we all just get to have fun and hold our partners hand in the street.

What is your view on labels, are they needed or outdated?

I am not a massive label person to be honest. I do consider myself non-binary, but I don’t really mind what people call me because I am very confident in who I am and what I am. But I do understand why we have them and I do understand why people have the need to find their place if labels help them do that. So yes, I will accept you as you are and call you by whatever pronouns you want. I think that is the right way to be in life, why should I project how I feel unto someone else.

Do you have any final words?

Thank you for having me. Anyone that is reading this, just continue to ‘Do you’ and your dreams can come true. If I can do it, anyone can.

Thanks so much for taking the time to chat.

Interview with Daniel May

www.instagram.com/bluhydrangea_

CONOR

HAPPY PRIDE MONTH

EVERYONE! HOPEFULLY EVERYONE HAS PLANS IN WHICH TO BEST CELEBRATE WHO THEY ARE WHETHER THAT BE DANCING YOUR HEART OUT IN A MUDDY FIELD OR SURROUNDING YOURSELF WITH YOUR NEAREST AND DEAREST IT’S A GREAT TIME TO APPRECIATE YOUR OWN JOURNEY, HOW FAR YOU’VE COME AND HOW YOU CAN LIGHT THE WAY FOR OTHERS.

Pride month can be a difficult time for people who do not feel ready or able to express their identity and struggle with the thought of this. Too many social media posts have already expressed an undercurrent of this idea that Pride Month is the month to spring yourself out of the closet, to shout it from the rooftops, and while I myself would probably fall into this category I don’t expect it of everyone nor demand it of them, almost like this outdated idea that pride month is the month your “allowed” to come out and be proud, it feels just as “icky” for lack of a better word as when Kit Connor was forced to come out last year based on a belligerent rally for a young adult to share their identity with the world as clearly seen, before they were ready.

It’s through events like this and the commercialisation of pride, I questioned my own thoughts and beliefs of what pride month is, aware of how companies will use it to build a month of easy branding, how people might find themselves a little more loose tongued to indulge in a modernised version of Polari and camp nuances for a viral video and then laugh about it. Like a queer version of Cindy Lou I found myself struggling to find the true meaning of Pride Month, a way to embrace it which felt authentic to me.

Of course, the answer would be to look back on the stonewall riots, the treatment of queer communities compared to now, yet the strides we’ve made don’t seem equal, the hatred and absolute bile that the trans and non-binary communities face disgusts me, even on my occasional trips to Belfast the absolute trash being spewed from “activists” shows the worst in humanity, but when you see this being echoed on social media, even and more personally from members of our community, it’s abhorent, the community which fought for our rights so feverishly continually the topic of speculation on how they should even exist, and in particular the way in which that person who I will not name was able to speak in Belfast only last April.

include you as you don’t fit into some sterilised plastic version of what pride can mean. You may want to shout your queerness from the rooftops, or for now just work on building the self-love you so rightly deserve but what this month means is your accepted and you are wanted and in this company you are safe.

Pride is a riot, not all riots start shouting on the street some of them are quiet screams that start within yourself.

I would also just like to take a quick moment to say this will be

Pride is a riot, not all riots start shouting on the street some of them are quiet screams that start within yourself.

Please note, this column is the opinion of the columinst and not that of GNI or Romeo & Julian Publiccations Ltd.

In these comparisons I came upon a piece of information I never really thought about. Before reading on, ask yourself, when did a Rainbow flag become synonymous with pride? I could just be being an idiot once again, but I was shocked it was literally only 46 years ago. Before this the pink triangle was used, a symbol used in Nazi camps to identify gay men, later turned to a symbol of positive self-identity and protest. Forty-six years is not a long time in the grand scheme of things and yet the flag which was to symbolise a safe space has grown, it has changed and developed to include and represent as many people as. This beautiful tapestry weaving life, acceptance, and growth. I think this for me is where I find my stance on pride month. It’s easy to write it off for the negatives and to even think it might not

my last column, recent health problems have meant I am not as able to juggle as many responsibilities and feel as this is my 15th issue now is a great time to allow someone else space. I have lived a lot of life in-between these issues and would like to thank everyone who has reached out or connected with my somewhat cohesive mumblings. I want to thank everyone involved with GNI and the amazing team involved. Lastly thanks to Jay for understanding no matter how advanced a spell checker, I will still find a way to spell something wrong and require a re-read.

This just being my parting ethos, be kind to each other, tearing down your own community is an act of self-hate, get outside and touch some grass every now and again, you’re not a robot no matter how much you wish you were, there’s nothing better than a dog that will sit in your lap or a cat who purrs, and lastly free Palestine.

www.instagram.com/connormillsdesigns

Let’s go back to 1999 pre Atomic Kitten, you were in a performing arts college, what were you training for and what was your dream? I actually wanted to go onto the cruise ships and travel the world. I was a working class girl from very humble beginnings and for me the thought of just being free and travelling the world - the easiest way for me at that time was to get on the cruise ships. I actually went to a few cruise ship auditions when I was 16 and I got chosen but you had to be 18 to be on the cruise ships.

I mean, I was hungry and I had been performing every weekend doing cabaret from the age of 12 so I had four years of hard graft, learning the hard way, standing in the social clubs, the working men’s clubs and the dockers clubs, trying my best to get people’s attention when I was singing. Between the age of 12 and 16 you could see the way people’s reactions changed. Initially I was just this little kid singing ‘I Can See Clearly’ and then by the end of it I was singing Whitney Houston and fellas were putting their pints down, the women were putting down their G&T’s and people were watching, listening and clapping. I just loved it, I really did!

You’ve been vocal saying it was a lot of grafting particularly in the early days of the band, do you think with social media and apps it is harder or easier to break through?

It is harder in a way now because it is so easy for anyone to criticise. If I believed everything on my social media I wouldn’t leave the house - I would be a recluse, I would be a nervous wreck, I wouldn’t have belief in myself - because I think if you are not mentally strong it really can chip away at your confidence. I have been in the industry for over 25 years and have got tough skin on my back, and I have got self belief. Other people’s words aren’t going to penetrate my armour, but they did in the past. It is easy to lose confidence, I used to watch younger girls and the Little Mix girls and you would see all of this body shaming that Jesy got and it resonated with me, because I used to get body shamed but it was in the paper. So it would be there for a day or in a magazine for a week and then it would disappear and it would maybe come back in a few weeks or a few months and be regurgitated up again, but that poor girl could not get away from it.

You have to have social media to survive in this industry, it is part of your promotional platform, so imagine having to wake up every day with that fear, knowing people are just going to say s*** to me today. You have got to be so tough. I just hope that the younger people coming through are being looked after and they are being taught how to put on their armour and not take it too seriously.

If you had to put up with that on a daily basis, it is going to wear you out and wear you down. You would start to think “Is it even worth it”, because it is just the energy it creates. It is a really sh**** energy. That’s why I hang out on Instagram because I can shield myself from the people that aren’t so nice about me. It’s a different world today.

With the band you had so much success, for you what would you say was your greatest achievement and biggest regret?

NATASHA HAMILTON

After global success with Atomic Kitten, leading roles on stage, reality TV and a new baby Natasha has released solo material ‘Edge Of Us’ and we are living for it, Daniel quizzed her on this and so much more.

Hands down, our biggest achievement was staying resilient to get to the point of releasing ‘Whole Again’. On the lead up to ‘Whole Again’ it was very clear and apparent that we were going to get dropped by the record label. They had spent a lot of money on us, they had just re-signed the Spice Girls, they signed Robbie Williams and they basically said they had no money left, the girls haven’t lived up to our expectations, so.... They were actually going to drop us but our old manager fought for Whole Again and that video was done on the cheapest, shoestring budget. The video was this big bulky machine that was in the studio and it was ticking. It was like something from an old sci-fi movie, this is when technology is nothing like it is now, the machine replicated us. You could basically just do it on photoshop now and it would be dead easy. Back then it was this massive machine, god knows where they pulled it from, but it was so cheap. The budget was... bear in mind, pop videos back then could be around £250,000, maybe more to produce... I think this one took a few thousand to put together, but what that allowed us to do was recoup. So because Whole Again was so successful we actually recouped all of the money that we borrowed and the money that the record label spent on us up until that point. I think that we are one of the few bands that actually gets royalties from our music. Lots of the pop bands are millions of pounds in debt still to the record label and they don’t get a royalty or they get minimum royalties, so until you pay it back you don’t get anything.

Your Children range from under 1 to 21biggest difference for you having a child in the 2000’s compared to now, and when was easier?

Now! When I think back to Josh being a baby, it almost feels like I was having a baby in the 1940’s or 50’s. I think that is because I was a young mum and maternity clothes were non-existent, thank god we had the hipster jeans back then. They were all the rage so your bump could sit on top of the hipster jeans. The prams were bulkyeverything was just so much of a chore back then and now you have got a machine that makes a bottle of milk for you, times have changed.

What do your children think of atomic kittens music and your single - Edge Of Us?

My older boys have never really been into Atomic Kitten, they are in their late teens and early 20’s, but they have got total respect for what I did and have achieved, but they are definitely not fans. The younger kids yes. They are all loving the new music, even the older boys are like “ok mum that’s cool”!

You shared images of your body 12 days after having Kitty, you looked amazing btw, do you think there is still a stigma and expectation particularly for women to look a certain way and get into shape after giving birth? I just want to empower myself and empower other people. Be who you are, I really don’t give a s*** to conform to how you are supposed to look because you are labeled a pop star. For me, I look after myself, I go to the gym, I eat well, and I’ve lost weight. But my tummy isn’t flat, it’s got stretched skin and I am happy to let it all hang out now. Yes, I do wear certain underwear and certain clothes, I sit up straight and pull my belly in, you know, the tricks of the trade but I am human. I think we are so used to seeing these airbrushed, AI, whatever it is pictures on social media, and I love to throw a filter on some of my images, but I also show the real me. There are certain pictures and I will say “I do not want that edited” because that is who I am. I am proud of my body - I have had 5 children and it is never going to be how it was 20 years ago but I wouldn’t want it to be. I absolutely love my womanly curves, I was stick thin and scrawny when I was younger, and now I have a really shapely body and I love it!

I have to talk about Musical Theatre - I watched you in Blood Brothers, I think it was 2011, you were incredible, perfect casting, how was the experience for you?

I can honestly say it was the most nerve-wracking job of my career. Nothing has ever come close to the fear of opening night and hearing the band play. I got temporary deafness because my heart was beating so fast and all I could hear was it beating, and I went into a bit of a panic and was like “where’s the music” and the next thing I knew I was singing “Once I had a husband” and then before I knew it I was crying at the end in pain, searching for help, saying “Can someone help me out of this pain”, and the whole audience were on their feet (I have got goosebumps thinking about it). I remember walking off stage and it just felt like an out of body experience, I didn’t know what had just happened, I didn’t even recall most of it.

I had 10 days to rehearse a whole play. For me, Blood Brothers is a musical but it is like a play with songs. It is so gritty and deep. However, as the lead you are on stage for 33 minutes, like it is the longest scene for a leading lady, and I am just like, “oh yeah this is my first West End show”, so there was a lot to live up to. But I gave it my best shot and I feel like I did a good job and I did myself proud.

Would you ever return to the West End in the future?

Because I don’t actually live in London to go and do

West End, it would mean uprooting my life, moving down, spending time away from my baby and my kids, and I have done that so many times over the years and I am not in any rush to do that again. If you take part in campaigns you will be really busy for 6 weeks and then have a lot of time at home whereas the West End is around 8 months for 6 days a week.

I was at the 90’s Reunion in SSE Belfast last month, what an incredible night? Looks like you and Liz were having a ball, do you enjoy the reunion shows?

That was a mad gig! The energy in that arena was like WOW! It was absolutely insane. It is always lovely when you are on that roadshow vibe with all of the different bands coming and going. Just before we left I was catching up with Sonique at the bar and we were just having a giggle and talking about the last time we had a gig. I remember going to a rave in a forest on my first 18 to 30’s, dancing like a lunatic to Sonique and now we were having a brandy at the bar together.

Did you get much free time in Belfast or where you off to the next tour stop?

I had about 3 hours sleep because somebody booked me on the earliest flight home and I had to be up and out by 4am. Honestly, it was madness.

Now onto the single - Edge Of Us, I feckin love it, and what a cracker video. It’s been 16 years since you released anything - why now?

I think number one is life. I have raised five children and I think your mum’s role is to be at home with the kids and there is only so much you can do at times depending on your circumstances in life, your partner, if they are there or if they are not and I have raised some of the kids on my own at times. So it has been partly due to circumstances and partly due to other projects that never saw the light of day, working with people that ended up being like charlatans and wasting my time and things like that. It has been a rollercoaster of life that takes over, so it just happens to be now. But god I am so thankful, because I have got my roots, I have got a solid foundation. My husband is insane, he is my biggest supporter, I have got my mum and dad and his parents, we juggle everything between us. You want to see our diary, it is ridiculous.

Tell us about the creative process and how this song came about?

That is one of my favourite parts because during the writing process you are pulling in on experience and when you get to my age you have lots of experiences. So you are always a bit like, where is this going to go, and you will feel an emotion. When

I heard the backing track for Edge Of Us, it just had grit, I was feeling a bit of anger and it came out. It was instinctive, it was natural and when it comes to the design of a music video I love it. I want to be so far removed from my Natasha mum everyday life, I want ALL the costumes, ALL the make-up, ALL the wigs and you become the character. That is insane. For me, the song is amazing but when you watch the video with the song it is just elevated because I am that bitch! This was my experience and I wasn’t going to put up with it anymore. Lol.

Do you have any other material ready to release and is there an album planned?

I am going to be releasing an EP in July. The reason for this is because this project had a little bit of hiatus in the middle of it for me to have my daughter. There was some work that we started that I just wasn’t feeling it anymore and I just wanted it to be like a body of work that just hits hard. So there is going to be an EP and then I will be releasing a full album next year.

You’re doing Manchester Pride in August, any other festivals or tour planned?

At the moment it has been difficult regarding gigs because no-one knew what the music was. I am kind of planting the seeds this year so that next year it will be fruitful and we will be on tour a lot.

Finally, with this being the Pride issue and maybe some people are struggling with themselves what words of advice and wisdom would you give?

Just believe in yourself. You have everything within you to have a beautiful life. If you can share your innermost feelings and thoughts with a friend, a family member or a charity, there are people there who you can talk to, who can help you find the right words. When I was younger I had all of these emotions, and it was hard to verbalise them, but I think the more you talk about it and accept it and love yourself the easier it will be to say it to other people. But you have got this, it is in you and you have the power!

Thanks for taking the time to chat Daniel

READER QUESTIONS

Gary Alan asks would you ever do a reunion with all 4 members?

Sorry Gary, that is just not going to happen. And if you could perform a duet with anyone dead or alive who would it be, what song and why?

That is a really hard question. One of my idols is Quincy Jones. His album The Dude showed me music

in a totally different way. When I was growing up it was Kylie and Jason , MC Hammer and whoever else, I used to love the charts. But my dad had LP’s and when I was old enough to babysit I used to start listening to his LP’s and I just fell in love with The Dude. It was the orchestra. My dad had the most amazing sound system in the house, we had the tiniest house and the biggest speakers, it was brilliant. I just remember getting lost in this orchestra, the feeling, the goosebumps, so for me to work with someone like him and orchestrate music with an orchestra, that is what I would love.

Jenna Toland said, I read that you and Kerry no longer speak, given that Girls Aloud lost Sarah and S Club lost Paul, do you think you could reconcile?

With the whole Kerry thing, I wish her the best. I totally wish her the best in life, but where she is at and I am at, it’s like different places. That’s all I can say on that.

Paul Crowe wants to know did it bother you releasing covers from the Bangles and Blondie rather than more new material?

That was nothing to do with us, that was all down to A&R. I personally thought that we had a lot of album tracks that were better than the covers. It would bother me now but back then it was just like my dream job and the covers that we did release I loved, apart from the first time I heard The Tide Is High because obviously we heard the Blondie reggae version. I remember we were just looking at each other going “this is reggae” and the guy said “don’t worry we are going to popify it”.

Natasha’s Single Edge Of Us is OUT NOW

You can watch and keep up to date via https:// linktr.ee/natashahamiltonmusic

Interview with Daniel May

PAUL

PRIDE, HISTORICALLY DEEMED A DEADLY SIN IN MANY RELIGIOUS AND PHILOSOPHICAL TRADITIONS, IS SEEN AS AN EXCESSIVE BELIEF IN ONE’S OWN ABILITIES OR ACHIEVEMENTS, OFTEN LEADING TO AN ARROGANT ATTITUDE TOWARD OTHERS. THIS NOTION OF PRIDE STANDS IN STARK CONTRAST TO CONTEMPORARY INTERPRETATIONS OF GAY PRIDE, WHICH CELEBRATES THE SELF-AFFIRMATION, DIGNITY, ACCEPTANCE AND EQUALITY OF LGBTQ+ INDIVIDUALS. THIS ARTICLE EXPLORES THE COMPLEX EVOLUTION OF PRIDE FROM A DEADLY SIN TO A SYMBOL OF LIBERATION IN THE CONTEXT OF GAY PRIDE.

Pride is considered one of the seven deadly sins in Christian theology, with roots extending to ancient philosophical and religious texts. In the biblical narrative, pride is seen as the root of all sin, exemplified by the fall of Lucifer and the disobedience of Adam and Eve. In Buddhism, pride is viewed as an obstacle to enlightenment. These perspectives emphasise humility and self-awareness as antidotes to pride’s corrosive effects.

In stark contrast to the traditional view of pride as a sin, gay pride emerged as a response to centuries of marginalisation, persecution, and invisibility faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. The modern gay pride movement began in earnest with the Stonewall riots in 1969, a pivotal moment when LGBTQ+ people fought back against systemic oppression and discrimination.

Gay pride, fundamentally, is about reclaiming dignity and asserting one’s right to exist and thrive without fear or shame. By adopting pride, the LGBTQ+ community transforms a term historically associated with vice into a powerful declaration of self-worth and human rights.

I have been in a space holding position for many years; as a holistic therapist and a pharmacist, while maintaining an outward facade of strength and confidence. However, for years I found this profoundly painful and confusing, trying to keep my own emotional turmoil tightly contained. I had explored healing for myself but on a superficial level. I had this perception that I had to maintain this composure for everyone else, believing individuals’ were looking to me for guidance.

Not too long ago a dear friend and teacher called me out on my pride. This hit me deep! I was exposed! I spiralled into months of deep emotional processing but I have finally arrived into an internal space of compassion, forgiveness, liberation and acceptance for myself and everything I have experienced in my life.

reconciling this paradox lies in understanding the context and intent behind the use of the term “pride.”

In its traditional sense, pride is destructive because it isolates the individual from others and from a higher moral, fostering a sense of superiority and entitlement, leading to harmful consequences both for the individual and society. In the context of gay pride, however, pride functions as a restorative force. It is not about placing oneself above others but about affirming one’s equal place in society,

The Paradox of Pride: From Deadly Sin to Gay Pride.

empowering individuals to live authentically. Another critical dimension of gay pride is its impact on mental health and well-being. Historically, LGBTQ+ individuals have faced higher rates of mental health issues due to stigma, discrimination, and lack of acceptance. Gay pride promotes a sense of belonging and validation, which can significantly improve mental health outcomes.

Please note, this column is the opinion of the columinst and not that of GNI or Romeo & Julian Publiccations Ltd.

I take full responsibility and see how much my pride had gotten in the way for me to heal; like a warrior protecting his clan, but in my instance my pride was protecting the core pain that I had been ignoring. That single comment made me realise how traumatic my life has been, and how we as a society here in Northern Ireland normalise our trauma.

The transformation of pride from a deadly sin to a symbol of gay pride is not merely a linguistic evolution but a profound cultural and ideological shift. The key to

Pride Month is a vibrant celebration of the LGBTQ+ community’s rich diversity, achievements, and ongoing journey towards equality and acceptance. It’s a time to honour love in all its forms and the strength found in embracing our true selves. However, amidst the parades and festivities, it’s essential to remember that everyone’s experience is unique, and it’s okay not to feel okay. If you’re struggling with mental health issues, please know that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Reach out to trusted friends, family or even me; there’s support available to help you. Embrace the spirit of Pride not just by celebrating outwardly, but by also taking care of your inner well-being.

Paul McAllister - Aho Wellness

IG: aho_wellness

Facebook: aho.wellness.belfast

Email: wellness.aho@gmail.com

Adam Garcia

He’s a two time Olivier nominee, we drooled over him in Coyote Ugly, he’s a star of the small screen, the silver screen, Stage and known for his Dancing skills we are referring to the super talented and Sexy Adam Garcia, we chat about his illustrious career and his role in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang which comes to the Grand Opera House, Belfast on 23rd July.

Take us back to when you were young, where did your love of Tap come from?

The short answer would be that I did dance because I enjoyed it, and because it was something to do. My cousin went to a local dance school, and because my mum often worked until later on, it became something that my cousin and I could go to together after school. I was very lucky because the class was led by one of the best tap dancers in Australia, Glenn Dumbrell, and his sister Kerrie, and they were just great teachers. I didn’t watch many dancers, and wasn’t really aware of people like Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor, or Fred Astaire. Tap just happened to find me, and kept me with it until I got good at it, and then I enjoyed it even more!

I read that you love to learn and teaching has also been something you’ve done a lot of over the years. Are you a better teacher or student?

I’d like to think I’m a better teacher, but I don’t know. I really do enjoy teaching, but they’re two sides of the same coin. One helps the other. As I said, I had amazing teachers and hopefully I’m passing on their knowledge when I teach. Tap dancing in particular has a knowledge which can only really be passed on.

So many people will have gotten their first glimpse of you in Coyote Ugly, though prior to this in 1998 you released ‘Night Fever’ which was number 15 in the charts - how did that come about and why didn’t you release anything else. I love the music video!

Yes, I did release a single and I was on Top of the Pops, which was amazing! The single was released to promote Saturday Night Fever at the Palladium, and then for the next year I was busy doing the show. After that, I did have offers for pop recording contracts, but it never really occurred to me to do them. At that time I really wanted to pursue acting, and didn’t want to be distracted from that.

On the subject of Coyote Ugly, it’s crazy that it will be 25 years next year. Did you know how big the movie was going to be when you were

making it, and will there be any type of reunion to mark the milestone?

Yes, 25 years of Coyote Ugly, good gracious! How old does that make me?! I don’t know if there will be a reunion. We had a small reunion for the 21st anniversary, as of course Coyote Ugly could then ‘drink’, in America at least! We did some interviews for it, but they were all done remotely as it was lockdown. We still keep in touch every now and again, maybe I’ll suggest a reunion and see what happens!

You played Fiyero with Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth in Wicked, how was working with those iconic ladies and are you looking forward to watching the movie adaptation later this year?

I did play Fiyero with Idina and Kristin, but only ever in workshops in New York and before the show had even officially started. I then performed in London with Idina, but not Kristin. I’d love to work with them both again. Both of them bring such a high level that you have to reach in order to even appear on the stage with them. I’ve got to work with some amazing people and Idina is one of them, and I’d certainly like to work with Kristin again in a bigger capacity.

The film is going to be amazing. I have friends who have worked on it but they won’t tell me a thing about it. So I know as much as everyone else, and I’m terribly excited!

It was formally confirmed earlier this year that the Masked Dancer won’t be returning which is sad. I wanted to ask, given that there is so much secrecy around the masked programmes, does not seeing the competition make it easier or more difficult and when you finally got to see the others were you envious of costumes/ characters?

Yes, it is sad that the Masked Dancer won’t be returning. It’s a really great show and I had such a fun time on it. Obviously, the secrecy is huge and that

can be difficult, but actually I found performing on it quite liberating. As a dancer you’re used to putting on a show with your face and of course with this you didn’t have to. You get to project what’s really going on for you, and you don’t have to hide anything.

In terms of physically, the mask itself was difficult to dance with, and I was a little envious of other people who got more streamlined packaging, so to speak!

You were filming in Australia last year for a new movie, My Eyes. What can you tell us about it and when is it likely to be released?

That’s right. It was lovely to go home to Australia to film, as I hadn’t been home since before the pandemic, and it’s a really beautiful story. It’s a family drama in which a couple and their young daughter unfortunately discover that the daughter has a very rare eye condition which is going to make her more or less blind. During the treatment and discovery of this illness, the family faces some tough decisions and facts are revealed that create real difficulties between them. It’s all about how they move forward through this. I’m really excited for it, it’s a very touching film with a really great script.

Let’s talk about Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, For anyone unfamiliar tell us about your character? And does the stage show differ much from the movie?

This is the stage production of the movie, which was originally done in 2002 with Michael Ball and a host of other people. The musical itself adheres much more to the movie than it does to the book. There’s the beautiful music written by the Sherman brothers for the movie, but they also wrote additional songs for the musical, and it feels appropriate after the unfortunate passing of Richard Sherman just a couple of weeks ago that this show is on now. The music is so catchy, even if you don’t know the movie or the musical, you’ll know the music.

I play Caractacus Potts, who is an inventor. He is passionate about creating things, that’s his drive. Like

Yes, 25 years of Coyote Ugly, good gracious!

How old does that make me?!

an artist, he just has to create, and that does mean that the family don’t have a lot of money, but he tries his best. The story is about him finally creating something, this time not even to make money but for his children to enjoy, and it turns out to be a magic car!

The cast is great, soap icons Charlie Brooks and Liam Fox, how are they to work with?

Yes, the whole cast is great. Ellie Nunn as Truly Scrumptious, is truly scrumptious! Charlie Brooks and Liam Fox are soap icons but they’ve done a fair amount of theatre too. I think Liam did quite a bit before his stint on television and Charlie recently did The Ocean at the End of the Lane, which is a beautiful play. They’re fantastic. They’re very humble, warm, wonderful company members and that’s the joy of theatre – you are a company. I really enjoy working with both of them.

You have been touring all over and the run and you are continuing the run literally till the end of the year. How has the experience been so far and are you looking forward to coming to Belfast?

Yes, we are touring all across the UK. I am going up until the end of the year, finishing in Blackpool, but the show will continue into 2025. It’s been fantastic. I have to say, I have had the most fun doing this show on stage. It’s silly, and touching, and the music is beautiful. It’s a real family show with a company that feels like a family too, we are a troupe of travelling players. I’ve never done a tour in the UK before, and it really is a fun ride. I do miss my own family but I get to see them every weekend and when we’re near London I stay at home.

I’m very much looking forward to coming to Belfast. My family is actually going to come to Belfast because it’s during the school holidays, and I’m really excited for us to venture around, so if you’ve got any tips, let me know!

I mentioned you are signed on until the end of the year, any big plans afoot for 2025?

I have two movies coming out next year. The first is My Eyes which we’ve already mentioned, and the other is called The Performance, which I shot in Bratislava in 2022 and is currently doing the festival circuit. It’s the last of Arthur Miller’s short stories, and it’s a tap-dancing movie set pre-World War Two. It’s a really great film so I’m excited for that to come out.

And finally in a few words why should people come and see Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at Belfast’s Grand Opera House. They should come for the music, the amazing choreography by Karen Bruce, and the job our director Thom Southerland has done in making it so theatrical. By that, I mean that it is presented without screens or video, which can be fantastic, but this is an old musical with an old story. Of course, there’s also the magical flying car!

You may have nostalgia for the movie which this plays homage to, and if you’ve not seen it, it’s still joyful. We have such an amazing range of people coming to see the show and they all find something to enjoy and come away from the theatre with a smile on their face.

Interview with Daniel May

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang flies into Belfast on 23rd July, for tickets visit goh.co.uk

My name is Gary Duffy and I am 32 years of age from Belfast, Northern Ireland.

I am a singer and songwriter with the most enormous passion for music. I am also an actor represented by Shelley Lowry Talent Management.

After making my mark on the music industry with my debut single “Did you ever really love me?” In March 2020 I have now released nine tracks in total with my tenth coming soon. My new single “Chillin with Raye” is OUT NOW!. The song is inspired by the people who have doubted me, told me I wasn’t good enough and would never accomplish anything. I have always believed in myself and have never given up. Recently I got cast in recording artist Raye’s new music video. I flew to London to work with Raye and the experience was invaluable. This is a new sound for me and was heavily inspired by Raye herself.

I had my first headline show in August 2022 in Limelight Belfast which was a huge achievement. I performed at Black Studios first ever Music Industry Networking event at Lavery’s Belfast and it was a huge success. I performed as the opening headliner at Custom House Square at Belfast Pride 2023.

All ten of my original tracks were recorded and produced at Black Studios with Jessica Hammond. Working with Jessica has helped me grow as an artist.

I hope you can listen to my new track and to consider playlisting the track into rotation. I would love it If you’re radio station would consider “Chillin with Raye” as your “Track Of The Week”. I would love to come into your station to talk about the single and how it was working with Raye if there is an opportunity.

You can link through to all my social platforms through www.linktr.ee/Garybuhhh Or if you want to get in touch email gary200345@hotmail.co.uk.

Gary Duffy

W CALUM

ith the arrival of his 2018 debut album Only Human, U.K.-based singer/songwriter Calum Scott landed at No. 1 on the iTunes album chart in over 20 countries around the world, approaching 10 billion total global streams and counting. Now certified platinum or gold in 21 countries, Only Human includes his five-times-platinum smash “You Are The Reason,” a track that cracked the top 25 on Spotify’s US Viral 50 and hit the top 10 on iTunes single charts in 38 countries. The album also features Calum’s stripped-back, three-times-platinum cover of Robyn’s “Dancing On My Own,” which earned a Brit Award nomination in the category of Best British Single and has amassed over one billion streams globally. His first new music since Only Human, “Biblical” marked an exciting evolution of Calum’s artistry, infusing even more raw emotion into his soulful and timeless sound. The piano-laced ballad served as the first single from his acclaimed sophomore album Bridges, which arrived in June 2022. Bridges also features Calum’s hit singles “Heaven” (a breathtaking tribute to living in the moment by surrendering to love), “If You Ever Change Your Mind” (a bittersweet but empowered piece produced byGreg Kurstin), and“Rise”(hailed byRolling Stone as “one of the 50 Most inspirational LGBTQ Songs of All Time”). Over the last few years, Calum’s songs have appeared on countless TV shows (including “American Idol,” “The Voice,” “So You Think You Can Dance,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” and many more). His television performances include “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” “Good Morning America,” “Live with Kelly and Ryan,” “Dancing With The Stars,” and the “The TODAY Show,” among others. In addition, Calum has garnered acclaim from outlets including Billboard (who praised his “stunningly pure voice”), The Huffington Post (who stated that “Scott makes an impressive splash...compelling”), andRolling Stone(who declared that “[Scott] can give any listener chills”). Calum’s new single “Lighthouse” is out now. Having recently set out on tour with Ed Sheeran for his extended “Mathematics Tour” of Asia and Europe, Calum will be performing at European festivals throughout the summer.

Multiplatinum award-winning UK pop dynamo Calum Scott brings upbeat energy and powerhouse vocals to “Then There Was You.” He flaunts his showstopping range with a spirited performance emboldened by his towering high register. His bouncy delivery instantly captivates on the chorus as he sings, “I’m never ever ever gonna let you go...and then there was you.”

About the song, Calum said, “‘Then There Was You’ is a story about finding that someone who just comes along and changes everything; who suddenly takes you from never feeling loved to bursting with happiness and dreams for the future! I was with some of my favourite writers when we got in a room, wanted to have some fun and not think too hard! It can be challenging to write love songs without being cheesy but this one came so organically and was born out of pure joy! This will be my first song included in a film soundtrack too which makes me very proud and excited!” The song was co-written and produced by multiplatinum, GRAMMY® nominated writer/producer Michael Hodges. Hodges added, “It was the perfect fit for this soundtrack and an unexpected twist for ‘Garfield’. No one every really talks about the love Garfield has for John and this song highlights it in such a beautiful way. Once I heard the idea, I just couldn’t let it go”.

Last month, the Soundtrack’s first original single—Keith Urban and Snoop Dogg’s “Let It Roll” was released to praise from Taste of Country and more, Variety applauded how “Snoop Dogg and Keith Urban are not as odd a couple as it might seem at first,” going on to profess, “he and Urban are going big.”

The 10-track album, produced by GRAMMY® nominated writer/producer and the film’s executive music producer Michael Hodges, also boasts a new original composition by five-time GRAMMY® Award winner Jon Batiste entitled “Good Life” in addition to contributions from Calum Scott, Granville featuring Will Champlin, Hannah Waddingham and more. It also features three tracks from Academy® Award-nominated composer John Debney, as well as classics by Marvin Gaye and Dean Martin.

The Garfield Movie, Garfield (voiced by Chris Pratt), the world-famous, Monday-hating, lasagna-loving indoor cat, is about to have a wild outdoor adventure! After an unexpected reunion with his long-lost father – scruffy street cat Vic (voiced by Samuel L. Jackson) – Garfield and his canine friend Odie are forced from their perfectly pampered life into joining Vic in a hilarious, high-stakes heist. The film is directed by Mark Dindal with a screenplay by Paul A. Kaplan & Mark Torgove and David Reynolds based on the Garfield characters created by Jim Davis.

CALUM SCOTT “THEN THERE WAS YOU” OUT NOW

SCOTT

Delishus...

EuroQueen & Youtube Sensation

When you first meet Delishus O’Tool with her flowing ginger locks and not to mention her fabulous and vibrant gowns you could be forgiven for thinking “ what a glamorous Irish woman or should we say Drag Queen”! However there is a lot more to Delishus than simply her makeup, sparkling personality and well loved tongue in cheek humour. Delishus has been crowned by her loyal followers as the “Drag Queen with the voice and the range”.

Delishus is a fully trained Countertenor who uses her pure and raw musical abilities to spread hope, positivity and inspiration, whilst promoting the music industry to new upcoming musicians, artists and her fan following. She can truly encapsulate her audience through her musical strengths and calibre by undertaking big, strong and powerful performances from Beyoncé, Celine, Mariah, Whitney and her own heartfelt an unique songs inspired by her life experiences. You can hear within her original music how she is so creative and experimental with choice of tones, harmonies and genres for example pop, reggae and jazz .She is motivated , focused and using her technological ability to develop and produce her own original successful online YouTube channel to showcase her talent to her following and wider communities.

In 2023 Delishus launched “The Diva Show” with much acclaim with an astonishing 100k views. This led to Delishus winning Integrity Magazine’s “Drag Queen Of The Year 2023” in London. The Diva show was sporadically produced over two years by Delishus whilst being co-edited by Brian Griffin, member of the band “The Untouchables from Buzz Media. Alongside co-producer Brian The Diva Show was filmed by Jamie Brown a member of “Vixen” an established girl band in Northern Ireland.

Delishus chose to work with Buzz Media Productions for their diversity in not only showcasing different aspects of Delishus sultry and alluring countertenor vocals, but also her fabulous covers from genres of heavy hitting artists from Whitney Houston to Freddie Mercury. Within the launch Delishus debuted her own original song called “Guilty” which has become a popular favourite with her fan base and has sparked a song writing passion within herself.

She is devoted to services to the LGBTQ+ Community through her passion and love for performing, song and lyric writing and her love for music. Over the past 10 years she has become known as the face of VirginMedia02 Belfast and NI doing various events in Particular - Pride Parades. Furthermore in doing so Delishus helps coach young people and new drag artists she comes in contact with to inspire them to showcase their talents and be the best they can be, whilst being proud of who and what they are in this crazy yet wonderful world.

Over recent years this loyal queen has undertaken charitable events to help support and promote the rights of others this includes ; animal rights, gay rights and learning disabilities. For instance swimming the River Liffy in Dublin to climbing mountains in heels, this just shows how determined and resilient Delishus can be.

This year Delishus entered Ireland’s Eurosong to proudly represent her country with her own recording of a Latin inspired song “Take Me Out”. Unfortunately

for Ireland she was not shortlisted to the final 6 however she was thrilled that she made the top 10 on her first attempt which was reported by certain sources.

Nothing stops this confident and resilient Queen and since then has launched her song on her Youtube whilst the top 6 finalists were getting announced. In doing so came some positive shocks and surprises before Ireland’s Eurosong aired on RTE’s Late Late Show. Before the show was aired Delishus had already achieved 150k Youtube views more than the other 6 contestants’ viewer count combined. The Drag Diva’s video was filled with plenty of comments from unhappy and furious members of the public who longed to see her in the Eurosong finalist lineup. In doing so this has instilled Delishus with the confidence to put another song forward for 2025.

Since the release of “Take Me Out” Delishus now has the largest drag YouTube channel in Ireland replacing Rupauls’s All Star Winner Blu Hydrangea and she’s not stopping anytime soon.

Delishus is preparing to release her new pop music video “Take Me Out” before Eurovision 2024. The video is currently being edited and produced by Loraa White CEO of the award winning Music Video Marketplace, a Northern Ireland based company involved widely in the music industry supporting local talent. Expect the unexpected with this pop video and storyline showcasing Delishus in a different light that is sure to turn heads of fans both new and old.This non stop singing diva has returned to the studio once again recording an EP with the multitalented Jessica Hammond from Black Studios Belfast who also recorded the much loved “Take Me Out”. Delishus being so versatile and on trend , is planning a new direction and twist within her music and brand with the aim and hope her next song to be forwarded and making the final 6 for Irelands Eurosong.

Judging by her first amazing attempt we might even see her go all the way and represent Ireland for Eurovision 2025.

YouTube - Delishus O’tool https://www.youtube.com/@DelishusOtool Instragram - Delishus O’tool https://www.instagram.com/delishusotool/ Facebook - Delishus O’tool https://www.facebook.com/DelishusOtool2014

My journey to the pageant

Shining light Pageant helps you build your confidence and mental health wellbeing. It also makes you feel better about yourself. They help a lot of charities to do with mental health and also raise awareness for mental health. Shining Light is all about equality and diversity and anybody can join Shining Light as it’s open for everyone..

I came across the Shining Light Pageant when I was looking up Pageants in Northern Ireland. There were a few but shining Light Pageant is the one that stood out for me because shining Light only wants you to be yourself and to build your confidence. It also helps with your mental health and it’s a system that raises awareness for people that struggles with their mental health illness.

I have always watched pageants on tv like Miss universe, miss world and miss Supranational.. They have inspired and made a difference in people’s lives and I thought one day I would like to be able to help and save people’s lives. I want to encourage people to be able to tell their stories on their mental health illness and I wanted to use my voice to show people that raising awareness for others to understand that mental health illness is such an important issue. It’s ok not to be ok .

I started my journey as a finalist In shining Light Pageant Last year in June 2023. I was fundraising for Aware ni as my chosen charity and all around outside of Belfast stores the likes of fresh garbage, game, hmv and the body shop in Victoria Square where I have raised money, I gave out cupcakes, keyring and candles as a gift for every donation.

Last year I was going through my mental health problems, thinking I was not good enough and I should try harder and work harder because it wasn’t enough. I felt frustrated and disappointed in myself because I felt I could do better. This made me feel very upset and angry with myself.

Thankfully there were good people in my life to cheer me up and said that I was enough and the pageant itself has really helped me to be a better me and to be more confident.

When I was on the stage of Shining Light in April for the nationals, in the evening

wear section I wore a dress because I felt that I was more myself and more happy to be different. The crowd went wild and cheered for me, they were all so supportive of me. I asked my director Jennifer a week before the pageant if I could wear a dress and she was the most supportive person ever and she said it shouldn’t be an issue if you do different things and you just keep breaking those boundaries.

Then I won my title as Mr Shining Light 2024. It was the most amazing moment and emotional thing that has ever happened. I almost cried on the day because I got to be who I was and represent myself for who I am.

I’m so excited for this year’s fundraising, I have a few ideas that will be revealed in due course. This year’s charity is Action Mental Health. I’m so excited to support and give them the platform they deserve.

I am also looking forward to going to the international’s in 2 years time where I’ll be taking to the stage again in Derry/ Londonderry and representing my country the Philippines as the Philippines has won many pageants across many countries, and they are a proud country.

My advice to all the gay men out there is be your unique self, be the person you want to be and if you’re going through mental health issues go get help and ask someone who has been through it - you’re not alone. Speaking out can be daunting but there are so many people who can help - doctors, gp, mental health service, family, friends and counseling.

I absolutely recommend Pageants to anyone who is struggling with their mental health, they help a lot of people and it’s an amazing system to get behind and support as it helps save people’s lives.

A man in a dress shouldn’t have a label and I hope one day I can help many people to be themselves.

Jason Cancino https://www.instagram. com/j.cancinomodeling/

JESSICA HAMMOND

Jessica is a Producer, Singer and songwriter from Belfast. She has seen major success on her 3 previous original singles, all charting in the top 10 Shazam charts in Northern Ireland. She has generated over 20 million Spotify streams, with her latest releases on Warner UK & Sony Germany, reaching over 5 million radio impressions.

Jessica’s versatility shines in her songwriting, production and vocal ability, which is best showcased across her numerous releases, stylistically varied projects and performance credits.

In addition to being an artist in her own right she also writes & produces for other artists and more recently she has just finished

working on Seasons 1, 2 & 3 of a brandnew BBC kids TV Show ‘Nova Jones’ about an intergalactic pop star, which saw Jessica writing, recording & producing all 40 tracks in the show.

The latest season is set for worldwide release in November. Season 1 of the show already has over a million views on BBC iPlayer with the “poptastic songs” being widely lauded as one of the biggest attractions to the hit CBBC show.

Following a slew of successful writing credits for other artists, Jessica is focused on releasing her own brand-new music in 2024.

You can find/follow across social media

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/ artist/2lsJv6qUERUm02g6uaxRri

Soundcloud - https://soundcloud.com/ jessicahammondx

Apple - https://music.apple.com/gb/artist/jessicahammond/339302780

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ jessicahammondx/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ JessicaHammondMusic/

GBTiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ jessicahammondx

Map reference is for diagrammatic purposes only. Check dates with organisers before making plans.

PRIDE IN IRELAND

Omagh Pride

22 June 2024

Map reference: 1

Dublin Pride

29 June 2024

Map reference: 2

Wicklow Pride

6 July 2024

Map reference: 6

Limerick Pride

13 July 2024

Map reference: 7

Trans Pride Dublin

13 July 2024

Map reference: 8

Navan Pride

13 July 2024

Map reference: 9

Mullingar Pride

13 July 2024

Map reference: 10

Carlow Pride

14 July 2024

Map reference: 3

Drogheda Pride

22 July 2024

Map reference: 4

Belfast Pride

27 July 2024

Map reference: 5

Causeway Pride

3 August 2024

Map reference: 16

Cork Pride

5 August 2024

Map reference: 15

Fermanagh Pride

6-7 August 2024

Map reference: 17

Galway Pride

17 August 2024

Map reference: 11

Meath Pride

17 August 2024

Map reference: 12

Letterkenny Pride

19 August 2024

Map reference: 13

Foyle Pride

24 August 2024

Map reference: 14

Trans Pride NI

14 September 2024

Map reference: 18

was a riot

O Our history... STonewall

n Saturday 28th June, 55 years ago, an uprising took place at the Stonewall Inn in New York City. As it was raided by the police in the early hours, three nights of unrest followed, with LGBT people, long frustrated by police brutality, finally fighting back. Lesbians and trans women of colour were some of the key people involved in the act of resistance, including Stormé DeLarverie, Sylvia Rivera and Marsha P. Johnson. This anniversary is a reminder of the power of standing together in defiance of those who seek to divide us.

The Stonewall uprising took place in the context of broader civil rights movements. The Revolutionary People’s Constitutional Convention in 1970 was a key moment in which activists from Black Power, feminist and gay liberation movements came together, saw common cause and learned from each other.

The Gay Liberation Front was the main organisation that formed out of the uprising and these wider movements. The GLF first formed in the US and were part of the original discussions to create the first Pride, which took place on June 28 1970 in New York City, a year after the Stonewall riots - then called the Christopher Street Day Parade.

Some UK activists were involved in some of these key moments in the US movement, and they came back to Britain to form a British chapter of the Gay Liberation Front, meeting for the first time at the LSE library in October 1970, with the first UK Gay Pride Rally taking place a few years later on 1 July 1972, in London.

In the UK, sexual acts between men had been partially decriminalised in 1967, but there was a huge amount of persecution of gay and bi men afterwards. Campaigning at the time was mainly led by the Homosexual Law Reform Society.

The 1970s were characterised by radical grassroots and community-based activism and support. There were many splinter groups from the Gay Liberation Front: the Campaign for Homosexual Equality was a key driving force, and the focus of

activism was often explicitly focused on directly challenging heteronormative, conservative norms of family and gender roles; other community-led initiatives coming out of the 1970s included Gay News(set up in 1972), Switchboard (1974), and Gay’s the Word bookshop (1979).

The AIDS crisis dominated the 1980s for the LGBT community, first coming to public attention in 1981 when the first person died of an AIDS-related illness. A year later, a man named Terry Higgins was among the first people known to die of an AIDS-related illness in the UK: the Terrence Higgins Trust was set up in his name.

The prevalence of AIDS was greater in the USA than the UK, but in both countries there was a real lack of political and service support for people living with HIV/AIDS, leading to a huge emphasis on community activism and support. Lesbians and bi women provided critical support to gay and bi men during this time, and Act Up was the key campaigning group focused on challenging the lack of political and health support for people living with HIV / AIDS.

The LGBT community was politically and socially stigmatised throughout the 1980s, creating the hostile political context that allowed Section 28 to be passed as law. This piece of legislation effectively prevented teachers from talking about same-sex relationships in schools, forcing teachers back into the closet, or out of their job, and scarring a generation of LGBT people.

Stonewall was created to fight this discrimination in the UK, 20 years after the uprising.

On 11 September 1988, at a meeting held in Sir Ian McKellen’s house in Limehouse, the basic aims were drawn up in a document dubbed the Second Limehouse Declaration. The first Limehouse Declaration, announcing the launch of the Social Democrat Party, had been signed in the house next door.

On 24 May 1989, the new group sent a press release to the LGBT press announcing the founding of the Stonewall Group.

Almost 35 years later they have made a big difference to the lives of LGBT people around the world. In the UK, the LGBT movement has won employment rights. Parenting rights. Partnership rights. An equal age of consent.

Fifty five years after the uprising, there’s lots for us to celebrate – but there’s also a lot more work that needs to be done. We won’t stop, until everyone can be accepted for who they arewithout exception.

Credit - Stonewall

What’s the point in pride?

The rainbow project explain...

For many, Pride is the best party of the year , a time to let loose and party through the night, celebrate the wins we’ve had and the fact that we live in a society where the gays can, in fact, take over the city for a day. For many others it’s one of the biggest protests of the year, a chance to show up loud and proud for LGBTQIA+ rights and equality, taking up space and being visible in the town or city where you live. For most people, it’s probably a bit of both.

We’re launching right into Pride season and, I think, for many of us across the UK and Ireland, this particular season is one tinged with conflicting emotions.

It’s true to say that we have come so far in the past few decades, with growing public acceptance of LGBTQIA+ people and identities, people feeling more able to come out and be themselves, and increased representation of our communities in public life and the media. In Northern Ireland we’ve achieved same-sex marriage, adoption rights, removing the ban on blood donations and pardons for historical convictions, all within the past decade. We now have three openly gay MLAs (one of whom is an Executive Minister) and as of this month Belfast has its first openly gay mayor.

It’s all very much worth celebrating!

It’s equally true to say that, here and around the world, LGBTQIA+ communities are experiencing one of the strongest, most coordinated and wellfunded pushbacks on our rights and equality that we have experienced since decriminalisation.

This global anti-LGBTQIA+ movement has continued to push against our rights, using the increased visibility of trans people as a wedge to divide our communities whilst working to undo any progress that has been made for all LGBTQIA+ people, not just trans communities. The pretence of ‘standing up for LGB people’ crumbles when these anti-trans people and movements get the opportunity to pass bans on drag performances, or harass butch-presenting lesbian women in bathrooms, or further police how LGBTQIA+ communities live, express ourselves, and enjoy our rights and freedoms.

It’s clear that our protests, actions and voices are needed now more than ever.

Maintaining that duality of Pride as both a celebration and coming together of our communities, as well as being a protest to give voice to the issues we still face, is essential. These issues are important, they are urgent, they need

action and we need to do our utmost to build movements with LGBTQIA+ communities and our allies to tackle them. What’s also important is caring for each other, revelling in the queer joy and community that Pride celebrations afford us, feeling safe and able to take up space in our towns and cities, and building a sense of community care and solidarity with other LGBTQIA+ people who you may not know or interact with.

In The Rainbow Project, we’ll be using Pride as a platform to speak both within and outside our communities about our 5 key policy priorities to meaningfully improve the lives of all LGBTQIA+ people in Northern Ireland. These priorities are:

• Banning conversion practices

• Improving gender affirming healthcare

• Reducing anti-LGBT hate crime

• Advancing LGBTQIA+-inclusive education

• Eliminating HIV transmissions by 2030

This is by no means a comprehensive list of the issues facing LGBTQIA+ communities, or of the issues that we’re working on in our lobbying, campaigns and services. It is moreso a recognition of five of the key priorities for our communities where we have the ability to make change that would positively impact the lives of all LGBTQIA+ people in Northern Ireland.

We’ve been pushing the needle on many of these issues for years. From convening the Ban Conversion Therapy Coalition to the recent release of cross-sector research on experiences of conversion practices, we’ve been building support for a ban on these practices both within and outside the Assembly and Executive. We’ve consistently raised issues around gender affirming healthcare, just last month hosting an all-island LGBTQIA+ Forum focused on the topic, while pushing hard on the inclusion of all LGBTQIA+ people in all areas of healthcare.

We’ve also been working to reduce hate crime and increase reporting and support for victims through our Hate Crime Advocacy Service, and have been working closely with the Justice Minister and Department to progress updates to our hate crime legislation. We collaborate closely with our colleagues across the LGBTQIA+ and women’s sectors to ensure that young people across Northern Ireland have access to better, more comprehensive and LGBTQIA+inclusive Relationships and Sexuality Education. Our aforementioned Sexual Health Officer has also been working tirelessly to tackle stigma and improve access to STI testing and support

services for those living with HIV.

We certainly can’t do any of this alone. All of the progress for LGBTQIA+ people has been achieved through working together across communities, across sectors, across organisations, and harnessing that collaboration to create an environment where change is unavoidable. Every scrap of legal protection and extension of rights has come after an uphill battle to often force the Executive, Assembly or even the UK Government to act.

Chief among these was the mass movement for marriage equality, which saw thousands of LGBTQIA+ people and allies taking to the streets to rally for a change to the law. The Love Equality coalition, comprising LGBTQIA+ organisations, trade unions, human rights organisations, and other campaigning groups across society in Northern Ireland, was extremely successful in building that movement and achieving consensus across society for a change to the law to allow same-sex couples to marry. This is the kind of energy, collaboration and movement-building we need to tackle the current wave of antiLGBTQIA+ rhetoric and regression of rights both locally and around the world.

Across the UK and Ireland, and further afield, LGBTQIA+ organisations and communities have been coming together to reflect, strategise and resist this rights regression. Whether it’s Trans Equality Together in the Republic of Ireland, the Ban Conversion Therapy Campaign across the UK, or the countless grassroots and volunteerled groups and campaigns sprouting up across these islands, there is a huge amount of work already under way to mount a fight-back. We need to redouble those efforts locally, especially during Pride, where we have an opportunity to reach out beyond our communities to invigorate support and make the case for change.

So when you’re out and about this Pride season, celebrating and protesting and doing whatever it is you do on Pride, remember that there is still a huge body of work to be done for LGBTQIA+ communities in Northern Ireland. Remember that there are many who don’t feel they can celebrate this year, because their lives and identities are being so forcefully targeted in politics and the media . But also remember that it’s okay to let loose, to enjoy yourself, to revel in that community spirit and togetherness, while at the same time building movements and working together to create a better, safer, more equal future for all LGBTQIA+ people in Northern Ireland.

Join us... celebrate belfast pride 2024 at ac hotel by marriott belfast

Join AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast for a fun filled celebration of Belfast Pride Festival 2024, from Friday 19th July to Sunday 28th July. Enjoy great food, cocktails, and a fantastic atmosphere as the hotel offers a unique experience to dine and watch the Pride Parade preparations on Saturday, 27th July. The parade starts at 1pm, with the build-up beginning at 11am.

The Pride Parade floats will get ready outside AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast, before moving to Custom House Square for the official start. Guests can kick off their celebrations with delicious food and drinks at the hotel or enjoy a quick bite before heading into Belfast city centre to watch the parade.

Celebrity Chef Jean-Christophe Novelli, the mastermind behind the menus at both Novelli’s restaurant and The Terrace, invites guests to enjoy new dishes while sipping on signature cocktails.

Special BBQ for Belfast Pride Parade (Saturday 27th July)

To celebrate the Belfast Pride Parade, AC Hotel Belfast will host a special BBQ on The Terrace from 11.30am to 5.00pm. Experience a day of relaxed dining with Mediterraneaninspired cuisine, all while enjoying the al fresco atmosphere and views of the iconic Titanic Quarter.

A Taste of the Mediterranean

The Terrace is the perfect place to be this summer. Guests can enjoy tapas-inspired sharing plates, pizza, and the popular Terrace BBQ Thursdays, held on the last Thursday of each month. Live entertainment adds to the atmosphere on weekends and BBQ Thursdays.

The Terrace’s new menu captures the essence of the Mediterranean with vibrant flavours and fresh ingredients. Enjoy dishes like Padrón peppers, succulent calamari, antipasti sharing boards, and delicious pizzas.

Paula Stuart, General Manager at AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast, adds: “We’re so happy to recently reopen The Terrace for summer — it’s an exciting chapter for us and our food. Celebrating six years of hospitality with Belfast Pride 2024 is amazing. We invite everyone to come dine, relax, and enjoy the parade preparations. AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast has become a staple in the city, and we can’t wait to welcome both old friends and new faces to the hotel for a great day out.”

Dine at Novelli’s and The Terrace this Summer

Take advantage of our fantastic outdoor and indoor dining spaces while soaking in the incredible views. Check out everything that is on offer at both Novelli’s restaurant and The Terrace with their carefully curated menus and extensive wine and cocktail lists. Whether you’re a local resident, visiting the city for Belfast Pride 2024 or a city break, AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast is the perfect place to celebrate, dine, and create memories.

For reservations and more information

Telephone: 028 9531 3180

Email: reservations@achotelbelfast.com

Website: www.achotelbelfast.com

About AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast

AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast is a contemporary city centre hotel located on the beautiful Belfast waterfront. The hotel provides excellent accommodation, stunning views and a relaxed dining experience. For further information and to book, visit our website www.achotelbelfast.com

At the Lyric Theatre, we pride ourselves on being a ‘Playhouse For All’. Our commitment includes amplifying the voices of the LGBTQIA+ community, providing them with a platform to share their stories on stage, and supporting their essential work.

In 2023, our dedication to this cause was recognised at The Stage Theatre Awards, where we won Theatre of the Year, in recognition of many aspects including audience development for our productions of ‘This S**t Happens All The Time’ and ‘Big Man’, two ground-breaking pieces of new writing that explore the LGBTQIA+ experience. That same year, we also received the ‘Business Contribution to the Community’ award at the GNI Awards.

The Lyric Theatre will always be a welcoming space for the LGBTQIA+ community, as we continue our unwavering support and advocacy.

PENNEYS

This year, Penneys is proud to pledge €175,000 to various local charities across Europe and the US, all dedicated to supporting the LGBTQI+ community

PENNEYS CELEBRATES THE POWER OF BEING YOU THIS PRIDE

This year’s campaign celebrates the joy of authenticity, self-expression, and living in a way that says ‘this is me’ every day. Penneys will donate almost €300,000 to charities across Europe and the US, dedicated to supporting the LGBTQI+ community, including €20,000 to support Belong To, Ireland’s national LGBTQ+ youth organisation. The retailer has launched a new inclusive clothing and accessory collection featuring slogan t-shirts, stylish crochet tops and a range of gender-neutral base wear.

30th May 2024: As Pride celebrations kick off across Europe, Penneys is celebrating the joy of dressing, accessorising and living in an authentic way, with a new campaign. Centring on the message - Be Authentic, Be Proud, Be You – the campaign showcases the power of self-expression and represents the diversity of the brand’s colleagues and customers.

This year, Penneys is proud to pledge €175,000 to various local charities across Europe and the US, all dedicated to supporting the LGBTQI+ community, as we work towards a future where everyone can be their authentic selves. As part of this, the retailer will donate €20,000 to Belong To - LGBTQ+ Youth Ireland. Belong To supports LGBTQ+ young people between 14 and 23 years olds through youth work, a family support service, education and campaigns..

Penneys will also donate a further €115,000 to its long-term charity partner, ILGA World, the International

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association, as they press forward to advance equity and equality for those in the community. This is the sixth year of Penneys’ partnership with ILGA World and takes the retailer’s contribution to LGBTQI+ charities to over €1 million since 2018.

The new collection launching alongside the campaign includes clothing across adults and kids, as well as must-have accessories like hats, socks and bags, designed to be worn time and time again. Customers can also pick up limited-edition Pride reusable cleansing pads, perfect for make-up or glitter removal.

New to the collection are a rainbow crochet shirt and vest set, as well as a selection of t-shirts, inspired by music legends. Also returning this year is Penneys’ gender-neutral base wear range, which can be worn as underwear or outerwear and is made from Lycra’s adaptive elastane, offering stretch and recovery properties to fit different shapes and sizes. Available from 2XS – 2XL, the inclusive range includes two seam free tops, a pair of shorts and unitard and is designed to be accessible and affordable to as many people as possible, with prices starting from €4.50.

Charlie Magadah-Williams, Head of Diversity & Inclusion at Primark said: “This year, we really wanted to capture that special moment when how we look on the outside represents exactly how we feel on the inside, and the pride that unlocks. Authenticity is at the heart of our campaign, from the beautiful imagery and storytelling to our inclusive

range of products and our pledge to support LGBTQI+ charities across Europe and the US. For us, Pride is more than just a month of festivities; it represents a year-round commitment to our LGBTQI+ colleagues and customers, championing equal rights and opportunities. From our products to our policies, it’s all about making sure everyone experiences the joy of finding somewhere they belong.”

The retailer collaborated with its LGBTQI+ colleague network, which provides a safe space for members of the community and their allies to feel represented, supported and heard, in the development of this year’s range and campaign. Colleagues will participate in Pride events in 16 cities across its markets, including Dublin, Krakow, Brooklyn and Madrid. The brand will also host customerfacing events in a selection of stores, celebrating Pride with the LGBTQI+ community in multiple locations.

The collection lands in all Penneys stores nationwide from the 1st June with prices starting from €4.50 for clothing and €1.30 for accessories in the range.

For more information, visit www. primark.com/en-ie.

Pride Fashion...

Pride Fashion...

The latest pride trends from Primark / penneys

The latest pride trends from Primark / penneys

The latest pride trends from Primark / penneys

Pride Fashion...

or www.primark.com/en-ie

MARTIN K

Alas, Pride season is here once more. As I gaze out my office window, I see grey clouds, check if the radiator is on, and zip up my jacket. Ah yes, it’s that perfect Pride season weather, NOT!. Looks more like ‘stay in and binge-watch Netflix’ season. But hey, we’re still a couple of weeks away from Belfast Pride. May our gay Goddess, Sarah Jessica Parker, bless us with a warm, sunny day with the occasional sun shower. That way, we can all pretend we’re extras in a Step-Up movie, hair flicks aplenty. After the drizzle, we get a perfect excuse for a costume change into our nighttime outfits or just strip down to reveal an even sluttier version of what we had on before.

This summer rain shower also gives us the chance to re-style our new thick luscious hair from Turkey, change wigs, clip back in our extensions, or turn our trucker caps backwards. All realistic sights on a typical Saturday in Belfast, let alone Pride. The whole week of Pride is fantastic and great for the community, with a wide range of events, workshops, seminars, plays, and more. But if you’re like me and think leaving the house on a school night is blasphemy unless it’s a Tuesday trip to the pictures, then you’re in luck! I’ve compiled a list of some great movies that you’ve probably watched to death. But we gays just can’t get enough of these gay cult classics, can we?

Monday night’s movie: The Devil Wears Prada. You know it by heart—the bitchy one-liners we’ll be recycling all Pride season. I don’t need to say more. Tuesday, watch whatever you want; I’m at the cinema. Wednesday night’s mid-week pick is Miss Congeniality starring Sandra Bullock. It screams metaphor for anyone who has never been to Pride—a fish-out-ofwater story, all mousy and shy, transforming into a swan by parade day.

we unite, we dance, we party, we keep her lit. By Sunday, all you’ll want is a duvet day watching Sex and the City and Calamity Jane. The fear and horror of Monday will come slowly, but it’ll pass because I’m sure the fun and joy we had was worth it.

This summer rain shower also gives us the chance to re-style our new thick luscious hair from Turkey, change wigs, clip back in our extensions, or turn our trucker caps backwards.

Please note, this column is the opinion of the columinst and not that of GNI or Romeo & Julian

Thursday night’s film: the cult classic Showgirls with Elizabeth Berkley. You know, that girl from Saved by the Bell? Well, she’s a dirty kitty in this one. This film represents the ambitious overachiever Pride attendee who plans to make it all about them. Friday, maybe get your battle cries and armour ready for Saturday’s parade. So perhaps a documentary like Paris is Burning, or one on conversion camps, Harvey Milk, or the Stonewall riots.

Saturday, we celebrate, we march, we demand better,

Or you could always head to Maverick and finish Pride off with a fantastic drag show on Sunday afternoons. Onya Becks and Coral Hole Mandi host a great afternoon, then you can watch those films afterward.

Have a happy and safe Pride, everyone.

Martin Kearney

With pride angels looking down on us during this glorious month, we need to give them a bit of a show! Sure, they are going to love the parade and the many, many festivities and events going on around our lovely little island – but what about the pre and post festivities.

Whatever you are doing, and how ever you are celebrating, we have the ultimate songs for you to sing loud (and proud) this month.

It would be wrong to not start off to a head nod to last year’s pride anthem. The lovely, stunning icon that is Miss Kylie Minogue with Padam Padam. With it’s catchy beat, gender ambiguity and made-up words, we all ate it up and danced our socks off. I would expect to hear it at least twice in every bar, club or street party, but it does still make us want to boogie, so we will allow it.

Miss Kylie is not the only gay icon I would expect to be hearing through. We are spoiled for choices with pretty much the entire discography of Lady Gaga, Hayley Kiyoko or Girl in Red. But we also have our artists who may not be as obvious but are still very much loved in the LGBTQIA+ community such as Harry Styles, Billy Joel or Queen.

We can’t speak about music that gives us pride vibes without bringing up the most recent Eurovision song contest – after all, according to ITV, it is the ‘Gay Olympics’. The Swiss artist Nemo came out on top with their song ‘The Code’. Nemo became famous practically overnight in Switzerland following an appearance on SRF Virus. They quickly released 2 EP’s which shot them right into the Swiss Single’s charts. Through their music, they explore themes that we can all relate to – struggling with your mental health, figuring out your identity and trying to figure out what life is all about, and where we fit in it. Their winning song let us know how they ‘went to hell and back’ trying to figure out who they were, but they have now ‘broken the code’ and ‘found paradise’. And there is nothing more you could wish for.

Although, speaking of Eurovision we can’t forget our home-grown Olly Alexander – who announced at Radio One’s Big Weekend he is leaving Years and Years behind, and will now be performing and giving us all the vibes under his own name. We were lucky enough to catch-up with him during his first solo venture ‘Night Call’ – while he was still under Years and Years – and who knows, maybe next time we will get to meet just Olly. After his performance at the Big Weekend – we would be honoured to. His cover of ‘It’s A Sin’ by The Pet Shop Boys was sensational and a must mention. During pride month it is important to celebrate how far we have come, and that is exactly what Olly’s performance showed. In 1987 The Pet Shop Boy’s wrote it as a ‘camp joke’ based on their experiences with religion growing up, and feeling like they couldn’t do anything right. Tennant has said that maybe there was subconsciously more to it than that. Olly took Tennant’s subconscious and poured it all over the stage for us – and bravo to him. He may have nil points in Eurovision, but he has millions of them in our hearts.

With all of the wonderful, amazing and talented icons we have within the community, we have to remember that we have further to go. There is still a massive stigma, maybe not within society, but in the music industry surrounding explicitly LGBTQIA+ artists. Record companies and music producers are often still wary, or backwards, when it comes to allowing artists to sing about the same gender openly and brazenly. It is all hidden in gender neutral pronouns and innuendos. A great example of this is Sam Smith’s first album – with classic songs such as ‘I know I’m not the only one’ and ‘Stay with me’ having a lack of male or female pronouns – it’s all ‘baby’ and ‘darling’ and ‘you’. Now, I am not arguing against gender neutral pronouns – but it does beg the question, especially after the artists very open journey of discovery afterwards – who was it being sung to, and was there some censorship going on?

Record companies are constantly changing lyrics to be sexually ambiguous rather than just letting a gay man sing about a man – why? Money and Power. The more ambiguous, the more people relate, and the less hateful people boycott. Now, there are lots and lots of songs that are not gender

or sexually ambiguous, but is there enough? And are they on the radio – are they given the same platform? Not necessarily.

The music we listen to, the music we love, is a reflection of ourselves. Music is the main thing that people turn to when they are feeling anything. Happy songs, sad songs, getting ready to party songs – the list goes on and on. When we aren’t sure how we are feeling, when we can’t put what we are feeling into words, or even thoughts, where do we turn? We turn to music. Music helps us not only feel our emotions, but understand them, and feel less alone because someone else has felt that way too. The censorship of LGBTQIA+ music stops that, limits that, makes it harder to feel, makes it harder to understand, to relate to. Heterosexuals have millions and millions of love songs, on the radio, in Tesco – they are bombarded with artists singing about their feelings. Where are our millions of songs? Why aren’t they overplayed in Tesco or on the radio?

What happens when you don’t get enough representation of who you are?

When you have nobody to relate to – you project. There are a lot of artist’s sexuality being called into question, whether that may or may not be true.

Taylor Swift fans have said that her song ‘The Very First Night’ was written about a woman because of the lyrics ‘didn’t read the note on the polaroid picture/they don’t know how much I miss you’ – as is sounds like it was originally meant to say ‘I miss her’ as it rhymes better. There are arguments and conspiracies over who she is singing about, and if her label censored her. But what if she is just straight? What if she’s on the spectrum? What if she is just figuring it out and isn’t sure herself? Another example of this is Mr Harry Styles – there are constant conversations, rumours, ‘ships’ about him and who he is or isn’t dating, and whether he is or isn’t straight. Maybe the only persons sexuality that matters is your own (and your partners of course). Maybe, instead of questioning who or who isn’t on the spectrum, we keep pushing for the day when it doesn’t matter to anyone or any industry.

Where is the playlist? I hear you ask.

Hold on, let me cook,

Here is a variation of banging songs to sing loud and proud, from very obvious to read-between-the-lines classics.

Knock or dance your socks off – and have a very Happy Pride.

“YMCA” – The Village People

“Girls/girls/boys” – Panic! At the Disco.

“I Kissed a Girl” - Katy Perry, she also dedicated her song Firework’ to LGBTQIA+ youth, so it’s worth a listen as well.

“Wrabel” – TheVvillage

“Him” - Sam Smith

“Lola” – The Kinks

“Forrest Gump” – Frank Ocean

“Fever” – Adam Lambert

“Born this way” – Lady Gaga

“That’s what I want” – Lil Nas X

“Real” – Years and Years

“Something about him” – Brockhampton

“And I love him” – Ben Gibbard

“Handsome Man” – Matt Alber

“Tongue” – MNEK

“Want 2” – Bronze Avery

“Hot Water” – Baum

“Cherry” – Rina Sawayama

“Jenny (I Wanna Ruin Our Friendship)” – Studio Killers

“Come To My Window” – Melissa Etheridge

“Constant Craving” – K.D Lang

“I’d Be Your Wife” – Mary Lambert

“Her” – Dizzy Fae

“Make Me Feel” – Janelle Monáe

“True Colours” – Cyndi Lauper

“Somebody to love” – Freddie Mercury

SCOTT

‘GRUMPY OLD BUGGER’

I’D FORGOTTEN ABOUT THE DEADLINE FOR THIS ARTICLE. I’D PUSHED IT INTO MY LITTLE MENTAL BOX OF ‘THINGS I REALLY OUGHT TO MAKE A START ON…AT SOME POINT’. IT’S NO LONGER A LITTLE BOX. IN FACT, IT MAKES THAT ROOM AT THE END OF RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK WITH ALL THE CRATES IN LOOK LIKE A PORTAKABIN.

Easy little jobs that would take me five minutes. Like cleaning the microwave. Or making a doctor’s appointment. They would take five minutes if I did them when they first cropped up…but I don’t. I prefer to forget about them until they’re no longer five minute jobs. I prefer to wait until the smoke detector is going off and flames are billowing out of the kitchen or doctors are rushing you into an operating theatre for emergency surgery.

Things get buried in that box and you forget all about them. Parking fines. Anniversaries. I’ve also realised, the older you get, the less time you have to do things. Time passes faster.

No really, bear with me. What I mean is your perception of a unit of time changes. Think about it. When you’re ten years old, and you break up for the school holidays, that extended break seemed to last forever. But back then a year represented a tenth of your life. Six or eight weeks off school naturally felt like forever. Do you remember that last Friday at school before the holidays? I used to walk home from school that last day feeling like I was a lottery winner. You couldn’t have knocked the smile off my face with a cricket bat.

When you’re 52, and you’ve been round the track so often you can’t jump the fences any more, six weeks is nothing. I think I’ve waited longer than that for a Just Eat driver to show up. So it was quite a surprise when our editor Daniel nudged me to say the deadline for this article was looming.

‘It’s the Pride edition’ he began. As my head filled with images of Prides gone by… ill-fitting hot pants, lesbians fighting over chips and people with what I assume to be ‘great personalities’ blowing whistles in my face, he casually cut me off at the knees with something along the lines of, ‘With you being from the Jurassic era you might want to talk about what Pride used to be like…in olden times.’

Before I could summon up a ‘How very dare you’, the article started writing itself. How in my day we didn’t have apps and access to gay ‘literature’ or media. We had to get our porn from drawings on a cave wall. How it wasn’t so much about if your were top or bottom but whether you walked on all fours or upright. Whether you had an excess of Neanderthal DNA. Side note, apparently I do, (thanks 23 and me) hence the big fat head, T-Rex arms and barrel chest.

made a few quid.

No, unfortunately a rapidly deteriorating hip joint had me stood swaying in the wind, balancing precariously on a stick like an old drunk. As I marvelled at the sights before me I realised my only (real) point of reference was the many Manchester Prides I had attended in the past. An event that if I reach back far enough I being called ‘Mardi Gras’, a free to

We knew then, as we should know now, that it doesn’t matter if one group are bound by sexuality and the other aren’t. They were bound by a common persecution...

Please note, this column is the opinion of the columinst and not that of GNI or Romeo & Julian Publiccations Ltd.

I cast my mind into the more recent past and was reminded of last year’s Pride. My first in Belfast. I showed up with a cane.

As a walking aid I mean. I wasn’t administering spankings, though never say never. Had I thought ahead I could have

attend event that somehow managed to raise more money for HIV charities via collections on the day using volunteers with buckets, than the current one is alleged to raise now (the money all seemingly swallowed up with security and performers fees with a fraction going to charity). Over time, the street party got ‘managed’, policed and in making the obvious connection to the worldwide ‘Pride’ celebrations somehow simultaneously lost its way. No longer a protest, but a piss up.

And let’s not forget, back in 1969 it was indeed a protest. A police raid on the Stonewall Inn, NYC, sparked six days of

protest and clashes with law enforcement. The aftermath leading to the creation of the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR) which provided support to homeless LGBTQ+ youth and advocated for transgender rights.

I had the misfortune recently of attending Blackpool Pride. It’s my own fault, I wasn’t paying attention when someone suggested we go. I heard, ‘Ride the big one’ and it seems I misunderstood.

If anywhere didn’t need a riot, its Blackpool. It looks like it’s just had one. I’ve been in some rough bars in my time, but I’d not send convicts to Blackpool. There’s talk of housing refugees from war torn countries there. Like they haven’t suffered enough. Never mind Rwanda, suggest Blacpool and nobody will cross the channel again. I’ve seen less mutants in Fallout. If you smile, and you have teeth, they think you’re posh.

At least here in Belfast the atmosphere is welcoming. Ultimately it’s a parade, drinking and a higher than usual concentration of homosexuals. What could possibly go wrong. You get the same basic ingredients wherever you go, its just in Belfast people seemed more happy. Pleased to be out. When it comes to ‘having a good time’, you lot don’t need telling twice.

I found myself trying to analyse what was different and just kept coming up with similarities. The corporate sponsorship was still there. Tesco pushing their lettuce, guacamole, bacon and tomato ‘LGBT’ sandwich (good luck with the extra letters next year. Quinoa on a sandwich anyone? Quiche? ). I saw a Stena Line float. Moving slightly faster than the actual thing I get here on.

Most notably, amongst the various organisations keen to show their alliance with the community, PSNI weren’t represented. I made a point of checking why and saw they had released a statement to say that ‘officers and staff can participate in such events provided they do so in a personal capacity and do not identify as members of the Police Service’

On the one hand I felt a little aggrieved by that. Almost that they had to hide who they were. Yes

you can be gay…but you can’t be gay AND a police officer. On the other hand, oddly, somewhat reassured. You could argue that the police taking this stance demonstrates they still recognise Pride for what it is…was, a protest. If they were part of it, how could they then be impartial in policing it?

That evolution from protest to party isn’t the only development that’s been discussed of late. The flag becoming another oddly polarising subject. How could something so inoffensive as a rainbow get so many peoples backs up for so many reasons. It’ll be unicorns and glitter next. Mark my words, five years from now I’ll have to write gli**er or risk a martini to the face by someone covered in the sparkly stuff.

On the one hand you have the new and ‘inclusive’ flag, with more obvious representation for people of colour and the transgender community, without whom let’s not forget we wouldn’t have a pride in the first place. On the other, you have, mainly older people, saying the original was inclusive. That it’s a spectrum and didn’t need changing. It’s generally white cis men saying it. Well, not saying…telling. Telling people who don’t feel included that they are included.

They’ll be telling you your gender next. Oh wait, they already do. Mind you, as long as you don’t identify as police, at least you can still walk in the parade.

You hear those same people flexing that they have ‘Never attended a pride’. The only inference I can draw being that they somehow perceive them themselves to be more outwardly masculine or manly by virtue of being a miserable git. They tend to marry it with other great one liners such as ‘People never guess I’m gay’. Newsflash, They do. They just don’t want to burst your little self-loathing bubble. Nodding benevolently when you’re busy proclaiming you must be the ‘only one who doesn’t like [Kylie / Madonna / Drag Race etc etc] . If you don’t like something, that’s fine. If you start criticising others for liking something and looking down on them as a result, that’s not fine.

So what’s my takeaway from all this? Well regardless of the creative licence of ‘who threw the first brick’,

there is no denying that in 1969 gay and trans people stood side by side. We knew then, as we should know now, that it doesn’t matter if one group are bound by sexuality and the other aren’t. They were bound by a common persecution and started a fight that is not yet over. It may often be subtle, it may be something you can deal with, but in parts of the world it’s life or death.

Those early protesters were targeted simply for being who they were. As gay people we owe it to our trans peers to stand up and be counted. Its not that long ago our very lifestyles were illegal. Lets not get too comfortable because our own little world is better than it was. You don’t have to understand someone else’s gender. You don’t have to like it.

You do however owe them your support – like they supported you.

Who knows…you might just make some friends.

Scott Aldred

elebrating Pride doesn’t have to be going to the Parade’s and drag shows and massive colourful events – some of us are introverts – so for those of us that think that the perfect pride is curling up on the sofa with far too many snacks – here are some excellent movie recommendations that fit the theme – and are also excellent for those of you that have gone to the parade and are feeling a little delicate afterwards.

We are starting right off the bat with an absolute classic – Rent. Rent is genuinely one of my favourite movies, it has me laughing, crying and singing along all at the same time. It follows a year – or 525,600 minutes – in the life of a group of friends living in the East Village of New York. We have our narrator in the form of Mark Cohen, a film-maker who is still very much in love with his ex-girlfriend, Maureen Johnston. But alas, she is in love with her polar opposite, a very prim and proper lawyer, Joanne Jefferson. We also have his roommate – ex-junkie and HIV positive struggling musician Roger Davis and his girlfriend, Mimi, who is also HIV positive, a dancer, and addicted to drugs. We also have Angel – a drag queen and Tom – a computer nerd, who are both living with HIV as well. The storyline, as you probably have guessed, explores the AIDS epidemic in the year of 1989-1990 in a way that will have your heart breaking and your eyes watering – in a way which is both heavy and heartbreaking but also doesn’t make you feel to bad because you will have the songs stuck in your head for the entirety of Pride month – did I mention it was a musical? The sensational way that this movie brings together a bunch of seemingly very different people is smack bang in the middle of the meaning of Pride – we measure in love.

Dead Poet’s Society is another great watch – It does not explicitly state that any of the characters are gay but it can be very relatable, especially for those of us that struggled because we were told that we ‘didn’t like the right things for our gender’, or any of us that were made to feel lesser than. It follows a group of schoolboys who are inspired to show the world the real them and to pursue their passions by their English teacher. However, the boarding school they attend is very strict – and the ideals are, well, not on progressive side. The boy’s passions may not be looked upon as acceptable for young men. The boys struggle through various tragedies on their journey as they try to find their place in this world. I won’t spoil it, but it is not necessarily the happy-go-lucky coming of age story that we so often see, it is heartbreaking and potentially triggering for some, so grab tissues and, if needed, a trusted friend.

If you are a sucker for a rom-com filled to the brim with classic tropes and moments where you yell at the TV, “Why won’t you two kiss already?!” – you need to watch Red, White and Royal Blue. The Prince of England

and The President of the United States Son – a strong hatred for each other – forced to spend time together to fake a political alliance. Smile for the camera’s boys. You see where this is going. They may or may not fall in love. However, being thrusted full force into the public eye, their families opinions, and the need to uphold tradition would cause problems in any relationship. Will they overcome it? Will they not? An absolute must watch for all the gooey romantics - and the lovers of shameless flirting.

If you can get over the subtitles, an absolutely sensational film is Blue is The Warmest Colour. It is another coming of age tale of high school student Adèle beginning her journey into life, womanhood and sex. She begins as seemingly straight but after a slight rendezvous with a male classmate, it seems she may not know herself, or her sexuality, as well as she thinks. And in walks Emma, an out and proud lesbian with bright blue hair. The movie follows their journey into adulthood navigating unaccepting friends, sexuality and the emotions that always crop up when you fall in love. It is heartwarming, dramatic, and extremely highly recommended. It has won an award at the Cannes Film Festival and Steven Spielberg’s approval – neither of which is an easy task, so you know it is going to be excellent.

Another few other fantastic watches are Call Me By Your Name, Brokeback Mountain or Everybody’s Talking About Jamie – but Pride doesn’t have to be celebrated within a 2 hour time frame – if you prefer a series binge over a movie, we have loads of those too!

Now we can’t talk about LGBTQIA+ representation in programming without mentioning Grey’s Anatomy. Spanning 20 seasons it has been going on since 2005 now, and it has brought us many many LGBTQIA+ characters and relationships. From Arizona and Callie to Micah and Helm – from Levi and Nico to Amelia and Kai. They’ve had storylines surrounding HIV myths and perceptions, the difficulty in legally changing pronouns and just about everything in between. Whatever they are doing, with that long a run, it must be something right.

Another great example that shows the journey from being in the closet to being out and proud is Sex Education with the characters of Adam and Eric. While Eric is out and proud from the beginning of the series – Adam struggles a bit more and turns to bullying others – another classic trope. Although how good of a trope it is? Debatable at best. However, through the seasons we get to see them explore their sexuality, culminating in that all-too-important first time. With the importance however, so to comes nerves and worry, and Sex Education does a good job of highlighting that in all relationships, communication is key – but that we should start extending our own sex education to include

the LGBTQIA+ community to make that communication a little bit easier.

In this day and age, it is becoming more and more common to see the LGBTQIA+ community being represented in our favourite movies and TV shows. A lot of the stigma has been taken away, and due to the demand for representation, the industry has responded by giving us what we want, to see ourselves in our favourite characters, and to have characters that we can relate to. However, we also have to consider that not all representation is good representation.

There are still an unbelievable number of shows that have the ‘token gay character’. One of the best examples, and jokes, surrounding this is in the movie ‘Isn’t It Romantic’. At the beginning of the movie, when life is boring and grey, the main character has a gay neighbour, and he is nothing remarkable, he isn’t stereotypical, he is simply a guy that likes guys and doesn’t really talk much. When she hits her head and falls into a life where everything is like a movie, he is suddenly a neon-Lycra wearing, high-pitched talking, over-the-top gay best friend – to which the main character responds with “Now I have a gay sidekick, who’s setting gay right back, like a hundred years”.

While ‘Isn’t It Romantic’ pokes at the gay best friend trope in a hilarious way – why is this still a trope we are seeing? In more and more TV shows we see LGBTQIA+ characters – but they are always the best friend, always the side character, and often weird, or poked fun at. For example, in ‘Never Have I Ever’ – we get a wonderful, smart, lesbian character in Fabiola Torres, but she’s the best friend, and shown to be a bit weird and nerdy. However, the opposite is true of ‘Ginny and Georgia’ –where yes, it is the best friend, but Maxine Baker is cool, bubbly and popular.

All of this to say, where are our LGBTQIA+ main characters – that are cool and complex and not just there to hit a diversity quota or be available whenever the main character is in a crisis. We have come a very long way. The first gay couple wasn’t even shown on a TV until 1975, the first gay kiss in the UK wasn’t until 1989. That’s only 35 years ago. We have come leaps and bounds in terms of representing what is actually there. Gay people, lesbians, bisexuals, queers, the trans community, asexual and every single one of you lovely humans that fall into the + in the acronym. But until we have genuine inclusivity and diversity, and every single one of you has a main character you can relate to, we need to keep leaping and bounding.

Written by Megane Herrick

PROUD ProgramMEs

L London... Pride in London Unveils 2024 Campaign: #WeAreEverywhere

ONDON, 31 May 2024 — Pride in London, the organisers of the UK’s largest and most diverse Pride event, today introduced its 2024 Campaign: #WeAreEverywhere. The campaign shines a light on the presence of London’s LGBTQ+ community, and the power they have to be drivers of change by living authentically and without apology.

The United Kingdom has been backsliding on LGBTQ+ rights every single year since 2015, according to ILGA-Europe’s Rainbow Map. Trans and non-binary people are being increasingly dehumanised and targeted in political rhetoric, all while their fundamental rights are rapidly being eroded. Our Government has pledged to implement policy essentially banning the discussion of gender identity in schools. Even the act of civil servants wearing a rainbow lanyard is being called “political.”

To that, this campaign says: We are everywhere — and if living our lives honestly and openly is being questioned, we will respond by showing up louder and more

unapologetically than ever before.

“This campaign confronts the increasing attacks on the queer community, particularly those who are trans and non-binary. #WeAreEverywhere underlines that our community is not a political talking point— we are a vital part of the fabric of London, powering our city every day,” said Christopher Joell-Deshields, CEO of Pride in London. “In these urgent and unjust times, and ahead of July’s general election, this campaign and our upcoming Parade are a reminder of the power, importance and presence of our community.”

The #WeAreEverywhere campaign will feature everyday Londoners who may not be making headlines, but are making a difference in their communities day after day simply by showing up as their authentic selves. Through striking visuals and moving storytelling, their impact will be brought to light across the capital through out-of-home advertising, press, digital platforms, and social media throughout Pride Month in the lead up to the Pride in London 2024 Parade. In the spirit of the campaign’s message of showing up and taking up space, Pride in London also invites everyone in the queer community to get involved by sharing their moments of everyday pride on social media with the hashtag #WeAreEverywhere.

and organisations that are working to make a difference, big or small, including through the Unity Awards and Pride in the City.

Taking place on the 29th of June, the Pride in London 2024 Parade promises to be a striking demonstration of LGBTQ+ pride and solidarity, proudly reminding all of London that #WeAreEverywhere. More details on the Parade will be coming soon.

The campaign extends the work Pride in London has been doing throughout the year to support and amplify the impact of LGBTQ+ individuals

A EUROPE

THE

MUST-SEE PRIDE CELEBRATIONS ACROSS EUROPE THIS SUMMER! PRIDE MONTH IS HERE!

lthough it’s important to celebrate all year, this month is the perfect opportunity to honour those who came before us — those who laid the tracks to a better, more equal and safer world for all.

The history of Gay Pride

The global phenomenon that is Gay Pride started with one simple brick thrown. In 1969, LGBTQ+ individuals were unable to live and love openly, so they sought solace and safety in queer-friendly spaces. However, even these havens were not always safe. On a fateful day in June 1969, New York City police raided the Stonewall Inn, one such queer-friendly space. While such raids were common, this time the patrons resisted arrest. Tensions escalated into violence and riots that lasted several nights, with the movement gaining momentum and supporters each night.

This riot marked a turning point in history. The Gay Liberation Front (GLF) and the Gay Activists Alliance (GAA) emerged from this movement. A year later, the first Christopher Street Liberation Day march was organised, leading to the Pride marches we see today in cities and towns around the world. These parades feature floats, parties, demonstrations, concerts, exhibitions, workshops, activities and open-air festivities, but the beauty is that each Pride celebration has its own unique culture and identity. So if you have seen one, you definitely have not seen them all!

Who is welcome at Pride?

Everyone, of course! Pride is a celebration for the entire queer community, activists and allies. It’s a time to come together and show support. While there are many family-friendly activities, it’s important to note that not all events are suitable for all ages.

Pride is more than just a celebration with parties and dancing. It includes panels on important topics such as legal rights, intersectionality, mental health and more. It’s a reminder that we’re not free until we’re all free. Millions of people still live without rights protecting who they are and who they love, including same-sex marriage.

Travelling to different Pride events broadens our horizons and deepens our understanding of diverse backgrounds and perspectives. It also offers the chance to connect with LGBTQ+ citizens worldwide and enjoy incredible shows and events.

Travel with Pride

Pride Month, usually celebrated in June but varying by city and country, is an ideal time to explore new destinations and immerse yourself in the LGBTQIA+ history, present and future of the region. Plus, you can enjoy the summer weather and connect with like-minded locals.

LGBTQIA+ travel in Europe: safety tips

While many European cities are quite queerfriendly, some places are more conservative, and cultural differences may pose other challenges that you may not experience in your home country. Here are some suggestions to ensure smooth, safe travel through Europe as a member (or an ally) of the LGBTQIA+ community:

• Find out the legal LGBTQIA+ rights and the general attitudes in the countries you want to visit.

• Book accommodation that is clearly listed as LGBTQIA+ friendly.

• Utilise LGBTQIA+ travel resources, like the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA), Spartacus International Gay Guide and local resources.

• Share your travel itinerary with a loved one.

• We hope for a future where the LGBTQIA+ community can travel as freely and securely as any other. Until then, we are grateful for the ever-growing Pride celebrations that show us a brighter future ahead.

We wish you all a happy, safe Pride season! Which European Pride are you headed to?

Paris Pride

Parade date: 29 June

Celebrate who you are in Paris, the city of love – all love! Marche des Fiertés, the Parisian Pride festival, is one of the oldest Pride celebrations in Europe, dating back to 1977. The Pride parade winds through some of Paris’s most iconic avenues,

allowing marchers to take in landmarks like Place de la République and Place de la Bastille while they celebrate.

This year’s Pride will be a bit different, as much of the city is already adorned for this summer’s biggest sporting events. But that won’t stop us (yes, our headquarters are in Paris) from celebrating!

The best place to find LGBTQIA+ events all year long, especially during Pride, is in Le Marais. This vibrant neighborhood is home to many of the city’s LGBTQIA+ bars and clubs, offering a lively atmosphere for all.

Travel to Paris by train!

Madrid Pride

Dates: 28 June-7 July

Pride Parade: 6 July

Madrid, a famously open and accepting city, celebrates Pride like no other. Madrid Pride, also known as MADO, transforms the streets with poetry, puppetry, dancing and more. The parade travels along the iconic Paseo del Prado, offering a scenic route through one of Madrid’s most famous calles.

Experience epic concerts and drag shows at one of the six enormous stages set up just for the event. Most activities take place in the vibrant gay neighborhood of Chueca, where the atmosphere is loud and proud, drawing over 2 million people each year.

One popular event is the Feathers and Paws parade, which fights against discrimination not only towards the LGBTQIA+ community but also against animal abuse. You’ll see hundreds of precious adopted pets walking proudly alongside their owners.

Travel to Madrid by train!

Berlin Pride

Parade date: 27 June

Berlin prides itself on being a multicultural and inclusive city, so it’s no surprise that Berlin Pride

is one of the biggest celebrations in Europe—and the world! Berlin Pride has grown significantly from its first year, which saw around 450 attendees, to now expecting around half a million participants. The parade route passes by iconic landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate and Victory Column, offering tourists a free city tour along the way. New Yorkers will recognise the name of this celebration, the Christopher Street Day (CSD), as honoring the street where the Stonewall riots took place.

Expect epic concerts, DJs and performances. And if you don’t make it to the main event, there are endless after-parties where you can dance the night away. One of the standout events is Euphoria, a 25,000 square metre space completely dedicated to Pride events and celebrations. For those looking for a smaller yet equally impactful experience, Kreuzberg Pride is another fantastic option in Berlin.

Travel to Berlin by train!

Amsterdam Pride

Dates: 27 July-4 August

March date: 27 July

This year marks the 27th Amsterdam Pride, a celebration that promises to be unforgettable. If you are looking for one of the most unique Pride experiences, look no further than the Amsterdan Pride Canal Parade. It takes place in the afternoon and features 80 fabulously-decorarted floats travelling down the city’s iconic canals. This family-friendly event is a must-see, so be sure to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, as it is standing room only along the canals.

The Pride celebrations do extend beyond the canals, moving into the gay neighborhoods for numerous events and concerts. This year, around half a million people are expected to celebrate Pride in Amsterdam, making it one of the biggest, most inclusive events of the year.

Travel to Amsterdam by train!

Milan Pride

Pride March: 29 June

While Rome may be the capital of Italy, Milan proudly holds the title of the capital of gay culture in the country. This distinction explains why Milan Pride is not only the largest in Italy but also one of the most significant in all of Europe. The parade itself takes off from Milan’s Central Station and concludes at the Arco Della Pace, where festivities continue through the night.

Inclusion is at the forefront of this celebration, with all Pride events interpreted in Italian Sign Language and streamed live on the Milan Pride YouTube channel. Beyond the parade, there are numerous events, including drag shows, DJs, concerts, exhibitions and workshops covering everything from civil rights and LGBTQIA+ history to mental health and more.

Travel to Milan by train!

Reykjavik Pride

Dates: 6-11 August

Get this. One out of every three Icelandic citizens attends Reykjavik’s epic pride celebrations. Also known as Hinsegindagar, or queer days, this Pride is small but mighty. Combine Iceland’s small population with its passionate LGBTQIA+ community and allies, this Pride is also known as “the world’s biggest small Pride.” The event itself is one big fundraiser that donated any profit to support LGBTQIA+ communities.

More 2024 European Pride celebrations

Here are some other exciting pride events to add to your itinerary:

Helsinki Gay Pride

Dates: 24 - 30 June Parade date: 29 June

Antwerpen Pride

Dates: 7 - 11 August Parade date: 10 August

Gay Pride Prague

Dates: 5 - 11 August Parade date: 10 August

Credit: Rail Europe

Fast Track Cities... an important step in raising awareness around hiv

Fast Track Cities: Zero New HIV Diagnoses by 2030 is achievable Northern Ireland could lead the way, through United Nations AIDS declaration

Northern Ireland has been officially declared a Fast Track Region today (Tuesday 23 April 2024), with the signing of a United Nations AIDS (UNAIDS) declaration aimed at reaching zero new HIV diagnoses by 2030.

The Fast-Track Cities “Paris Declaration” was signed on behalf of Derry City and Strabane District Council by Deputy Mayor Councillor Jason Barr and by Councillor Ryan Murphy, Lord Mayor of Belfast City Council.

Fast-Track Cities is a global partnership involving cities and municipalities around the world. In Northern Ireland, the initiative is being led by the region’s only dedicated HIV charity, Positive Life. The most recent HIV report from the Public Health Agency* showed that in 2022 there were 1,348 people living with HIV in Northern Ireland, of whom 1,049 were men and 299 were women. In 2022, this included 52 people who hadn’t previously been diagnosed.

Jacquie Richardson, Chief Executive of Positive Life said,

“This is the most exciting step forward for HIV in Northern Ireland for decades. While there have been improvements in diagnosis and care, we cannot be complacent.

“There remains a real need for ongoing public awareness and education around the very serious health risks and impacts of HIV; secondly, a lot of work still needs to be done to break down the public stigma around HIV, which is based on many myths, prejudices and outdated misconceptions. These deeply affect the way individuals with HIV – and their families and friends - live their lives. Finally, we need to keep up the drive for regular HIV testing, because the statistics show that 1 in 3 people diagnosed in Northern Ireland were diagnosed at a late stage, meaning that they had the virus for some years prior to diagnosis.

“By joining in this global movement and with a stronger focus at a grassroots, community public health level, we firmly believe that Northern Ireland could achieve the Fast Track Cities goal of zero new HIV diagnoses in Northern Ireland by 2030. How amazing would that be for Northern Ireland?”

Speaking on behalf of Fast Track Cities, Dr. José M. Zuniga, President/CEO, IAPAC (International Assocation of Providers of AIDS Care) said, “IAPAC welcomes Belfast and Derry’s inclusion in the Fast-Track Cities network, which marks a pivotal step in Northern Ireland’s response to HIV and Hepatitis C (HCV). Their commitment to community, public health, and political leadership is critical as they strive to end their HIV epidemic and eliminate HCV infections by 2030. Together Northern Ireland’s two most populous cities exemplify the power of collaboration and solidarity to create healthier communities.”

Cork, Dublin, Galway and Limerick, along with major cities across the UK have been signed up to Fast Track Cities for several years. Internationally, work undertaken through various Fast Track HIV initiatives has shaped national HIV strategies and action plans.

The signing event in Belfast was attended by community health officers from councils across Northern Ireland, as well as sexual health clinicians and public health officials. The event also heard from three individuals who have benefited from the support of Positive Life. The three men shared their very personal experiences of living with HIV in Northern Ireland, in particular the stigma they have faced in all circles of their lives, from family and friends, to the workplace.

Jacquie Richardson of Positive Life commented, “For those who grew up in the 1980’s, we have come a very, very long way. However, stigma remains a serious concern for people affected by the virus and leads to feelings of shame and fear. We need to increase public awareness and ‘normalise’ the conversation around HIV. The key is knowledge, to get regularly tested and know your status, and to access treatment at

the earliest opportunity. Our hope is to wipe out new cases of HIV in Northern Ireland, but there is much work still to be done.”

Dr Rachel Coyle, Public Health Consultant at the PHA said,

“The developments in HIV treatment and care over the last few decades are astonishing. Today, someone diagnosed early with HIV will be able to access highly effective treatment which makes the virus undetectable, so they cannot pass HIV to a sexual partner. HIV is not a barrier to having relationships, to having children or to leading a full and healthy life. The public health message is U=U: Undetectable equals Untransmittable.”

Deputy Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Jason Barr said,

“The signing of this pledge is an important step in our journey to raise awareness of the issues about living with HIV, reducing the stigma for those affected, and making Northern Ireland a Fast Track Region. It places us alongside cities and regions across the globe working towards the United Nations goal on diagnosis and treatment of HIV and to promote good quality of life for people living with HIV.”

TAYLOR

HEY EVERYONE, BEFORE I START DISHING THE GOSS AND SPILLING THE TEA, I WANT TO WISH EVERYONE A VERY HAPPY AND SAFE PRIDE SEASON. I KNOW WE DON’T OFFICIALLY CELEBRATE OUR PRIDE HERE IN BELFAST UNTIL LATE JULY BUT LET’S FACE IT, EVERY WEEKEND YOU CAN FIND A CITY UP AND DOWN IRELAND AND THE UK CELEBRATING PRIDE FROM NOW UNTIL LATE SEPTEMBER, SO WE ARE BASICALLY AS A LARGER COMMUNITY CELEBRATING PRIDE FROM NOW UNTIL AUTUMN. JUNE, HOWEVER, IS OFFICIALLY RECOGNISED AS PRIDE MONTH AS IT COMMEMORATES THE STONEWALL UPRISING IN NEW YORK IN 1969 AND THE SUBSEQUENT RIOTS AND PRIDE MARCHES THAT OCCURRED IN THE AFTERMATH OF THE UPRISING.

FOOTNOTE: NO ONE DIED AT STONEWALL. HA HA.

Pride 2024, lets be honest…

So, here I find myself, sitting on my sofa with my little dogs, another Pride edition of GNI rolls around and another year writing this lovely little article containing my inner thoughts and feelings. I have to say, I am very grateful to have this space to journal my late 30s being a drag artist in Northern Ireland. The ups the downs and everything in between. I feel that I will look back one day and read these articles with nostalgia. I’ll look back at everything I have accomplished in the 4 years on this journey so far and be proud of myself. For me I find It’s hard to do at the time, I feel that sometimes when we are in the ‘rat race’ we forget to reflect, and I feel its important to catch yourself and acknowledge each little win and say to yourself “I DID THAT!”.

So this year for pride… I have to say, I am not feeling it as much as I usually do. There is a lot going on in my little life at present that has me worried and concerned for the future and I must be honest with myself and with you. There is a lot that I am thankful and grateful for, but mentally I’ve been struggling for a while. I’m in a period of huge change in my life and I’m frightened. I feel at times crippled with anxiety and have an inability to put myself first. I am lacking a bit of Self- love for myself at the minute, and I don’t feel like myself. I have so much content to post on social media, but I am blocking myself from posting it for some reason. I can’t figure out why my brain is disconnecting from itself. I know what I need to be doing, but just can’t do it. It’s very frustrating. I have a wonderful and supportive family and partner who are my rocks at the minute, and I am having therapy weekly to help me sort out my brain. I’m not always like this, but I am someone that feels emotions very deeply. I feel its cathartic for me to address my feelings with you in my little article, as I want to be an example that its ok not to be 100% all of the time, and its also ok to need a bit of help to get back on track. Acknowledging issues and working on them is not a sign of weakness. It’s a demonstration of strength and awareness.

one of the best ways to be a friend.

Master at Masking

It might surprise some of you reading this article to find out that I haven’t been feeling myself, because if you

I want to be an example that its ok not to be 100% all of the time, and its also ok to need a bit of help to get back on track.

Please note, this column is the opinion of the columinst and not that of GNI or Romeo & Julian Publiccations Ltd.

In summary for this section, Pride this year for me, is looking like a lot of self-work, reflection, and making plans for the future. I must remind myself that everything in life is only temporary and that feelings change. So, If you or any of your friends is having a tough time, reach out this pride season, be an ear and listen, its

Acknowledging issues and working on them is not a sign of weakness. It’s a demonstration of strength and awareness.

seen me in public on a night out or performing as Tailor you would not have a clue. I have become a master at masking emotions and putting a brave face on. I don’t do

it on purpose or consciously, it’s just something you do to protect yourself, lets face it, the last thing someone wants is a sad drag queen lol.

In saying everything I have above, I haven’t been sitting about doing nothing, I have been super busy and booked. From teaching makeup, Live QVC shows, my usual drag gigs and brunches to my very first UK Tour with DFIU Events and the incredible Marina Summers, the start of this summer has been a blast and its not slowing down any time soon.

Marina Summers UK tour

I am still recovering and pinching myself to be honest. In Late May this year I had the most amazing opportunity to tour the UK hosting for one of the most amazing talented Drag Queen’s I have ever met, Marina Summers (presented by DFIU Events). The entire experience was incredible. Each night we hit a different city with local talent performing alongside us and the audiences loved every minute. Marina was a joy to work with, her professionalism and attention to the finer details blew me away. I was so inspired. The performances, the outfits, the dancers, the lighting, all were next level. I learned so much about myself as a performer, down to stupid little things you wouldn’t even think of and those lessons are so valuable to take forward with me. Going on tour is something that I have been working towards ever since I started doing drag. I remember one of my first conversations with Kyle (the owner of DFIU Events) where I told him I would love to host a tour, and here we are just having finished our first tour together, and WOW what an experience.

Sasha Colby

If you want to experience a DFIU tour, you can come see the one and only Sasha Colby in September. Yes that’s right I’m off on tour again, hosting Sasha’s UK tour and I’m absolutely thrilled. You can grab your tickets @dfiuevents on Instagram.

Upcoming Gigs

I have the usual brunches and private gigs

coming up throughout the summer, but I am delighted to be performing @dublin Pride with Disco social for their famous day time pride party on June 29th. I also will be co hosting Stafford’s very first Pride in August which is going to be a blast. There also might be another cheeky tour coming up very soon, but I can’t say anything about it right now.

As usual thank you so much for reading and for catching up with me, and I hope to see some of you at an upcoming gig soon!

Loads of love

Tailor xoxo

Get your tickets for Sasha Colby tickets here @ www.dfiuevents.com

You can also find Tailor Maid on Instagram @totally.tailor Bookings on Instagram or via email jamesmcguigan@me.com.

TToday marked the launch of HappyFest 2024 —a groundbreaking event igniting a wellness revolution in Northern Ireland. As the post-pandemic world seeks greater connectivity and a unified approach to health and wellbeing, HappyFest steps forward. This will be a day-long, fun-filled family-friendly event to help improve your mind, body, and soul.

Now entering its third year, HappyFest, which is supported by Ards and North Down Borough Council, has evolved into a pivotal wellness movement within Northern Ireland. Taking place on Sunday 7th July 2024, at Crawfordsburn Activity Centre in Crawfordsburn Country Park, the event is expected to draw visitors from all over Ireland and the UK. Attendees will be treated to an uplifting, empowering celebration of health and healing.

Organised by wellness advocate Ciara Daly and her dedicated team, HappyFest 2024 aims to connect the Northern Ireland community with a diverse and varied selection of alternative therapies and healing practices, activities, workshops, fun and music. This year’s event promises to be bigger, better, and happier, marking a significant milestone in the wellness industry in Northern Ireland.

Speaking at the launch, Ciara Daly said: ““We are delighted to be officially launching HappyFest today – we have so many exciting things planned for this year. We have people from all ages and all walks of life signed up to deliver a whole range of workshops, including breathwork, mindset coaching, yoga,

workouts and alternative healing modalities.”

“As we emerge through these post-Covid years, the world is a very different place. There has been a lot of trauma, a lot of forced isolation and loneliness and the consequences of that haven’t even reached their full effects yet. My mission is to help people to know that there’s a whole world of help, there’s so many options beyond the doctor’s surgery. There are a vast selection of alternative therapies, community groups, wellness experts, and health professionals with practices and expertise available to everyone.

“I have experienced both sides of the happiness scale, with some of my own mental health struggles, and know it takes a village to support each person’s mental and physical health. That’s why I created this festival. And that’s what HappyFest is all about. It’s about hope, healing, happiness and community.

The event will feature over 50 exhibitors showcasing offerings from the alternative therapy world, nutrition, fitness, and more. “I’m excited to share some of the connections I’ve made through my own healing journey and through HappyFest. I believe that wellness and mental health don’t come with a one-size-fits-all prescription.”

The day-long event caters to all ages with live music, mindfulness activities for kids, face painting, art classes, food trucks, dancing, and fun performers. Neurodivergence experts will be available for young minds, while adults can enjoy inspiring speakers in an informal and relaxing speaker zone around the

campfire. Topics will range from fitness, relationships, and mindset to nutrition.

Attendees will also enjoy storytelling on mythical Irish folklore and music from beloved local artists like Belfast’s Busker, John Garrity, Amanda St John, and Tyrell Black, who will play instruments from around the world. There will also be mindset workshops from Deirdre Maguire, workouts from Michael Lyons, Momentum Fitness and yoga by Ciara Cruiks, BIA Yoga.

Ciara Daly concludes, “We are passionate about celebrating all the wonderful things life has to offer. It’s about openness and having the difficult conversations if you are struggling and seeing that there is help out there. It’s also about community and enjoying the day with family and friends and making new connections. I hope everyone who comes along finds new possibilities and practical ways to improve their lives and ultimately their happiness.”

Supported by Ards and North Down Borough Council, HappyFest is on Sunday, 7th July 2024, at Crawfordsburn Activity Centre. Tickets are priced at £18 for adults and £15 for children and a family ticket is £39 - available at HappyFestNI.com.

Individiual Photos: Both Ciara Daly, HappyFest Organiser

LORAA WHITE

As the founder and CEO of Music Video Marketplace, I am on a mission to revolutionize the music video industry with an AI enhanced SAAS platform that enables next generation record labels and musicians to create, market, and launch engaging music videos.

I have over 14 years of experience in the creative industries, with a focus on video production, social media marketing, and new business development.

I have been a founder my entire career, launching and growing multiple successful ventures in various domains, such as model agency management, designer clothing retail, event planning, luxury jewellery retail, and music video production. I have also taught a music video production course at Northern Regional College, sharing my knowledge and passion with the students.

I am currently pitching my new platform to investors in the U.S., leveraging my skills in business, strategy, product, project management, and AI.

An apparent realisation I have discovered within industry is that branding and personality are the key points that will carry your work to your dedicated target audience. Your most committed fans will be the ones that like seeing you in a more personal projection and therefore a visual medium is essential to creating a following. I have created this business to allow many artists to not only identify their main brands and themes but also to allow creators to show off their visual handiwork as well.

It is very important to me that all communities and cultures gain a chance to thrive and use this business , both in LGTBQ and nationalities , music and art is a form that takes no pre— requested structure or format and this business has been a shining example that great creators and artists can come from anywhere and should always be given the chance to thrive.

My team that I have created are all from the community and that is important me as I want to bring opportunity and growth to the country in as organic and positive a manner as I can. Both in the technical and creative aspects of the company it’s important to me to have a sense authenticity as that is the recurring theme that has aided me throughout my journey.

My mission is to bring long form music media content back to fruition as the short form content atmosphere we have been living in has quickly come and gone, people want a personal engaging and enticing form of content especially from their favourite artists , this is why Spotify has introduced music videos alongside their library of songs.

I have been in the industry for many years, and I’ve seen many people especially from my community pursue their passions only to have life or opportunity prevent them from reaching their big breaks, with this platform and business I have created I hope to allow both continuing artist and more unknown creators an opportunity to pick up their passions again and get the representation they deserve.

www.instagram.com/musicvideo.marketplace www.instagram.com/loraawhite

2024 is the year we made history

T Mayor Micky...

he last time I wrote for GNI Mag in 2022 I hadn’t long taken up my role as a new Belfast City Councillor, representing the Balmoral ward in South Belfast, just two short years later and we’ve made history when I was elected as the newest Lord Mayor of Belfast, marking the first time in it’s 130+ year history in which an openly-LGBTQ+ person has held the position.

I say “we’ve made history” because, while it’s me in the position, I feel like this is a win for our entire community, both the LGBTQ+ community and the wider community.

On Monday 3rd June, the night I was being installed as the new Lord Mayor more and more people kept arriving at Belfast City Hall, my friends and family, but also others from our community who wanted to come along and witness this historic event. They had to start turning people away from the public gallery because of health and safety reasons. When I put on the chain and took the chair there was this almighty cheer from right across the chamber and the public gallery, and I didn’t realise it at the time, but from outside the chamber also.

Paula Bradshaw posted on Facebook, and I think this sums it up pretty well. “I was aware of the significance of his appointment, but I had not fully appreciated just how much it meant to so many people until I heard the cheers from outside City Hall when he took the Lord Mayor’s chair.”.

LGBTQ+ people, BME people, women, political institutions weren’t built for us, they were built to represent the select few. Being a gay politician isn’t my entire identity, but others made our identity their entire politics, and that’s why it’s so important that we’re represented in institutions that we were never meant to be represented in. That doesn’t just mean politics, it means leadership roles, heads of companies, educators, solicitors, any number of professions.

Every Lord Mayor brings something different and personal to the role, when my party colleague Kate Nicholl was Lord Mayor she focused a lot on ethnic minorities and newcomer families, which is a huge priority for her and something she’s incredibly passionate about, and while there will of course be the corporate plans for Belfast City Council, including inward investment, hosting international visitors, and representing the Council on all things from launching our new sponsoring partnership for Belfast Bikes to speaking at local business conferences, I too wish to bring some of my own things to the role.

I have pretty ambitious plans for the year ahead and as the city’s first openly gay Lord Mayor, I want Belfast to be a place where everyone feels welcomed and included.

A more inclusive, diverse and kinder city makes it better for everyone. I’m looking forward to meeting with groups and organisations city-wide who are working to achieve these goals and to using my time as Lord Mayor to highlight their work and showcase all that is good within our city.

My background before politics was in the voluntary and community sector, supporting those impacted by longterm homelessness and addictions, and this is an area I’m really passionate about and want to use this role to shine a spotlight on.

Where I think I can make the biggest difference is making Belfast a more inclusive place to live, work, and spend time. I’ve made myself available to the LGBTQ+ sector, including those well established organisations such as The Rainbow Project and HEReNI, but also organisations like Sporting Pride who are doing some amazing work promoting LGBTQ+ inclusive sports, Another World Belfast, who are incredible in addressing inequalities, promoting inclusion, and creating space for those who often go ignored, I can’t do justice to just how incredible this organisation is.

As I write this, it’s my first week in office, I’ve only been elected for two days and I find myself in New York City attending the New York New Belfast conference, a conference with a focus on inward investment into our city. I’ve met with some incredible people who have been championing our city here in the US and promoting the opportunities, talent, and advantages of doing business in Belfast. One thing which has repeatedly come up is our people, and how resilient and hard working we are, it’s hard not to be extremely proud of Belfast when you’re sitting in a meeting with a tech company which was founded, and is still based, in Belfast and have expanded globally, leading change in their sector, and the average age in the room is 28.

Today has been so very surreal for me, when I found out I would be in New York City during Pride month I wanted to take advantage of the opportunity and go to visit the LGBT Centre here, who are facing a lot of the same funding struggles as our sector our in Northern Ireland.

When the announcement went out that I would

be taking up this role I had hundreds of messages of support from people I spend my life with, people who I haven’t seen since primary school, and people I’ve never even met, followed by a tsunami of online trolling and abuse, something which those of us involved in public and political life have sadly just had to expect at every turn. I was feeling really quite anxious about it all, everyone tells you not to read the comments but it’s almost impossible when your phone is blowing up with notifications and you’re aware that people are making horrible and libellous comments about you online.

It was during this tsunami of homophobic abuse when I got an email from a man named Danny Dromm. Danny is a former New York City Council Member, representing the 25th district from 2010 to 2021. Danny began his career as a public school teacher in 1984 and was key in promoting teaching acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals through the ‘Rainbow Curriculum’. Danny came out publicly in 1992, the year I was born, and went on to serve as the chairperson of the Finance Committee for New York City.

Midweek, tired and drained from a mixture of emotions the email from Danny was an invitation to a reception he had arranged for me in none other than the Stonewall Inn. I remember having a wee celebratory cry and re-reading the email over and over again. This was particularly symbolic, as it would be my first official engagement as the newly elected Lord Mayor of Belfast.

When I arrived at the Stonewall Inn I walked in to, again, another cheer, and this proved to me that it wasn’t about me, it was about the significance of what me in this office represents, change.

To arrange an event like this for someone is an incredibly kind gesture to make, but even more so when I walked into that room and seen the calibre of people who came to congratulate me, heads of organisations, the NYC Controller, Council Members, and former speakers. It was truey an incredible honour which will stay with me for the rest of my life.

As I look forward to the year ahead, I want to make sure that I do our community proud. I promise to do everything within my ability to ensure that our community is represented in decision making and not just an after thought.

Twitter/X - @micky_murray

Facebook - Cllr Micky Murray

Email - mickymurray@belfastcity.gov.uk

It’s a queer world...

Matt cullen presents intimate portraits of people in the Lgbtq+ community

By Paul Hutnick

Matt Cullen believes all queer people aspire to the same things in life: love, a roof over our heads, good health, supportive family and friends, and to live each day with a smile on our face. In his inspirational documentary series, Our Queer Life, he interviews LGBTQ+ people from every color of the rainbow ¾celebrities to street hustlers to people living in an off-grid community, and hundreds more¾ to discover how their individual journeys are shaping to build a strong and resilient LGBTQ+ community.

“My passion is spotlighting those in my community who are fighting to live their authentic truth,” Matt Cullen explains from his Los Angeles home. “I enjoy sharing stories of those who display perseverance in the face of difficult circumstances; who don’t allow setbacks to hold them back.” He is especially interested in speaking to those who, without Our Queer Life, may not have the platform to share their story with the world.

Matt’s own story began in Northern California, where he grew up in a typical 90’s nuclear family with a mother, father, and older sister. He recalls being picked on by classmates for his love of musical theatre and dance, and for being too feminine. He came out as gay during his senior year in high school in a letter to his parents. “I left it on the kitchen table for them to read when they got up in the morning,” he says. “I was so nervous, I was shaking.” After reading it, his parents appeared in his bedroom doorway and Matt vividly remembers his father telling him, “I can’t wait to meet the man you fall in love with.”

Matt is grateful to his parents for their love and acceptance, especially after meeting so many people through Our Queer Life who have not been so lucky.

People like Renee “Mousie” Russo, a transgender woman and street hustler. Mousie was one of the first to open her world up to Matt, sharing how she served seven prison terms and had lived in 17 of the 34 men’s prisons in California. Over 300,000 viewers tuned into the episode where Mousie detailed her tumultuous past to Matt and

gave him a tour of her $67/month apartment in Los Angeles. A year later, Matt revisited Mousie at her home to learn about her life as a working girl and intravenous drug user in North Hollywood. A few months later, hundreds of thousands tuned in to a third episode where Matt announced the sad news that Mousie had passed away.

“Mousie took a chance on me when I had a miniscule viewership,” Matt reflects today. “She really helped me to shape the series.”

In addition to highlighting Mousie’s incredible story, their conversation demonstrated Matt’s uncanny ability to build a circle of trust between himself and his subjects. “I love deep one-on-one conversations where true learning takes place,” Matt continues, clarifying how the intention of Our Queer Life is not on sensationalizing stories but on digging below the surface to uncover the true human story. “The series is meant to focus on LGBTQ+ people that have crossed a hurdle in their life, or are in the middle of crossing that hurdle, or still have that hurdle in front of them.”

Through his show, Matt has made it his mission to help destigmatize topics like sex work and amplify important issues such as the misrepresentation of trans men and women. He also shines the spotlight on those in the community who have lived in the shadows for too long: adult film stars, ballroom queens, gay Orthodox Jews, gay cowboys in rodeo, and even one trans person whose addiction to illegal plastic surgery has left them disabled.

Matt’s belief is that viewers who identify with the people he spotlights in Our Queer Life may get a better understanding of them and perhaps, feel a bit of empathy for their plights. “In these divided times, it is more important than ever before that the LGBTQ+ community and its allies make an effort to find common ground with one another. We’re stronger together, so let us stand united.”

New episodes of “Our Queer Life” are airing weekly on Youtube @OurQueerLife

MIGHTY HOOPLA

My First Hoopla - A gay person’s Glastonbury!

By Gary Campion

Until this year Mighty Hoopla was something I had to watch from afar on social media due to my life-changing accident, surgeries, and associated recovery time. Founded in 2016, it started at Butlins, then moved to Victoria Park, and finally to its current venue, Brockwell Park in south London in 2018.

30,000 like-minded people descend on the capital every June for two days of music, fun, and fashion in the summer sun! With freedom and expression at its heart, Mighty Hoopla has become the UK’s most fabulous extravaganza. Featuring more than 200 artists and performers across 10 stages embracing the best of pop, alternative, and queer culture, it is a party for all.

Previous years have seen a diverse mix of acts including Sugababes, Steps, Jessie Ware, Cheryl, Years & Years, Chaka Khan, TLC, and some pretty fantastic surprise appearances.

With an array of alternative club nights, cabaret collectives, and unique performances such as roaming comedy acts, vogueing troupes, orchestras, secret discos, and mass karaoke, this is the festival to expect the unexpected. Hoopla also provides a focus for emerging and established LGBTQ+ artists and performers, as well as delivering a safe and welcoming event for a diverse audience of attendees.

I flew from Belfast City Airport to Gatwick Airport to stay with my cousin, who had kindly agreed to be my +1 for the event. The plane was full of people who I can only assume were also heading to Hoopla, judging from all the short shorts on display, and the overpowering smell of Dior Sauvage that fragranced the plane for the entire journey.

Weather and outfits

Festivals are all about being prepared but also looking fabulous no matter the weather. At the time of planning my outfits, I was blissfully unaware of the

impending mud bath due to heavy rains during the week up to the big weekend. The gays were in panic, mud and mud and mud-related memes were rife over social media, as a gay with a mobility-related disability I have to admit I was a little uncertain if the mud situation was going to be kind to my joints. Thankfully Hoopla and Brockwell had it covered, bark check, walkway panels check, last-minute email info pack and social media posts on correct footwear check. Now all I had to worry about was ensuring I looked fabulous but how far is too far with a Hoopla outfit?? The answer - nothing is out of bounds, the crazier, the camper, the more colourful and imaginative the better.

other gals and gays of Hoopla upped their outfit game even more so, with more skin, more muscles and more sparkle on show like queer peacocks on heat….I loved it!

Day one I had intended to have a bespoke purple metallic hooded Cowl style top with baggy parachute pants with LED rave glasses for my first night but disaster struck not once but twice! My top wasn’t right for the cooler wet weather. My LED glasses were damaged during my flight, so I opted for my backup: a homemade tie-dyed long-sleeve top with a vest underneath (for a bit of added warmth). A pair of brown leopard visor style glasses, my planned baggy parachute pants and some stick-on pridethemed face diamonds, it worked albeit tamer than some of the phenomenal outfits I came across. A special shout-out to one of my many random Temu buys rubber trainer covers, they worked a treat, dry feet and trainers!

Day two thankfully went to plan mainly due to the drying up of the earlier mentioned mud baths and the beautiful warm sunshine that was present the whole day: A white vest with a long-sleeved cream crochet top with hand-sewn gold sequined winged shoulder patches, cream denim cargo pants and clear colour-changing light-up visor glasses, I thought I looked great and ready for the press pits and accessibility platforms. With the sun out the

Food, Cocktails, Merch and Brand Stands and More!

As with any festival, it is all about the catering, alcohol and the merch and Hoopla did not disappoint, though with it being a cashless event I was tapping my card like I had all the money in the world!

Food options ranged from cheesy chips to vegetarian and plant-based dishes, catering to all tastes. The event was cashless, so I found myself using my card frequently. I recommend budgeting around £50-£75 per day for food, as dirty chips cost roughly £12-£14 and ice-cream ranges from £4-£12 depending on the type and brand.

Various drinks, including cocktails, beers, champagne,

Photo Credit:

Mighty Hoopla - 2024 by Luke Dyson

Photo Credit: Mighty Hoopla - 2024 by Luke Dyson

Photo Credit: Mighty Hoopla - 2024 by Sarah Louise Bennett

teas, coffees, hot chocolates, and soft drinks, were readily available throughout the site. When it comes to alcoholic drinks, I suggest pre-drinking and then topping up at the vendors to save some money, as some of the alcoholic offerings can be a little pricey. Small tins of cocktails were around £10.50 each, and soft drinks averaged about £4.

I am going to sound a little like my mother here and say whatever you are drinking make sure to line your stomach and eat a little something throughout the day, can’t have you ending up in the medical tent and missing half the festival!

Brands - It was great to see so many mainstream brands supporting the festival and the community. Vodafone, Moet & Chandon, Lidl, Costa Coffee, Moth: and DHL were all there with all sorts of free and paid-for products, services and Merch.

Merch Stands: They were selling everything from hoodies, t-shirts, vintage clothing, umbrellas, and blankets. I got the last blanket on the colder first night much to the horror of a few teehee! My personal favourites were the merch stands belonging to Dragged Out London with their kitschy fans with various slogans. I went with an “Am I the Drama?” fan during the heat of the second day and the Official Mighty Hoopla stand, I had seen amazing hoodies earlier on the first half of Saturday, but by the time I got there again later that evening, they were all gone, this made me sad! I cheered myself up with 2 T-shirts on the Sunday.

The Mighty Hoopla 2024 lineup summary:

What an absolute explosion of music, energy, and fabulous performances, it was everything I expected and more! Let’s dive into the highlights of this year’s highlights:

Starting strong, Jessie Ware graced the main stage to close the festival with a headline set that established her as the ultimate ‘mother’ figure to the Hoopla crowd. Fans were on their feet grooving to hits like “Free Yourself,” “Freak Me Now,” and “Save a Kiss”, and the surprise appearance of Beth Ditto for a duet of Gossip classic “Standing in the Way of Control,” just took the energy to a whole new level.

Rita Ora proved why she’s a pop sensation with a career spanning over a decade, delivering electrifying performances of songs like “Praise You,” “I Will Never Let You Down,” and “Your Song.” Rachel Stevens of S Club 7 fame made a triumphant solo comeback, treating fans to beloved classics like “Sweet Dreams My LA Ex.”

The Hayu stage was equally lit, with Delta Goodrem headlining and leading sing-along sessions with “Born To Try,” and “Lost Without You”. Countess Luann and boyband V brought their unique vibes to the stage, creating moments to remember. Louise and Kéllé Bryan’s reunion performance was a heartwarming blast from the past for Eternal Fans. The addition of Queertopia brought a whole new dimension to the festival, with exciting LGBTQIA+ artists like Lynks, Walt Disco, and Geo Jordan showcasing their talents under the afternoon sun.

Saturday didn’t disappoint either, with UK exclusive headliner Nelly Furtado delivering a set filled with nostalgic hits like “Say It Right,” “Maneater,” and “I’m Like a bird.” Surprise guest Alesha Dixon blew the stage up with a Mis-teeq megamix and iconic performances from the R&B legends En Vogue, 80’s legends Bananarama, Eve and others kept the party vibes alive. The celebration of queer nightlife and drag performers across The Hayu Stage and Pleasure Palace added a unique flair to the festival, with Drag Race Winner Tia Kofi and the Cocoa Butter Club serving up fabulous entertainment. S

Steps vocal powerhouse Claire Richards headlined the HeyU Stage with power vocal performances of her solo and Steps hits, even bringing Sunday HeyU headliner Delta Goodrem out for their rendition of “No More Tears (Enough is Enough). Cher Lloyd embraced the now-famous “Cher Lloyd by Cher Lloyd” YouTube video as the intro to her stellar performance after a 2 year break from the industry.

Rising star Bambie Thug brought a spellbinding performance with anthems ‘Doomsday Blue’ and ‘Tsunami’, while the self-proclaimed “inventor of gaypop” Jojo Siwa captivated the crowd with her UK festival debut of ‘Karma’.

No festival would be a festival without VIP guests in attendance; guests at this year’s Hoopla included Andrew Scott, Ashley Roberts, Cara Delevinge, Jonathan Bailey, Clara Amfo, Jade Thirlwall, Nicola Coughlan, Katie Price, Jedward and more.

Photo Credit: Mighty Hoopla - 2024 by Luke Dyson

Photo Credit:

Mighty Hoopla - 2024 by Luke Dyson

Some of the top highlights for me personally were:

• The House Gospel Choir brought not only the sunshine but so much fun, joy and soul to the HayU Stage on the Sunday.

• Getting to finally see Louise perform live, she brought it and more, the teenage boy with her posters over his walls may just have wee’d a little in excitement lol!

• The Legends, the icons En Vogue - timeless! They looked and sounded fantastic and really held their own against their younger fellow headliners.

• Rita Ora’s performance - before Hoopla I liked some of her songs but didn’t really think much of her past that, this woman put on not just a show but full live vocals while being fully in time with her dance troop and looking shit hot…. Rita, you have earned a fully-fledged fan!

• Cher Lloyd - she proved that she has more than the X-Factor and had the crowd eating every minute of her performance up, I wish the UK would give her more recognition.

• Six the Musical - bringing the West End stage to the HeyU stage!

• Tia Kofi - “Outside in” and those dancers! That is all!

• Last but not least a special mention has to go to Barrioke featuring Barry from Eastender in the Pleasure Palace. This brought so much joy

and fun to not just my cousin and I but the packed-out tent and beyond!

Overall, this year’s lineup was a whirlwind of music, fun, and inclusivity that showcased a stellar lineup of talented artists and brought people together to celebrate the magic of music and performance. From electrifying headliners to soul-stirring reunions and emerging LGBTQIA+ talent, the festival was a true feast for the senses and a reminder of the power of music to unite us all.

Would I go again? Who am I trying to kid, I’ve my tickets and accommodation booked for next year! You can get further information on how to get 2025 tickets and more at www. mightyhoopla.com

We spoke to some of the performers, here are some Pride messages

JoJo Siwa - “Love is awesome, you can be in love with whoever you want to be in love with and it should be celebrated. If you want to fall in love with a girl, if you want to fall in love with a boy, if you want to fall with somebody who is a they\them or who is non-binary that is incredible! Happy Pride GNI!”

Louise - “I am always so happy to be such a supporter of Pride, love, kindness and respect. Happy Pride Everyone!”

Cher Lloyd - “Do what makes you happy, be with who makes you smile, laugh as much as you breathe, and love as long as you live, love you!”

Bambi Thug - “Pride is important to me, we should have pride for more than just one month, we should have pride all the time. It allows us a space to not give a shit because we are safe, and it gives us the opportunity to all come together as a community and learn from each other, there is still a lot of work that we need to do within our community and pride gives us the platform to do that. I love feeling free and watching us all come together being unashamedly ourselves. My pride message to the GNI Readers is oooh you sexy mutha fuckers, you’re queer, you’re Irish, you are already winning! I know it is difficult in Ireland because there are people still stuck in old patterns of thought and aren’t always so accepting, but don’t forget your voice matters, you are absolutely loved and I love you endlessly…..love you, love you love you never stop being you, all go goth right now come on!”

Countess Luann - “Happy pride to all my LGBTQ fans, I will be celebrating with you, remember Love Is Love!”

Beth McCarthy - “If you wave a pride flag at me on tour you best believe I’ll do a weird, awkward dance with it! Double points for anyone with a Bi flag! Have the best pride ever!”

Walt Disco - “Pride is important to us particularly this month with an election coming up as there is a huge rhetoric against trans people in the headlines trying to score points, trans and queer people just need reminding that there isn’t as much hate as the press make out there to be. Events like Hoopla and Pride where everyone loves you and respects you are really important to our community. We can’t wait to see you all again in Ireland, we always feel so akin with you all as fellow Celts Happy Pride!”

Photo Credit:

Mighty Hoopla - 2024 by Sarah Louise Bennet

AHOY

Maritime Belfast Trust launches Go the EXTRA Mile, a public celebration of the Maritime Mile

Delivered by Maritime Belfast Trust, the charity responsible for preserving and promoting Belfast’s maritime heritage, Go the EXTRA Mile is an invitation to local people and visitors to discover more of the city’s historic waterfront and enjoy an extra mile welcome from local attractions, venues, restaurants and cafes along the way.

With over 30 events over the next 10 months, Go the EXTRA Mile is an invitation to immerse yourself in history (stand in the bottom of the Thompson Dry Dock), get active

(try some Irish dancing on the Titanic Slipways), be more sustainable (ditch the car and hire a Belfast Bike), meet new people (become a volunteer) or try something new (after hours at a museum).

People going the extra mile will also be able to take part in seasonal spectacles with events planned throughout the year. Go the Extra Mile and get your dancing shoes on and take part in the Titanic Ceili on the historic slipways (Sunday 21st July). Or why not experience this summer’s Sailortown Festival running from the 26th to 28th July.

Go the EXTRA Mile will include the return of the hugely successful

Sundays on the Mile. Taking place on the last Sunday of the month between 12pm and 5pm, from May through to September, Sundays on the Mile will offer free musical performances across a mix of genres. Complementing their historic locations, artists will range from professional musicians to buskers, jazz musicians to string quartets, opera to traditional music. Stops include Hamilton Dock next to SS Nomadic, Sailortown, AC Hotel on City Quays and RiverBox at the Titanic Slipways.

For full details and to download your very

own copy of the Go the Extra Mile guide visit maritime-mile.com. Make sure to tell us how you are going the Extra Mile and join the conversation on Maritime Mile Facebook and Instagram using #MaritimeMile.

XAND

SEX AND THE CITY

Please note, this column is the opinion of the columinst and not that of GNI or Romeo & Julian Publiccations Ltd.

Moving slowly through the hot, wet, dark, steam-filled passageways, like a big cat stalking its prey, I surveyed my options for the night. I’d trained myself to feel no emotion. He wouldn’t tell me his name, I would not share mine. Both here for sex, we would enjoy our pleasure, shower, and leave to return to the world above the sauna. The real world. Does this sound familiar to you? Well, it should. Most gay men have had this experience. But what is it about gay saunas that brings out the hunter in us? As I sit here remembering those hot, wet, sweaty, steamy, spunky nights in London, I can’t help smiling when I think about the other side of my character who daydreams about romance and love. It’s like I’m two people in one body! I am both the hunter and the prey!

You see, despite the fact that in the past I have been a complete and total man whore and have always been able to have sex, Samantha Jones style, without emotion, focusing only on pleasure taken with mouth, arse, and schlong dong, with absolutely zero interest in the person with whom I am fucking, the truth is that underneath the Grindr profile and the expressionless face that says “I will fuck you in half you little bitch”, I am a hopeless romantic. In fact I’m more of a Charlotte, or even a Carrie in that I am a total cuddle monster. If I fall in love with you, I’ll cook you dinner, light candles, play romantic music, hell I’ve even written poetry for the men I fall in love with! Look, here’s a poem I wrote for my future husband just the other day ~

Oh, Bradley Cooper, You are super, duper, I wish I could ride you, But you are not here, Oh, Bradley Bradley,

This poem’s hard to write, Because I can’t think of anything, To rhyme with your last name. Fuck!

I shall be publishing my debut anthology of poems next year. The collection will be called “Don’t Tell Dad! ~ Poetry To Make My Homophobic Irish Catholic Father Cry”. And although I haven’t quite decided on which should be the first, I believe “Ode To My Willy” would make a good opener ~ and it goes something like this ~ Oh Penis, Dear Penis, You give me such joy, You make me so glad, That I was born a boy! Vagina’s are awesome, You’ve known quite a few, But usually bumholes, Are where I put you.

10% of sales will go to the charity “Prostate Matters”, and I’ll be telling people about the wonderful work of F.I.N.G.E.R. or the Finnish Institute of Next Generation Exploration of the

Rectum, who will be this year probing deeply into prostate care for bottoms aged 18-25. In fact, they’ve asked me to be their Chairman and I’ll do my best to be a proud and upstanding member.

But why are we so carnivorous as gay men? Why is there such a fear of commitment on the one hand and a deep pining for romance on the other? Sometimes, I feel like a gay Jekyll and Hyde. During the day I’m like Sandra fuckin’ Bullock in Practical Magic dreamin’ of a love that even time will lie down and be still for and at night, I’m at my masturbation station, fleshlight in hand, poppers at the ready, scrolling through hardcore German bareback orgies. Funny old world, innit?

Maybe it’s time I just accept the fact that I’m a slut and I love big dinkles and the sort of sleazy fisting porn you wouldn’t want your boss to find on your laptop. I mean, there’s a big difference between ‘water sports’, and the way I do it. Maybe I need the kind of relationship where he wears a collar and I wear the boots. Maybe if I get married again in the future he should have the words “Love”, “Honour”, and “Obey” tattooed on his lower back. I mean, I’m not saying guys always have to be 100% submissive all the time.. but it helps. It also helps if they wear a puppy mask and a tail.

I’ve always thought of myself as more of a cat person but something about the idea of a guy wearing a collar and barking is enough to quicken the beating of my heart. Woof! But anyway, you’re probably wondering what the point of this article is, and believe me so am I as I sit here stroking my pussy and wondering which Bradley Cooper film I shall watch this afternoon. Maybe ‘Limitless’ or that one where he’s a sexy shit-faced chef as I can relate to that one. The shit-faced bit anyway. I am quite a good cook but no one’s calling Gordon fuckin’ Ramsay anytime soon pet!

I suppose the point of this article is to make you laugh, to make you smile, to make you think deeply about love and romance, to allow you to express yourself in whatever way you like, and encourage you to embrace your inner cum-hungry man whore and realise we don’t have to be this or that, saint or sinner, flawless or fuck monster, vanilla or bareback. We should just allow ourselves and each other to love and fuck in whatever way pleases us. The most important thing is that we treat one another with respect and look after one another. Peace out bitches!

Xand - xandwest2022@gmail.com

BIG DAY >>>

So tell us how you met, were you single for a long time before you started dating?

Leanne & I met in eBay. Leanne M was working in eBay for 6 months before I started.

When I came on board, Leanne was my “mentor”. So, anytime a new hire aka myself, had a question. We would raise our hand and Leanne M or another mentor would come over to help. Leanne M caught my eye instantly. I was absolutely mad about her from the beginning. I used to make up questions just so she would come over to help me. Neither of us were single for very long before we met. We were both only out of relationships for maybe 2 months.

How long after you started dating did it take to pop the question, was it an immediate yes, and who asked who?

We got engaged in July 2019 in Glasgow. Leanne M

asked Leanne K and of course it was an immediate yes. I actually had a feeling Leanne M was going to pop the question. She kept at me for weeks saying “I have a HUGE surprise for you”, “when we get there, you need to leave the room for a few minutes so I can set up your surprise”. I had an idea but wasn’t 100% sure so definitely didn’t want to big it up too much in my head in case I was totally wrong, but turns out, I was right. We were on cloud 9 for weeks!!

Tell us about your big day, location, amount of guests etc.

We had our big day on 3rd of August 2023 and it couldn’t have gone any better. So far, definitely, the best day of our lives. We got married in the Pillo hotel in Ashbourne and had around 160 guests. The whole day from start to finish was amazing. From our bridal parties, to the guests, to the hotel, the food, suppliers, vendors, the weather, the atmosphere. Everything! It was just perfect!! We had

a spiritual ceremony that took place in the Pillo also. Francesca and her team in the Pillo couldn’t have done any more. They even had a few surprises for us on the day. They surprised us with a bagpipe player and also some funky entertainment when serving our meal.

What about the food and drink?

The food and drink at the Pillo was *chefs kiss*. We honestly couldn’t fault it. We had Vol Au Vents for starters, vegetable soup, either salmon or chicken options for mains and a medley of desserts. When we had our menu tasting, they even allowed us to tweak the menu slightly to include a chocolate brownie in the dessert medley. Leanne M was adamant that she wanted wings at her wedding and although it wasn’t possible to offer this to all of our guests, Leanne’s wish was granted and she was served wings as her starter on the big day. She enjoyed said wings that much, the sauce ended up on my dress, on the

Y o u r W e d d i n g Y o u r W a y

Multi award winning venue. Embrace yourself in the stunning heritage village of Leighlinbridge, a hidden gem in the South East.

best man’s shirt and alllllll over Leanne’s happy face. hahaha It’s a moment I’ll never forget.

Were there any hiccups or did all go to plan?

The weather forecast wasn’t looking great on the lead up so we said to ourselves, if that’s the worst thing that happens, then we can deal with that. Fortunately, some family members and friends had a child of Prague statue that they put out for us the day before and the weather turned out to be glorious!! :) We did have a few guests not turn up after RSVPing yes, but I suppose that happens at all weddings. Other than that, the day went according to plan perfectly. Actually, I tell a lie. Leanne M had a disaster with her suit. When Leanne M & her groomsmen went for their final fittings, everything was wrong. Too long, too short, wrong suits for some, different waistcoats, taken in too much, not taken in enough. It was disastrous and only 11 days to the wedding. They promised everything would be fixed but unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. Most of the suit trousers were too tight and Leanne M’s trousers were actually split right the way up the crotch area. The only funny thing about this was.. She didn’t notice until mid-ceremony and sat on the chair trying to look at the stitching while AnnMarie was essentially marrying us. My aunty actually had to stitch them up for her straight after the ceremony.

Have you been on or are you going on honeymoon?

We have been on our honeymoon. We went to the USA in December 2023. We had a BALL!! We started off in San Francisco, then moved onto LA, Vegas was next and then we finished off in New York. We came home broke and exhausted but so happy. It was honestly a trip of a lifetime and to get to experience it with each other, was the cherry on top.

In your day to day lives what do you do for work, and what interests do you share and have that are different?

I work as an administrator for an IT Infrastructure company and Leanne M is a barber. Together, we love going on coastal and scenic walks, especially with the doggo. We love going for sunrise and sunset walks (I know, so romantic ;)), we love date nights, whether that be some bowling, cinema, food and drinks, we love booking hotel stays with nice spas, and in general, just being in each other’s company at home. Separately then, Leanne M loves to unwind on her PS5, building legos or watching the football . I enjoy catching up on some TV shows or

socialising, travel?

Do you do everything together in terms of

For the most part, we do everything together but we do enjoy our own space and social events too. Leanne M might go to the pub with a friend to watch

reading while marinating in skincare. lol I also enjoy watching rugby.

the football. I have absolutely no interest in football so I couldn’t think of anything worse to be honest. lol We’ve never really been on a holiday without each other. We do like to travel and it’s something we’re both keen on keeping up with. We’ve been to the canaries a few times, some trips around Ireland, Glasgow, Rome, Paris, USA. There are so many more places on our bucket list. We want to go to Poland, Iceland, back to America, Egypt and a safari is 100% on the cards. We nearly booked a safari for our honeymoon actually.

Have you a family, is this something on the plan for you?

It’s just us and Kobi (the doggo) for now but hoping to add a new edition very very soon. It’s something we’re working towards and fingers crossed, if all goes well, our family will have expanded next year. We have started our IVF journey with a clinic in Dublin. We’re almost there, so hoping for good news over the next few weeks. We’re both so excited.

Tell us who made your day possible in terms of rings, flowers, photographer, cars etc I know we’re biased but we had the most amazing vendors and suppliers. We really were so lucky. Our rings were purchased from H. Samuel. The lady in the shop was so nice and helpful. She even gave us a small discount which was much appreciated. Planning a wedding is so costly that every little helps! My bridal bouquet was a gift from my parents so I couldn’t even tell you where they were from but they were stunning. The bridesmaids bouquets we made ourselves. We purchased artificial flowers from the range and made them up. They weren’t anything to write home about but they were nice and simple and did the job. As I said, weddings are so expensive that we cut costs where we could. Our amazing photographer was PS Photography. Paul was the absolute business!! So friendly, funny, down to earth and incredibly skilled. He made us all feel so at ease on the day and our photos turned out stunning. We also had a videographer, Ger Boland. He, too, was fantastic. I cried watching our wedding video back. There wasn’t one detail he missed. It was so personal and perfectly captured our big day. Big shout out to our band the Beatty Brothers. Wayne and Barry are incredible artists. There’s nothing they can’t sing. Andrea Bocelli, Mary J. Blige, The Temptations, Mark McCabe Maniac , they are so versatile and had everyone up on the dancefloor all night long. I can’t forget our celebrant AnnMarie Colton from Spiritual Ceremonies. Ann made our ceremony so personal. She met with us a few times on the lead

up to the big day to get to know Leanne M and I. She put in some funny one liners to keep our guests intrigued, talked about how we met and really sold our story as a couple. It was like she knew us for years. I’ve never seen another celebrant go above and beyond to make a ceremony truly personal. Pat Tierney from BMW 7 Series Executive Cars was who I hired my wedding car from. Leanne M stayed in the Pillo the night before our wedding so didn’t require a car. Pat was a gentleman. He was the only honest person I spoke to who didn’t try and overcharge me. He actually informed me that I needed to book a wedding transfer and should be quoted no more than €x. I felt he was so honest and welcoming that I decided not to call around for more quotes and booked Pat on our initial phone call. The car was spotlessly clean, air conditioned to keep the temperature down with nerves lol. He thought of everything. My dad and Pat actually had some lovely chats on the drive to the Pillo. It was really nice and I found him very calming. Our cake was made by Creative Cakes which was delicious!! The Pillo was decorated by Julia from Love At First Sight. We also had a selfie mirror booked with Carloyn Sweets. We booked our post box and tayto packs with them also. There is nothing like a crisp sandwich at the end of the night. I don’t even think half of them made it to the end of the night. They were swiped!! My dress was from La Bella Sposa in Swords, Dublin. I think I’ve covered everyone.

Has anything changed since you said “I Do”? We’re having a baby!! Well, we’re not pregnant yet but we’re working on it. Keeping all fingers and toes crossed.

Anything else we may have missed that you may want to add/ mention???

I don’t think there’s anything else other than a HUGEEEE thank you to everyone involved that made our big day so special. xx

W Love in every season...

ith luxurious amenities, stunning surroundings, and personalised service, the Four Seasons Hotel & Leisure Club in Monaghan is the perfect choice for your dream wedding day!

Located in the charming town of Monaghan, the Four Seasons Hotel & Leisure Club has been

celebrating love and marriage since 1970. This prestigious four-star establishment is renowned for its exceptional service and luxurious amenities, making it the perfect venue for your dream wedding celebration. As a family-run hotel, they are dedicated to providing you and your guests with an unforgetable experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourselves in the charm of Monaghan and Ireland’s Ancient East.

The hotel allows the option to move in the night before your wedding with your wedding party. This grants you to start your celebrations as soon as possible and create a sense of anticipation and excitement.

The elegant Sakura Suite serves as the ideal backdrop for your ceremony, with its romantic pastel tones and opulent wall panelling. This versatile space allows you to infuse your own personal touches, making your special day truly unique and memorable.

To ensure a warm Irish welcome for your guests, they will be greeted in the private pre-reception Limewood Suite with refreshing drinks and delectable snacks. They can then relax on our plush crushed velvet sofas, creating a cosy and inviting

atmosphere. When it’s time for your wedding feast, the talented chefs will prepare a mouthwatering meal using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This will be accompanied by fine wine and served in the beautifully refurbished Seasons Suite, which can accommodate parties of all sizes, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations of up to 350 guests.

The hotel also boasts stunning grounds with mature and intimate gardens, providing picturesque locations for capturing your precious wedding moments. These gardens also offer the perfect opportunity to bask in the sun’s rays, should the weather be on your side!

To help prolong the celebrations, wedding couples will receive a discounted rate for a selection of comfortable guest rooms. As an added bonus, the wedding couple will also have complimentary access to the Superior Suite and two additional guest rooms. All accommodation includes full access to our award-winning Leisure Club and a wholesome full Irish breakfast.

Beyond the stunning aesthetics, the team takes care of the finer details, from exquisite menus created by top chefs to impeccable service from dedicated staff.

Every aspect of the wedding is carefully coordinated and executed, leaving the couple and their loved ones to simply relax and enjoy the momentous occasion.

The team’s dedication and attention to detail have earned them a reputation as one of the leading wedding venues in the industry, with countless happy couples and their guests raving about their experience. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for creating unforgetable memories, the team continues to exceed expectations and set the standard for lavish weddings. Whether it’s a classic and elegant affair or a modern and chic celebration, the team at this venue will go above and beyond to make every couple’s dream wedding a reality. So, if you’re looking for a truly exceptional wedding experience, look no further than this iconic venue and its dedicated team of professionals.

They will not only meet but exceed your expectations, making your special day a truly unforgetable one.

Contact a member of the wedding team today on weddings@4seasonshotel.ie or +353 (0)47 81 888 to arrange your private or virtual viewing.

Visit the website today www.4seasonshotel.ie

Photo credit: Thomas Whyte Media

forever

What matters most?!

I’m Elaine, mummy to Conor,12 & Méabh,5.

From a young age I always wanted to work with children so it’s no surprise that’s the path I went down and I am now the manager in the setting I’ve worked in for almost 16 years.

In 2015 I was offered an opportunity to increase my income.

Depite having an extremely supportive family, I was riddled with ‘single parent’ shame. I wanted more for Conor, more for myself and I was told that this opportunity would give me that.

I listened to people who had been in the business 10+ years and how their lives had changed. I was in awe!! But a little voice at the back of my head kept shouting ‘it’s okay for them’ , ‘that’s not for people like you’ and I gave up!

Fast forward 8 years….. The shame had lessened, probably due to life events & understanding ‘self worth’ (that’s a story for another day).

In 2023, I connected with a community of solo parents, but what I didn’t know was how my life would change ‘FOREVER’

I met a lady who I recognised from 2015, she has created an amazing business through this company in the last 8 years. She has travelled for FREE , to destinations she never thought possible as a solo parent.

Over the next few weeks I couldn’t stop thinking about how she (like me) was just an ordinary person with an ordinary life trying to provide the best future for her children

and so I went along to an event & listened to 6 ladies who had all been in there when I first joined in 2015. All from different backgrounds, all with different reasons, which proves this opportunity has something for EVERYONE!

What interested me the most was how they had all built their businesses in and around family life and now this is their full time income. I thought ‘maybe I could make this work for my family’ and so we began our FOREVER journey once again!!

Fast forward to today, I still work in Childcare however, thanks to the success I have had in just 8 months I have been able to reduce my full time hours so I can spend more time at home being mum!!

I want a better future for my children, a better future for me!

Being a SOLO parent, I need to be secure in the fact that my children will ALWAYS be more than okay.

So when I am asked ‘What matters most’ ?

The answer is simple… My little team!!

My question to you is….

What matters most to you?

Connect with me - I’d love to hear your answers.

The FOREVER opportunity is available to everyone looking to earn an extra income. Whether it’s for discount on personal use, an extra few hundred per month or an extra few thousand…YOU CHOOSE YOUR JOURNEY!

Special offer , 20% off across the entire range for all readers until 31st August. (Excluding the starter boxes)

Jetaway Jayne...

Planning your next trip, look no further

Ihave always loved to travel and explore new places. Since I was a little girl and holidays meant a caravan on the north coast there was still always something special about going on a trip. All the preparations, getting some new clothes, and not sleeping much the night before in excited anticipation. Fast forward all these years, too many to say, and the destinations have gotten a little bit further afield, but that excitement is still there. I’m a big kid at heart (which is probably why Disney in Orlando is one of my favourite holidays to plan!)

When I was 18, I got involved with youth exchange programmes in Germany, adding to my travelling experience in a different way. I have been back to Berlin at least ten times now, and have amazing friends there. I class it as a home from home, my second city if you like. The first time I took my wife Laura and daughter Abbie there it was so special. City breaks are definitely a great way to get away and try new places, without the commitment of a two-week holiday. I really love planning them, looking for ways to do things in a cost-effective way but also to try and get the most authentic experience. Laura often says if there is a way to cram everything a city has to offer in a three-day trip, I will find it!

Laura already loved her holidays when she met me, but she mainly stuck to relaxing and partying in beach type trips. I think I have rubbed off on her a bit as she loves to join in planning something new nowadays, well, if you count telling me where she wants to try next and leaving me to plan it as joining in.

I have definitely given the travel bug to Abbie as well, she’s obsessed with where we might go next, and knows she’s a super lucky girl to have been to some of the places we have been, not least to New York City for her sweet sixteen. Seeing Manhattan from the sky in a helicopter was an experience we all won’t forget in a hurry. We know we are very privileged to have travelled as much as we have, and as a family we have enjoyed America a number of times, cruising around the Greek Islands, Italy, a train ride across Austria (Salzburg was a firm favourite for

Sound of Music fan Laura), Berlin and Munich and Portugal. Laura and I also had an absolutely epic adventure across Thailand for our honeymoon, something we plan to repeat when we are ten years married in the not too distant future.

On top of all this, my friends call me the queen of organised fun, as I love to plan group trips for us all, whether it’s a staycation for the weekend or a group trip for a special birthday or celebration such as Laura’s 40th in Sitges. In fact, we are all heading to Gran Can later this year. Although you know what they say, what happens in Maspalomas stays in Maspalomas!

After years of amateur travel planning, I finally decided to take the plunge and give it a proper go. I am now an Independent Travel AdvisorJetAwayJayne at your service!

I am absolutely loving it already. I’ve been able to combine my passion for travel, obsession with finding unique deals, and my interest in design and marketing to a side hustle that brings me such joy. I haven’t settled on a specialism and I don’t think I want to. What I do know, is that I am as passionate about your trip as you are. I want you to have the best possible time, so I will make sure to listen to what you need and present you with options to choose from to suit your budget and taste.

How can I help you with your travel?

• Hotel only

• Package and all-inclusive holidays

• City breaks

• Hen / Stag / everything in between

• Destination weddings

• Honeymoon and Babymoon

• Group trips

• Solo adventures

• Spa weekends

• Corporate Travel

• Cruises

• Giant adventure holidays

• Staycations

• Skiing

• Excursions / attractions whilst you are there

• Bespoke itinerary planning

If you are looking to embark on your next adventure, look no further than JetAwayJayne! As an Independent Travel Advisor with a passion for exploring the world, I would be thrilled to help you plan your next getaway.

With over 50 suppliers at my disposal, I can craft a personalised itinerary that suits your every need. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I understand the importance of feeling safe and accepted while traveling, and I will go above and beyond to ensure that your experience is inclusive, enjoyable and safe.

You are in safe hands, no matter who you love or how you identify with JetAwayJayne. What are you waiting for? Let’s get you on that plane!

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#JetAwayJayne #TravelwithPride #AdventureAwaits

Hello! My name is Anthony Cooley. I am level 3 certified personal trainer of a number of years and a newly qualified level 3 Sports Massage Therapist here in the lovely city of Belfast. Being from a personal trainer background I know all too well how easy it is to suddenly develop aches and pains over time and even worse an injury. These things aren’t necessarily down to what we are doing in the gym, but we can obtain one simply by how we go about our daily lives. I think most of us over time will have some sort of ongoing tension in our bodies, and this is usually down to our daily routines. A prime example of one of the more common ones I see is tension in the upper back/neck region, this is due to how many of us now lead sedentary lifestyles working from home, especially since the pandemic. If you think about how many of us now use technology every day, be it a smartphone, a computer or tablet, we are a generation that is constantly looking down all the time. This creates postural changes that over time can effect those muscles that we normally use to support our heads in the neck, shoulder and upper back region and in the end this creates tightness and tension. Throw a gym session in the mix on top of that and you have a recipe for disaster. Already weakened muscles + strength training = increased tension and possibility of injury. Thats where I come in!

Being an advocate of the gym for most of my adult life, I’ve been in that position many times over. From my own experience, a trip to a massage therapist has always been the thing that helped speed up recovery time so I could get back to my normal routine with a lot less pain down the line.

Now, treatment of already existing injuries is just one of the things I would do as a masseur but there are many benefits to having a deep tissue massage treatment every once in a while. I’d like to take the opportunity today to discuss some of the other reasons why having one every once in a while can help you gain a better sense of wellbeing with these busy/hectic lives we lead nowadays.

So what are the main benefits of having a Sports massage treatment?

Sports massage has been proven to help release and reduce tension in the muscles as discussed already, it can help improve blood circulation and encourage the removal of waste products such as lactic acid during high intensity activity and help relax the body. It will also aid in flushing harmful toxins from the body with an increase in lymphatic circulation for overall improved immunity. An increase in muscle elasticity is a welcome benefit of frequent treatment with the benefit of improved muscle flexibility. All of this helps promote recovery and reduces the chance of muscular injury, as well as an improved sense of wellbeing. Sports massage can also be an effective tool in preparing the body for sporting activities so athletes and anyone from a sporting background can really benefit as it gets the body ready and fired up. This can be done in the days leading up to a sporting event or just minutes before as a way of firing up those muscles for greater performance and to further reduce the chance of injury during this time. And of course afterwards as a form of cooling down the muscles so the chance of getting an injury is lessened during this time reducing the time taken for those muscles to recover before the next event.

Another amazing benefit of Sports massage therapy is thats it’s well known as an effective treatment in managing various debilitating disorders and diseases. Many of us will struggle with our mental health at some point with all the stressors going on in our daily lives. Studies show that just one treatment can release lots of those feel good hormones and endorphins with the benefit of improved mood and overall sense of wellbeing. It can relieve anxiety, depression, headaches and insomnia to name a few. It can also help with degenerative conditions such as arthritis by reducing the amount of inflammation that is present in joints by working on the muscles around them. With better support in those joints, overall tension is released for pain relief. The same applies to degenerative back pain which can be a problem as we age. These are just some of the main benefits for considering a treatment like Sports massage.

A common question that I get asked is if sports massage will be painful?

The answer is, not necessarily. You should not want be jumping off the table during a treatment. Any good massage therapist worth their salt will have ongoing communication throughout the treatment with the client, and should be asking how certain pressures feel for the duration of it. To get the best benefit from a massage, the deeper the pressure the more tension release you will have, but obviously this all depends on what you can withstand. You shouldn’t be walking away battered and bruised but with a feeling of less tightness in the muscles worked with them being freed up somewhat and an overall improved sense of wellbeing. Also whilst on the subject, here are a few tips around how to prepare for a deep tissue massage. Make sure you are well rested beforehand, well hydrated, and have a warm shower to help relax the muscles before those muscles get worked. The same applies to afterwards, their will be some discomfort in the muscles worked but nothing too intense, just a bit of soreness is expected. Again plenty of rest, hydration and good nutrition is the way to go for a speedy recovery. And don’t forget to book in for the next treatment to keep things progressing in the right direction!

Lastly I will finish by talking about the new business I have setup in order to provide Sports massage therapy treatments. It’s called, “ReSurge Massage Therapy.” The idea behind the name is all about giving individuals the chance for a bit of resurgence in their lives be it because of an injury that has occurred or due to an ongoing issue that I can help with. I want to give people the chance to get their lives back on track without being in pain or discomfort to the best of my abilities. I am currently operating out of a massage room I have setup at home with the hopes of expanding into a more permanent residence down the line as the business develops. Watch this space!

For more info on pricing and availability you can reach me on Facebook or Insta under the name,

“ resurge_massagetherapy.”

I very much look forward to meeting each and every one of you and getting you back on your road to recovery with a bolt of resurgence! Anthony.

Coc oil

ulster pride back in 2019 i wanted to help people and end suffering within the rural areas for my community LGBTQIA I’ve lost many friends to suicide and i was honestly fed up with putting my friends and family into the ground so i decided it was time to help and all of a sudden coc my initials was born.

I created 5 different scents Pomegranate, Orange, Lemongrass, Natural ease and Coconut, i loved the entire process and journey, it honestly saved my life. Researching and developing everything from aromatherapy, mixing up different scents to see what works, what i like, my clients like and dislike etc. It’s honestly been the most fun I’ve had in years, I love being creative, doing up the artwork and images really gives me something to get up in the mornings for.

This has been a passion project that’s now finally coming to fruition. I work alongside a few celebrities who have been a great help. I like to call them my business Angels, they help guide me in the right direction and I am truly humbled and grateful for this. I never take my life for granted, I am very blessed and very lucky. My blood, sweat and tears have gone into this project, overworking a lot, but I wouldn’t change it for the world or have it any other way.

Hi my name is Cathal Ocianian I am the Founder of COC-OFFICIAL.CO.UK, i have been a Holistic therapist since 2009 specialising in Swedish Massage and adding to my therapies ever since i offer a wide range of services from hot stone therapy to sports Massage and even thai to turkish i incorporate a lot of different techniques and draw inspiration from all over the world touch is extremely important within all our lives in helping us feel relaxed and rejuvenated.

I first started this journey years ago as my mother suffered from arthritis so I took it upon myself to get proactive and do something in order to help her. unfortunately mum took her own life on may 3rd 2011 and my whole world changed i put my life on hold and was honestly lost i had been going through my own struggles with a diagnosis that i couldn’t wrap my head around at the time and on top of that i was grieving my mother and to be honest still am. I got inspired again when i helped Co find the charity mid

I’m currently working on my own special formulation which is CBD infused oil with Myrrh, Clove (bud and Leaf) and Peppermint. This is specially formulated to my Postcode Only which means Nobody can replicate my formula north or south of Ireland, England Scotland or Wales, i am extremely proud of this achievement, It has taken me quite a few years to get it right,

We all know the health benefits CBD has to offer, I have a friend with stage 4 cancer at the moment and the new gold edition will be called 12 gods. She has inspired this new range. I just want to help her in her very short life and make things better even if it is for just 1 hour of deep tissue or light effleurage.

I am also currently working on a new charity which will be named after my mother, it will be called Veronicas Haven i want people to feel they have a safe space to go to and be themselves free from judgment, i plan to have health pods, jacuzzi facilities, shower rooms, healing circles and more add ons in the coming months.

My instagram business page which is simply @ cathalocianian has a payment link on it if you wish to purchase the oils and help support a small business a % of the money will go to charity which is Veronicas Haven, Mid Ulster Pride and also Suicide Prevention @pipsni i look forward to meeting you all and hope you can follow me on this journey.

Cathal Ocianian

Review/ Testimonial

Cathal dropped off a sample of the Pomegranate Massage Oil, I have been training in the gym and my legs have been so sore, I used the oil with my massage gun. It is so lovely , smells amazing and feels great on the skin. It definitely relieved the tension in my muscles and made my skin smooth and hydrated. Also another big pro for me is discovering there are only 3 ingredients. Will definitely continue using it and highly recommend it. Best of luck in the new venture - Daniel May, GNI Director

Available on Insta - cathalocianian

Tel - 0742548077

Key points:

PrEP is highly effective.

There are different ways to take PrEP - taking a pill every day is an option but there are other ways too.

Remember to have a sexual health screen every 3 months

Please call or text us if you have any problems

Please visit these website for more information on PrEP: www.iwantprepnow.com or www.prepster.info

NHSCT HIV prevention

NHSCT HIV prevention

Available at your Sexual Health Clinics in:

BALLYMENA

Causeway Hospital

Available at your Sexual Health Clinics in: BALLYMENA

Braid Valley Site

4 Newbridge Road

Causeway Hospital

BT52 1HS

4 Newbridge Road

BT52 1HS

Braid Valley Site

Cushendall Road

Mid Ulster Hospital 59 Hospital Road

BT43 6HL

Cushendall Road

Ballymena

BT43 6HL

BT45 5EX Magherafelt

Tel: 07384 820 826 • E-mail: sexualhealth@northerntrust.hscni.net

Tel: 07384 820 826 • E-mail: sexualhealth@northerntrust.hscni.net

NASTY PIG

New Campaign Celebrates the Revolutionary Brand’s 30-Year Anniversary

For thirty years, Nasty Pig has been fusing high fashion and streetwear with the collars, harnesses and accoutrements that typify the fetish lifestyle. The menswear line was among the first to pull inspiration from the art of Tom of Finland and classic gay adult magazines, as well as the coded signals and counterculture silhouettes associated with the queer community.

For Nasty Pig’s summer XXX campaign, celebrating the house’s thirty-year anniversary, fashion photographer Sam Waxman set out to create visuals that paid homage to NYC’s queer culture from the 90’s to the present. Shot at Sidecar Studio in Long Island City, the black and white Avedonmeets-Mapplethorpe-inspired images rely heavily on movement and attitude and feature pieces that represent Nasty Pig’s impactful history and connection with the kink and fetish communities.

“This shoot is inspired by the need to stay loud and bold in our queerness,” Waxman asserts. “Every model in the campaign is fun, sexy, a little weird, and fiercely individualistic, which embodies so much of the ethos of Nasty Pig from 1994 to present.”

Models include Emolsa Haasacha, Eugenio Fernandez, and Tony Voong, along with professional dancers Diego Mugler and Jeffrey Koch and martial arts practitioner David Alcocer. “The models understood the assignment so clearly,” Waxman continues. “There is beautiful attitude and movement in every corner of these frames.”

Getting the perfect shots was a collaborative effort, he acknowledges. Airik Prince styled the shoot. Production/lighting support is by Austin Ruffer, and movement direction is by Maxwell Haines. Also on hand at the shoot was Nasty Pig CEO David Lauterstein whose lightning bolt of energy made him an excellent hype-man on set. We spoke with Mr. Lauterstein to discuss Nasty Pig’s summer XXX campaign and its first three decades.

Congratulations on thirty years of Nasty Pig. Can you take us back to NYC in the nineties?

When we founded the brand in 1994, NYC was

wonderfully sketchy, energetically creative, and incredibly inspiring. You didn’t need tons of money to live here so it allowed for a thriving arts and underground club scene. Sound Factory, the afterhours club on West 27th Street, was the center of the world where ballroom girls, designers, hookers, and celebrities danced together from 4am to 2pm the next day. Things were harder to find because we didn’t have the internet. But once you found them, they were accessible to everyone because the scene was so much smaller and welcoming.

New York City is still popping. If you truly understand this place, you know she is constantly eating herself alive and regurgitating herself in new ways in new neighborhoods. I absolutely love New York.

What comes to mind when you reflect on the three decades that have passed?

It’s been the ride of a lifetime! I started this business with my first boyfriend who took my virginity. We were still in the throes of the AIDS epidemic in 1994. Frederick and I felt there was a need for a queer brand that spoke to our community in a visual and cultural style that made queer people feel more than understood: empowered. We wanted to reclaim our sexuality and our identity from the stigmas that were unfairly placed upon us.

Frederick Kearney is an incredible designer and constructionist, the purest of artists. He is the Creative Director of our company and now my husband. So, when I reflect on the past thirty years of Nasty Pig, I see it as a love story: my love for Frederick, our shared love of fashion, and the love we have for our community.

With Frederick as the creative, were you more the business side of the company?

I graduated college with a degree in poetry so I had no idea what building a brand meant! The only thing I fully understood was that making a product wasn’t enough; I had to build a world. When we opened the doors of our 68-square-foot store on West 22nd Street, I used every interaction I had with customers to make them feel something. I told stories. I

entertained them. But most of all, when they left our store with something new from our brand, I wanted to make sure they felt transformed.

Did the NYC fashion industry open its arms to Nasty Pig?

We were blessed to count Manfred Thierry Mugler as one of our earliest customers. I cannot begin to describe how it felt to have our idol walk into our store to shop our racks. He took us under his wing and downloaded so much wisdom to our young ears, including his feeling that the fashion “industry” was an obstacle to true happiness and real success. He instructed me to retain the connection I had with my customers at all costs. I didn’t understand his advice at the time but that didn’t stop me from unquestioningly heeding it. When Mr. Mugler spoke, you just bowed down and listened. Of course, he was right. The connection between our brand and our customer base is at the heart of our success. It remains incredibly strong, and we never stop pouring our hearts into what we do.

How has the fashion industry changed in this time and what impact has the change had on Nasty Pig?

The biggest change the industry has gone through is the full-throated adoption of the internet and social media as the primary means of communication of your brand and your product to the world. We were very early adopters of both, launching our first ecommerce site in 2006, our Facebook page in 2007 and our first influencer program, called the Nasty Pig House of Representatives, in 2010. The fact that we were ahead of the times meant we were well positioned once these ideas became standard practice. We didn’t need to manufacture our personality for the world to consume digitally. We’ve been authentic since day one.

Authenticity is so important, especially today when designers and retailers are mining the sex dungeon as a source of inspiration. Is their interest in kink and fetish appreciation or appropriation?

It depends on the house. Those who do fetishwear meticulously with respect to functionality and craftsmanship honor the culture. If you’re going to make a harness, it should take you from the runway to the playroom. Those who churn out low-quality imitations just to jump on what they perceive as a trend are appropriating.

What impact has the hyper-visibility of BDSM in fashion had on today’s kink scene and the real people for whom collars, harnesses and kinkwear are expressions of identity and community rather than aesthetic choice?

In my experience, kinky people are the most downto-earth, chill humans in the world. We have broken through societal stigma and shame for the joy of exploring our sexuality, and we’re pretty happy about it. So while I’m sure kinky people may have opinions about this, I doubt it has made anyone bitter! We are too busy enjoying our time on this earth to care about whether or not some actor who wore a harness to the Oscars is really getting tied up at the Vanity Fair after party.

Diversity and inclusion are key words in fashion today. How has Nasty Pig incorporated the initiatives into its brand?

Kevin Aviance, a bald genderfluid man of color, modeled for us in our very first photoshoot back in 1995 wearing a hot pink dress my husband made for him by hand. We are featuring him again as part of our campaign for our SS24 collection, “XXX”. It’s always been important to us to choose models and influencers who represent the diversity of our community and reflect back the diversity of our customer base. Inclusion has never been an initiative of ours. It’s just who we are.

Who is your target audience today?

Our target audience is anyone who is embracing their queerness and sexuality. We make menswear, so our audience skews towards a customer base that wears those silhouettes, but anyone who wants to sport a look from Nasty Pig and feels hot doing so - bring them on!

Visit NastyPig.com. Follow @nastypig

Text by James Booth

Photos by Samuel Waxman

Hot Hits & Celeb Bits

Gary Campion

Pride is finally here! I have been so busy living my best life with gigs from Girls Aloud, attending my 1st Mighty Hoopla and stadium gigs from P!nk and Swifty that I nearly forgot about Pride month. Let’s get stuck in:

LGBTQIA+ Artists on the Rise My Favourite Tracks

Beth McCarthy is a Singer-songwriter from York who is best known as a TikTok star, where she posts original and song covers. Her account has gained over 840,000 followers and more than 18 million likes. Her music tells the stories of a twenty-something trying to understand love, friendship, and the feelings that come with figuring out who you are. Beth’s ability to tell a story through her songs, combined with her cheeky on-stage presence engages her audience on a more personal level making her performances feel more like an experience than a show, something I experienced first-hand at Mighty Hoopla. Favourite Track: IDK How to Talk to Girls

Tim Chadwick, a Dublin-based singer-songwriter, he was signed to Sony Music Ireland but has since become an independent artist in the last two years. Tim has supported artists such as Rufus Wainwright and Mabel. His music has been streamed over 10 million times across streaming platforms and has amassed a 100k monthly listenership. He independently released his second EP “Timothy” which received rave reviews across the UK, Ireland and North America. Over the last year, he has completed his self-funded debut album which is set to be released this year.. Favourite Track: 1 + Only

Chayla Hope is bringing the next wave of pop, a lover of driving beats and synth as a soundtrack for lyrical theatre. She is an esteemed member of the LGTBQA+ community, and former drag queen/king, Chayla brings a sense of unrivalled empowerment like nothing is going to stop her in her tracks. Her latest single ‘All Over Now’ is a triumphant funk electro-pop anthem that you could easily hear amongst the best of the current modern-day pop stars. Her song “Love In Lo-fi” which I featured in my 2nd ever Hot Hits and Celeb Bits Column last year was used in the Love Island Games. Favourite Track: Love in Lo-Fi

JXCKY a queer, dark/alt-pop Chinese-Cambodian JXCKY generates anti-pop chaos with an unapologetic explosion of attitude and hyperbole. Once going by the name Jacky X, an unfortunate confrontation with another artist of the same name forced them to rebrand, but they took it as an opportunity to switch up their sound. Their blending together of notorious moments with a rock and trap flare, unfiltered lyricism, bulletproof hooks and falsetto voice brings relatable dark/alt-pop tracks that are unapologetic, relatable and brutally honest. Favourite Track: LFG!

Top 5 Pride Tracks:

BILLIE EILISH

BIRDS OF A FEATHER

Up until now I was always a little unsure what all the fuss with Billie was but this track has won me over and has me digging into her back catalogue. #latetotheparty #sorryBillie

CALUM SCOTT ROOTS

Proving over and over again that he is more than just a ballad boy, this is going to join his list of bangers such as Where are you now, Whistle and Lighthouse.

BETH MCCARTHY GOOD BI

After seeing her perform this live at Mighty Hoopla this year it has landed hard and fast to my “on repeat” playlist!

WILL YOUNG MIDNIGHT

A massive welcome back to the nicest Gay in music, I’ve missed you! I remember being at his table for a charity dinner in London years ago and hanging on his every word, he’s the only guy my friend Kerry-Ann and I would fight over. #loveyaKA

SIGALA FT ADAM LAMBERT YOU MAKE ME FEEL (MIGHTY REAL) what do you get when you mix a legendary disco track, a house DJ and a Gay vocal powerhouse a damm good pride hit that’s what!

Vinyls of the Moment

The only way great music should be played!

Walt Disco - The Warping Back with a bang with their highly anticipated 2nd album which is an eclectic mix of tracks, including the latest single “Come Undone”, the deeply poignant “Jocelyn,” the nostalgic comeback single “Pearl” and my personal favourite the cynical disco banger “You Make Me Feel So Dumb.” This album is a vibrant masterpiece that hits all the right notes, elevating their signature cinematic glam. The lyrical depth of the album dives into personal struggles and emotions, reflecting on themes of envy, fear, joy, and hope with unapologetic honesty. Walt Disco fearlessly explores issues of gender dysphoria and envy, weaving them into a tapestry of raw emotions and self-discovery.

The band enlisted classically trained orchestral musicians to add a symphonic touch to their sound, the result? Horns, woodwind, and swelling string sections elevate the Walt Disco experience to a whole new level of organic brilliance, boasting analogue-heavy instrumentation that gives the album a warm, retro vibe. The entire album is lyrically artistic and vocally theatrical, reminiscent of musical storytelling greats such as Bowie, Kate Bush and Bjork who take you on a musical journey of their telling. They absolutely rocked the Queertopia stage at Mighty Hoopla and I predict they will rock at least one Glasto stage at some point in their bright-looking career.

KAWALA - Better with You

This debut album is a colorful tapestry of indie-pop and folk that resonates with themes of love, heartbreak and euphoria with the enchanting vocals of Jim Higson and Daniel McCarthy, whose voices weave a spellbinding narrative throughout the album.

Having had the privilege of both interviewing and watching KAWALA perform live, (and even snagging a signed vinyl copy), I can attest to the electrifying energy these lads bring to the stage. “Better With You” invites listeners on a journey through the ups and downs of love, from heartbreak to euphoria, all set to a backdrop of catchy melodies and infectious beats. The album’s 10 tracks, including standout tunes like “Jesse C’mon” and “Ticket To Ride,” showcase the band’s knack for crafting indie-pop gems that are impossible to resist.

Songs like “Searching” and “Good Like This” highlight KAWALA’s unique sound, where emotional depth meets lively instrumentation to create a truly engaging listening experience. Instead of following a predictable pop formula, the band infuses each track with their blend of indie, pop, and folk elements with a distinct energy, keeping the mood alive and spirited from start to finish. The album is a testament to KAWALA’s talent for crafting acoustic gold, with a mix of catchy beats, heartfelt storytelling, and genuine emotion.

TOP five LATEST RELEASES ON REPEAT

What I have been listening to on repeat for our entire week of summer:

PERRIE TEARS

The 2nd single from Perrie has a different sound to her debut

“Forget About Us,” but a total summer evening on the Decking, solar lights glowing, cocktail in hand kinda vibe!

ABSNTMIND NO STRINGS

The debut single from the newest boyband on the circuit, which includes local lad Conor Marcus, a catchy debut that I dare you not to sing along to “no strings, no strings, no strings!”

SOPHIE LENNON SECRET HIDEAWAY

She is back with her 2nd independent release, this selfpenned summer tune which was Qradios one to watch and my ears 100% agree!

KAWALA TIME SLIPPING AWAY

Fun lyrics, tight harmonies, guitars and catchy beats this track has everything I have come to love off the KAWALA boys! (See Vinyl album review)

ROMY

ALWAYS FOREVER

Brit Awards 2024 British Dance Act Nominee features that massive Donna Lewis hit “I Love You Always Forever,” I can see and hear this blasting from this year’s Belfast Pride floats. #Icalledit

Pillo Hotel... A hotel review with a difference (a

three year old campaign)

Hotel reviews are a common fixture within our try section, there is one small difference this time around as this was a family trip with my 3 year old foster son who we can refer to as S.

Since S came into my care in February I haven’t personally done a hotel review and we haven’t been on any overnight trips, so my mission was to tick off both boxes. After researching online and speaking to family I soon came to realise that in N.I/Ireland is so limited with the amount of hotels that can truly say they cater for families, yes all welcome children but do they have facilities in

place that they will enjoy?

I found the Pillo Hotel & Leisure Club in Ashbourne, County Meath, and from the outset it seemed ideal on so many levels. I was compelled to reach out and express my interest in staying and was delighted that with the help of Francesca their events Manager we were able to arrange our first family trip away. Let me tell you all about it.

From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warmth and professionalism. The check-in process was smooth, and the staff were incredibly accommodating, making us feel welcome and ensuring we had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. Francesa had arranged tickets for us to spend the day in Emerald Park. We picked these up and headed off.

After our fun filled day we returned to the hotel around 5pm. I was completely blown away by the room, a Junior Suite was provided, it was spacious and modern, with a super king-size bed that could easily fit a family. The room was equipped with all the necessary amenities, including complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, which was a great plus for both of us. I could catch up on work on my laptop while the wee man indulged in some Paw Patrol on the tablet.

We chilled for a bit then headed to the Pool, it was definitely one of the standout features. The Clannlife Leisure Centre includes a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, and Jacuzzi, providing guests with ample opportunities to relax and unwind. We spent some quality time in the swimming pool, S loved it, he is such a waterbaby. It was clean, well-maintained, and family-friendly, which made our stay even more enjoyable

We dined at the hotel’s restaurant, which offered a diverse menu catering to both adults and children. The staff were attentive and ensured we had a pleasant dining experience. I had a lovely Chicken Caesar salad, large Vino, S had Sausage’s, Potatoes & Gravy and we split a dessert - The

fresh cream Profiteroles with milk chocolate - so moorish

Apart from the Pool the highlight of our stay for S was the sensory room. After dinner we had the opportunity to use it from 7pm. It was filled with various sensory equipment, including bubble tubes and interactive panels, creating a soothing atmosphere that helped him relax before getting ready for bed.

My foster son has sensory processing needs, so this was perfect - he kept referring to it as ‘his room’ even in the days after we left, asking if we could go back. It provided a calming and engaging environment, oh and access was private offering safe space for some needed one on one time with your child/children.

I also learned that they have a two-bedroom suite, catering to families with children who have sensory needs

As a single gay man, I was pleased to find that the Pillo Hotel was welcoming and inclusive. The staff were friendly and professional, and we felt comfortable throughout our stay. The hotel’s atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, catering to a diverse range of guests, including families, business travelers, and couples.

Our stay was a memorable and positive experience, the amenities and location made it an ideal choice for us. I cannot wait to return in the future and experience more of what this wonderful hotel has to offer.

For more information or to book your stay, you can visit the www.pillohotelashbourne.com

Thank you kindly for your hospitality Daniel May

SOME HELPFUL INFO:

Accommodation: The Pillo Hotel boasts 148 contemporary rooms designed for maximum comfort. Guests can choose from deluxe double rooms, family rooms, and junior suites, each equipped with modern amenities such as highdefinition flat-screen TVs, complimentary highspeed Wi-Fi, tea and coffee making facilities, and spacious, well-lit working areas. The rooms feature luxurious king-size beds with crisp linen sheets, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. The hotel also offers accessible rooms for guests with disabilities Meetings and Events - For business travelers, the Pillo Hotel offers extensive meeting and event facilities. With seven meeting rooms and over 9000 square feet of exhibition space, the hotel is wellequipped to host conferences, corporate events, and private functions. The hotel’s convenient location near the N2 and the M50 motorway enhances its appeal as a corporate venue

Additional Amenities - Guests at the Pillo Hotel can enjoy numerous additional amenities, including complimentary on-site parking, an electric vehicle charging station, and free cancellation up to 48 hours prior to arrival. The hotel is non-smoking and provides 24-hour reception and room service, ensuring guests’ needs are met around the clock Nearby Attractions: Besides being close to Emerald Park, the hotel is ideally located for exploring other attractions in the area, such as Dublin Zoo and the historic sites of the Boyne Valley, including Newgrange. The proximity to Dublin City Centre also allows guests to easily explore the city’s cultural landmarks, shopping districts, and nightlife

GALGORM

Galgorm invests £3 million to add new Forest Dens to luxury accommodation collection

Northern Ireland’s premiere luxury hotel, Galgorm has added a stunning new range of accommodation to its collection, with a £3 million investment.

Having already invested £60 million since 2010, Galgorm secured its position among the world’s premier tourism destinations in 2021 when it announced a further £30 million investment to expand and enhance its resort and spa facilities by 2027.

The new Forest Dens represent £3 million of that investment phase and are the first element of the ‘Forest Garden’ at Galgorm. The expansion to the Thermal Spa Village is due to follow in summer 2025,

complete with forest walks, wood-fired sauna, hot tubs and a rope bridge connecting the Thermal Spa Village on both sides of the river.

Colin Johnston, Managing Director at Galgorm, said: Colin Johnston, Managing Director at Galgorm, stated: “Our commitment to maintaining Galgorm’s standing as a world-class, award-winning tourism destination has driven us to invest and innovate continually over the last number of years. This latest £3 million investment is a testament to our dedication to offering premium and authentic experiences to our guests.

“The introduction of the Forest Dens marks a unique addition to our accommodation portfolio, providing guests with an exceptional opportunity to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the luxury and

tranquillity that Galgorm is renowned for.

“With further substantial investments on the horizon, guests can look forward to even more exciting developments, including the expansion of our Thermal Spa Village next summer.”

The fabulous new ‘Forest Dens’ are tucked away beyond the river Maine in the peaceful heart of Galgorm Wood, each one complete with a beautifully bohemian backyard for the chance to get back to nature and soak up some serious tranquility.

Guests will be invited to relax in their own private sauna, unwind with a wood-fired bath and freshen up in the outdoor shower for a truly rejuvenating break from the bustle.

Other features include a stylish indoor kitchenette, outdoor seating with heating, BBQ facilities and a fire pit.

Where earthy nature meets that famous Galgorm luxury, the new Forest Dens, set within 40-acres of private forest, are the latest addition to the resort’s exquisite accommodation offering which includes 125 luxurious guestrooms, 41 cottage suites, 16 Shepherd’s Huts, six log cabins and four exclusive residences.

Suitable for two guests, with one double bed, ensuite with shower and Galgorm Cora amenities, a Forest

Den stay includes access to the spectacular Thermal Spa Village from check-in to check-out, helping to bring guests’ sense of Zen to the next level as they embrace true comfort and explore the great outdoors in the Galgorm changing robes and sliders.

All of Galgorm’s lodging accommodation is dog friendly, so guests are also invited to bring their pooches along for a visit.

Just 30 minutes from Belfast, and two and a half hours from Dublin, Galgorm is set within 450 acres of parkland next to the river Maine in the heart of Co Antrim.

The resort was named Best Destination Spa 2024 in the prestigious Conde Nast Johansens Awards, and won six awards at the 2023 World Luxury Awards, including Global Award Winner for Best Luxury Spa Resort.

Forest Dens are now available to book with an overnight stay with Bed & Breakfast available for £270 To find out more, visit https://www. galgorm.com/forest-dens.html.

Pride Break...

Is Barcelona on your list? Why I think it should be...

Pride Events and Festivals are held all across the world as a sign of the struggles the community has faced, as a sign of remembrance and a celebration of those brave men and ladies who died during the communities darkest of times. Even in 2024 the fight for freedom in many countries and cities around the world for the rights of LGBTQ+ communities continues. Stronger than ever.

If you’re lucky enough to attend any Pride event you will know how colourful and inclusive it is and what a spectacle of sights and sounds these events really have become over the years.

Barcelona is one of my favourite cities to visit and it annually hosts one of the best Pride events on the global Pride Calendar. Barcelona Pride in 2024 is June 28- July 21. Annually Barcelona Pride brings thousands of LGBTQ supporters from all across the world to enjoy the stunning cities Sun, Beaches and events. Pride Barcelona is a full host of events from live music concerts, Dance, Sport, Exhibitions, and Beach Circuit Party events to name but a few.

Barcelona, even when Pride is not on, is a very popular city break for our community because of the nature of the cities people and vast array of Gay Bars, Clubs, Saunas, Hotels and events. For me this city has it all with an amazing mix of culture , entertainment and for a city break it’s on the coast so you can also have beach days and because it’s Spain you will almost always be guaranteed to be bathed in the hot Spanish sun. Barcelona will always hold a special place in my heart also as this is the spot where I got engaged a good few years in a hotel down one of the cities many alleys.

Spain as a country hosts some of the best annual Pride celebrations on the planet from Gran Canaria’s Maspalomas Pride Summer & Winter Prides , Benidorm Pride, Ibiza Pride, and even Madrid Pride to name but a few. So as you can see if you like a bit of Spain and Rainbow in your

life then Spain will keep tugging at your heart and purse strings but in my opinion if you then why the hell not go and enjoy them all.

Historically Spain decriminalised homosexuality back in 1979 with its LGBTQ+ community still being committed to its roots which include continuing to fight for freedom, dignity, respect and acceptance of the communities rights.

Generally as Prides are a huge event they will always upload a calendar of events for the festival and Barcelona Pride is no different. I think these guides are fantastic as it’s always a good idea to plan ahead because some of the key main events can be heavily attended. It’s also handy for packing if you plan to attend some of the more fetish events or White parties etc.

It’s not all parades and carnival though Prides can really take it out of you and lucky for you that Barcelona has to be one of the Best cities in the world to relax and rejuvenate your body and mind. So if you need some time out from Pride life then add in a chill day or visit some for the cities international visitor attractions or like me head to the beach and relax in the sun and soak up the male not so clothed men and have a cool cocktail or too.

Getting to Barcelona from the UK & Ireland can be pretty cheap due to the numerous flight options on low cost airlines and scheduled flight services. I have used Aer Lingus and Ryanair on services from Belfast or Dublin numerous times without any issues. El Prat Barcelona is pretty easy to get in an around and pre bookable airport transfers are very easy to find and reasonable. You may already be on holiday on the Costa or even on a package holiday and I am delighted to advise that Spain’s train and bus connections to the city are very frequent and affordable. So if you had not thought about attending Barcelona Pride as you didn’t think your resort was close to the action then please think again. I promise you attending will be one of the key highlights of your package holiday.

As always hotel accommodation is abundant but I always aim to stay in either Gay owned/managed properties and in Barcelona always enjoy the Axel Hotel One and Two. Both properties are very different with one being more traditional and gothic on the outside but fully bright and modern inside whereas Axel Two is a much more modern building offering a sophisticated upmarket feel. Both of these hotels often have party events of their own including small pool parties. Don’t worry if you don’t have the budget for this chain though as the city has ultra budget accommodation options as well as hostels too or you can always try a Gay share with some of the City Ambassadors who often host on gay Apps like Grinder or Scruff.

You will find the local community really does come together during Pride month and will host one off city historical tours including live talks by some of its most important key figures from the community. Spanish brands really do embrace Pride and you will notice many businesses supporting Pride from offering donations from purchasing certain products or services from them or by them highlighting they are Key sponsors of Barcelona Pride. I feel Barcelona really does shine brightly during its annual Pride events and brings to life one of Europe’s best loved Gay friendly cities showcasing its people during the parades and parties.

You will of course find many things put on specifically just for pride such as transfers to events, Boat Trips, Night Tours, Discounts for Gay Venues, bars, Clubs, restaurants , saunas and even cafes. I know many people don’t really pay attention to these but don’t overlook these because you can save a lot on both transport, ticket prices and also meals or drinks. Pride Barcelona does this to help you have a safer overall more enjoyable time.

As always LGBTQ nightlife offers you many things from intimate small bars to large nightclubs for you to dance your little shorts or less on. I have enjoyed times in Boys Bar BCN which has an international feel, good drinks price and

promotions as well as a dark room for those who like to engage in such things. Bacon Bear Bar has to be one of my all time favourites during stays in Barcelona mainly down to the staff and the good old fashioned Bear camp-ness that can walk in the door. I even have a BBB black T Shirt from my most recent visit. Lastly I am not a huge nightclub fan but you have numerous Gay only or Gay friendly options but my all time favourite is Bananas Party because the mix of Drag dance and brilliant staff always makes your night that little bit better not to mention the atmosphere. Of course during Pride season everything gets busy so be prepared to move around or spend more time in one venue than you usually would.

I must finally give a special mention to Trash which was a late Barcelona discovery for me but one which is indeed the cities largest FETISH Club. This place has it all from Cabins, Showers, Fetish rooms and well its dress to impress but Birthday suit is best if you get me

Well however or whenever you travel to Barcelona I know from the minute you land it will have been a fabulous choice of break and you will have memories of a lifetime to cherish or like me relive as much as you can when you can.

Happy travels everyone and Happy Pride 2024 wherever you might be this year.

By Gavyn Andrews

Gourmet

THREE FARTHER-FLUNG FOODIE FINDS.

FIRSTLY, APOLOGIES IF OUR FOODIE RECOMMENDATIONS ARE OFTEN RATHER “CITYCENTRIC”, BUT YOU CAN TAKE THE GOURMET BOYS OUT OF BELFAST, BUT…… YOU KNOW THE REST! SO, TO HELP REDRESS THE BALANCE, HERE ARE SOME OF THE VERY BEST OUTOF-TOWN VENUES AND RESTAURANTS WHICH WE’VE HAD THE PLEASURE OF ENJOYING OVER THE PAST FEW MONTHS.

LIR, COLERAINE

We were always huge fans of Rebekah and Stevie McCarry’s fabulous Native Seafood and Scran at “The Pool” in Portstewart , offering an ever changing menu of sustainably sourced, wild Irish seafood, and winning multiple awards and accolades.

This legacy continues at the incredible ‘Lir’ at Coleraine Marina, featuring a state of the art kitchen, stunning restaurant, al fresco bar, fish mongers and deli.

We called in for a celebratory lunch, and we absolutely loved the whole experience; from the beautiful views over the river, to the wonderful menu, attentive service, and sophisticated surroundings, it really was very special indeed.

Starting with a couple of excellent aperitifs, a Native Sour with Outwalker Whiskey, and a Tomato & Sweet Basil non alcoholic cocktail, we then enjoyed a couple of wonderful Small Plates to start the meal; a Smoked Mackerel Pate with gherkin ketchup, pickled shallots and croutes, and a Haddock Fishcake on a warm tartar sauce.

Our main courses were also delightful; a towering bowlful of Cider Moules swimming in a broth packed with barley, leeks and fennel, accompanied by some delicious sourdough; and a Crab Linguine with hints of chilli, fennel, courgette, dill and a seashorefresh flavour.

There is also a selection of great organic and natural wines to choose from to complement the superb food.

Lir offers an alternative seafood experience like no other, where fresh, local, quality produce is consistently at the forefront .

HOLYWOOD WINE BAR, HOLYWOOD

A fabulous new addition to Holywood’s High Street, Holywood Wine Bar has a cool, vibe and a menu to match, with a modern wine list, creative cocktails, and delicious plates to enjoy with the drinks.

We had a fantastic seat overlooking the street, and in the summer the doors are flung open giving the venue an air of continental café-style sophistication.

We began with a couple of cocktails, one of the best Old Fashioneds we’d tasted in quite a while, and a theatrical Bellini, in all its dramatic, bubble-domed glory.

Nibbles are a must with cocktails, and the Scorched Padron Peppers with Parmesan Aioli, and Beetroot Hummus with Roasted Root Vegetable Crisps were the perfect accompaniment.

by a Caprese Salad as good as any on the Italian Riviera, and a bottle of crisp and fruity Trementi Viognier.

We finished our meal with a Five Spiced Panna Cotta with hints of Morello Cherry, and a wonderful Cheese Plate with a lovely selection of European cheeses.

This new Wine Bar is sure to be a top foodie destination in Holywood.

THE CUAN, STRANGFORD

What a gorgeous evening of delicious food and drink we had at The Cuan in the heart of Strangford village. The glimmer of sunshine and hint of heat heralded not only the first proper spring day of 2024, but also the launch of The Cuan’s fantastic new menu.

The Cuan’s casual yet sophisticated restaurant interior, with a beautiful open fireplace, and French café-art style prints on the walls, suggests a chic dining experience, and with a wonderful menu specialising in Northern Irish seafood dishes, we knew we were in for a treat.

To begin, in keeping with the stylish ambiance, we had a French Martini while we made our food choices.

The Sharing Seafood Platter was simply irresistible, and this fabulous starter board included Hot & Cold Smoked Salmon, Ardglass Pickled Herring, Prawns, Smoked Mackerel Pate, & Salmon Pate with Homemade Guinness Wheaten Bread and Crackers.

We then continued the seafood theme with a subtly spiced Asian Blackened Salmon with Greens, Lime, and a Soy & Honey Dressing, and Pan-Fried Seabass-beautifully filleted and cooked, served on Caponata.

The side dishes of Tempura Broccoli with BBQ Korean Sauce, and golden Triple Cooked Chips were perfect accompaniments.

To finish, the honey-scented Panna Cotta with a Chocolate Cookie, and the Irish Cheese Board, of Ballylisk Brie, Cashel Blue, & Irish Vintage Cheddar with Sourdough Crackers and a Homemade Plum Marmalade were the perfect finale to a wonderful meal.

With excellent service, and delicious, freshly prepared and locally sourced food, our meal at The Cuan was a delight from start to finish.

Follow @thegourmetboys on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok & LinkedIn Email – hello@thegourmetboys.com

Please note, this column is the opinion of the columinst and not that of GNI or Romeo & Julian Publiccations Ltd.

To follow, we had an incredible Fish Board, absolutely ideal on a warm spring evening to create a sense of the seashore, with an abundance of local seafood; meaty crab claws in confit garlic butter, trout caviar with horseradish creme & blinis, smoked mackerel pâté, Atlantic prawns, lemon arancini, crostini and burnt lemon aioli. Sensational simplicity, especially accompanied

If you have any requests for restaurant recommendations send us a message and we’ll get right back to you.

LIR

LIR

HOLYWOOD WINE BAR

HOLYWOOD WINE BAR

HOLYWOOD WINE BAR

THE CUAN

THE CUAN

LIR

THE CUAN

THE CUAN

CleanCo

had far more time in the day to achieve my goals. It didn’t take long to realise that drinking alcohol wasn’t necessary to have fun either — I’ve never looked back, I haven’t needed to.

Developing CleanCo was not to preach about alcohol consumption, but to give you a choice when mixing a drink, without compromising on taste or social experience. You should be able to enjoy the delicious, refreshing cocktails you know and love without the repercussions.”

Spencer Matthews

Review

As a recently new parent, my lifestyle has undergone a dramatic shift. Late-night outings and social drinks have given way to sleepless nights. However, my love for a good drink hasn’t diminished, which is why I decided to give Clean Co’s non-alcoholic spirits a try.

qualities. The tonic complemented the citrus notes perfectly, creating a refreshing drink that I could enjoy without the worry of alcohol affecting my ability to care for my baby. It’s an excellent choice for making mocktails, allowing me to enjoy a grown-up drink while still being alert and responsible

In conclusion, Clean Co’s non-alcoholic spirits will become a staple in my home. It offers a delightful alternative for new parents like myself who still want to enjoy the experience of a good drink without the alcohol. Whether it’s the citrus-forward Clean G or the mild and grassy Clean T, these drinks provide the perfect balance of flavor and responsibility. Cheers to enjoying the little moments, one alcohol-free sip at a time!

CleanCo is available at all leading supermarkets and online via www.clean.co

SMELLS LIKE SUMMER

MOLTON BROWN SUNLIT

CLEMENTINE & VETIVER

Seasons change and so should fragrances with them.

When you think of Spring or Summer you think of light, fresh, citrus, and sweet giving you that feeling of renewed energy, the warm sun and the summer breeze. Autumn or Winter is all about the warmth and spices that give you that warm cashmere, fireside feeling.

Keep in mind that the fragrance notes you smell will change as you wear the perfume. Your initial impression when you spray the scent will be different from what you smell 10 minutes later or in the hours to come.

We contacted 6 perfume houses, including both well-known and lesser-known boutique perfumeries: Molton Brown, Commodity, Shay & Blue, Atelier Materi, Tulpa Club, and Thursday Perfumes. These brands sent us a selection of their summer fragrances for us to test on your behalf. We’ve identified our favourite scents that we believe you should consider trying and rated them out of 5 based on their fragrance combination, bottle design, and their lasting scent and projection. Make sure to keep an eye out on our socials for some fragrance-related competitions.

MOLTON BROWN SUNLIT CLEMENTINE & VETIVER

100ml Eau De Parfum rrp £120

Also available in 100ml Eau De Toilette rrp £85 and a 7.5ml travel size rrp £16.

www.moltonbrown.co.uk

Top notes: Mandarin Orange, Clementine, Lime. Mid notes: Iris Absolute, Hazelnut, Fig.

Base notes: Suede, Moss, Bourbon Vetiver.

What Molton Brown says:

Rolling hills of ripe citrus trees bathed in golden sun. The hazy morning air, brightly vibrating with the freshfaced vigour of sparkling clementine, juicy mandarin and lime. Warm, creamy fig leaves and roasted hazelnut smoothly branch into nature’s earthy notes of moss and the richest vetiver; a lingering trail of easy refinement. Spend every day in endless summer; live the good life.

Daniel’s thoughts:

This fragrance is like capturing the essence of summer in a bottle. It has the delightful scent of an Italian orangery, with a mix of green, earthy moss and roasted hazelnut. Throughout the day, I noticed the different notes evolving, each taking its turn to shine. I could still smell it on my clothes the next day, which to me, is proof of its purity and longevity. Molton Brown bottles are known for their attractive shelf appeal, and this scent is no different, with its thick, smoky glass and a lid that resembles orange marble. It looks perfect on the bathroom shelf.”

Fragrance combination: 5/5

Bottle aesthetics: 5/5

Scent longevity & Projection: 5/5

OVERALL SCORE: 15

MOLTON BROWN COASTAL CYPRESS & SEA FENNEL

100ml Eau De Parfum rrp £120

Also available in 100ml Eau De Toilette rrp £85 & 7.5ml travel size rrp £16.

www.moltonbrown.co.uk

Top notes: Cardamom, Bergamot, Fig Leaves, Ginger. Mid notes: Cypress, Sea Notes, Jasmine. Base notes: Leather, Cedarwood, Vetiver, Musk.

What Molton Brown says:

A salt-sprayed collision of the ocean swell against rugged outcrops. The shore air fresh with crisp fig leaves mingled with unexpected, punchy cardamom, joyful bergamot and marine notes. Bracing cypress, cedarwood and musks brings a natural, earthy appeal. Explore on the edge; awash your senses with a sea-soaked quest. Coastal. Bracing. Intrepid.

Gary’s Thoughts:

Bottle aesthetics: 5/5

Scent longevity & Projection: 5/5

OVERALL SCORE: 14

COMMODITY MILK+

100ml Eau De Parfum rrp £130

Also available in 30ml x2 rrp £105 & 10ml travel size rrp £24

www.commodityfragrances.co.uk

Top notes: Marshmallow, Milk. Mid notes: White Cedar, Musk. Base notes: Wood notes, Amber.

What Commodity Says:

I really loved the green and leafy scent of this fragrance. It reminded me of my grandfather’s herb garden in the summer. At first, the combination of notes was quite strong, almost overpowering. However, as the scent settled, I found myself enjoying it throughout the day. The fragrance lasted nearly the whole day, and I even received compliments from friends and colleagues asking me what I was wearing. The bottle looks similar to the sunlit fragrance, with the only difference being the colour of the ball lid, which has a dark turquoise marble effect.

Fragrance combination: 4/5

We started with Milk Expressive: a warm woody, marshmallow fragrance cooled by fresh milk. We then made this creamy composition lustrous with Skin Musk and White Cedar. For the richer Bold rendition, we infused notes of smoky firewood and sweet amber.

A smoky, sweet, and inviting scent to be worn with confidence.

Garys Thoughts:

Upon the first spray, the scent is a very sweet marshmallow vanilla. However, as time passed, I noticed the smoky amber notes becoming more prominent, with the sweetness blending into the background, reminiscent of the scent when melting marshmallows around a campfire. The fragrance lasted quite well, although I found myself needing to reapply it in the afternoon and again later in the evening. The black bottle with gold lettering exudes a touch of masculine elegance.

Fragrance Combination: 4/5

Bottle Aesthetics: 4/5

Scent Longevity & Projection: 3/5 OVERALL SCORE: 11

THURSDAY FRAGRANCE ABOUT THYME

100ml Eau De Parfum rrp £130

Also available in 50ml Eau De Parfum rrp £80 www.thursdayfragrance.co.uk

Top notes: Thyme, Bergamot. Mid notes: Vetiver Sandalwood. Base notes: Tonka.

What Thursday Fragrances Says: Herby, sparkling and fresh, drying down to something smooth and elegant. The smell of heat and sunshine.

Gary’s Thoughts:

This fragrance is exactly the type of scent I love to wear in the spring and summer. It is leafy, green, and wild-herby. It reminds me of my many visits to the Greek Islands, where this smell is abundant in the warmth of the sun, with the various plants and herbs they grow both in their gardens and in the wild, and use in their cooking and honey-making. The scent itself lasted most of my working day and only needed reapplication when I was going out for dinner later that evening. The bottle is very minimalist, with a linen-type paper label and the fragrance’s branding of green.

sunshine, and the combination of the notes is absolutely perfect. The bottle is perfect to slip into even the smallest of handbags and seems to last forever in terms of the amount inside due to its projection when I have sprayed it on my various pulse points.

Fragrance Combination: 5/5

Bottle Aesthetics: 4/5

Scent Longevity & Projection: 4/5

OVERALL SCORE: 13

TULPA CLUB FIRST DATE

50ml Eau De Parfum rrp £51

Also available in 15ml Eau De Parfum rrp £19 www.tulpclub.com

Top notes: Lightly-Spiced Berries, Dried Citrus.

Mid notes: Powdery Musk, Fresh Rose Petals.

Base notes: Vintage Leather, Exotic Woods.

What Tulpa Club Says:

a blend of palpable excitement and electric intrigue as you get ready for the evening. You’ve got butterflies. Isn’t fruit meant to calm the nerves? Your old wooden

from day into evening or even through a night out right to your taxi home. I prefer unique fragrances that stand out, and I can see this becoming a go-to for me in the future. The bottle exudes a boudoir vibe with its black glass, seductive red sphere lid, and floral label.

Fragrance Combination: 5/5

Bottle Aesthetics: 4/5

Scent Longevity & Projection: 5/5

OVERALL SCORE: 14

ATELIER MATERI SANTAL BLOND

100ml Eau De Parfum rrp £193

Also available in 10ml Eau De Parfum rrp £41 www.atelier-materi.com

Top notes: Bergamot, Cardamom

Mid notes: Jasmine, Sandalwood

Base notes: Hinoki Bourbon, Tonka Bean

What Atelier Materi Says:

Sacred tree, sandalwood is a peculiar exotic wood. Once distilled, powerful velvety, creamy notes with smoky undertones are unleashed. After a fresh and spicy opening carried by the cardamom, the perfumer pairs the sandalwood with rich floral jasmine notes and warm Tonka bean accents.

Gary’s Thoughts:

I adore fragrances that are based on tonka bean, and I also have a soft spot for bergamot and cardamom, so this scent really resonated with me. The blend of cardamom and bergamot creates a comforting warmth, and the woody notes become more prominent as the scent develops. It doesn’t have as strong a projection as some other fragrances I’ve tried, but I don’t mind that at all. There’s nothing worse than someone wearing an overwhelming fragrance at dinner. This would be perfect for those long summer evenings, paired with shorts, a shirt, and a light sweater.

Fragrance Combination: 4/5

Bottle Aesthetics: 3/5

Scent Longevity & Projection: 4/5

OVERALL SCORE: 11

SHAY & BLUE BLACK TULIP

10ml Travel Size Fragrance rrp £25

Also available in 30ml rrp £35 & 100ml travel size £65 www.shayandblue.com

Top notes: Snowdrops. Cyclamen. Mid notes: Black Tulip, Plum. Base notes: White Chocolate, Soft Woods.

What Shay & Blue Says:

Decadent as is deadly. Oriental plum flirts with creamy white chocolate and wood. Contrasts of fresh cyclamen with sensual undertones. A day-to-night fragrance. Pleasure and Perfection.

Anna’s Thoughts: It smells like a sweet floral meadow in the summer

dressing table is soaked in a lifetime of perfumes. You’ve tried on everything you own, but the leather jacket is the only constant. You’re almost ready for the first date. Spicy, leathery and fruity for day or night wear. Excellent longevity & great projection.

Anna’s Thoughts:

This fragrance has a spicy yet fruity scent that lasts

Fragrance Combination: 5/5

Bottle Aesthetics: 4/5

Scent Longevity & Projection: 3/5

OVERALL SCORE: 12

MARTIN M

The remake of mean girls made me think back 20 years to the original movie when I had just entered my teens and started acting. I always thought I was fatter that everyone else. The truth is due to my industry most people where over 6 foot and I was 5 foot 10 Inches so their height made them look visually slimmer and I created a narrative in my head that didn’t exist. I was smoking 20 cigarettes a day, drinking and partying every night and living off iced coffees during the day. On top of this I was going to auditions regularly and thinking that I wasn’t good enough to get the roles. I auditioned for the role in Cherrybomb that went to Rupert Grint and the role in Twilight that went to Cameron Bright. The truth is these I was too good at talking myself in to spaces that weren’t right for me.

When the movie ended I decided to go round to Union Street to check out a couple of the bars and I observed people on the street who had drunk way too much and thought to myself I don’t connect with it anymore. In fact I don’t think I really ever did. I think I was spending my time in bars to try to escape pressures.

When Covid came round I was working in the hospital and gave up smoking as I was at a higher risk of coming into contact with Covid Patients. During this time I was saving money on cigarettes and alcohol and not socialising due to restrictions so I put on over a stone.

Next I started working on supporting the health and wellbeing of the LGBTQ+ community across Ireland putting on another stone through stress and lack of sleep and more launch parties and events.

March 3rd was the day that I realised that over the last 20 years I had developed lifestyles that suit others and benefit others when really I needed to be selfish and focus on myself. This was the day I quit Smoking and drinking for myself and no one else. However I have continued to put on weight since and being surrounded by LGBTQ+ Athletes can kind of make you feel low but truth is apart from one or two bad apples most of the LGBTQ+ Athletes I have met are lovely and supportive which is why I am now going to focus on weight loss by investing further in LGBTQ+ health and fitness.

I was 73kg when I was 27 and now June 2024 on my 33rd birthday I am 95.1kg. The average weight of a man in his 30s is 94.4kg so honestly I am not over worried and I have seen enough people at all sorts of weights to know

that I have no interest in being skinny and unhappy. I just want to feel comfortable so my current aim is to get back to 82 KG over the next year at a target of 1 or 2 kg a month. Some might feel that’s not very much weight loss but I don’t have any shame in my weight or my body. Its pride month and people try to put shame on the LGBTQ+ community enough so I won’t accept shame. I am proud of my weight, it’s a reflection of what I have survived. I am proud to not be smoking and I am proud to not be drinking. I am proud to be announced as one of Belfast Lives 35 inspiring people under 35 for my community work across Ireland.

LET’S GET VISIBLE 2024!!!

This summer we want to see as many of you out and

active as possible working on your mental and physical health, not only for your own benefit but the more people we get active, the more members of the community we reach and we really want to reach out to members of the community who are more rural are older to show that inclusive sports are for everybody. We kicked off Pride Month in Dublin with LGBTQ+ Softball and Ulster’s newest LGBTQ+ team “Queens of The North” who won the entire tournament and unveiled their first kit in what I have to call the most successful launch of any LGBTQ+ Sports team in Ulster if not UK and Ireland.

The softball was followed up by Sporting Prides inclusive women’s sports day on June 8th followed by their inclusive men’s sports day on June 15th with support from Ireland Lacrosse, Dublin Frontrunners, Emerald Warriors, Conscious Connections and Studioten photography. I decided to focus on Dublin sports days this year and give Belfast a break as we prepare to take Ulster’s LGBTQ+ Sports teams into their new era with support from Belfast’s first LGBTQ+ Lord Mayor, the Right Honourable Micky Murray who I had the pleasure of chatting to alongside representatives from the leading LGBTQ+ organisations.

What I am most excited about is our inclusive rounder’s recruitment day taking place at 7pm on June 25th 2024. For more information contact LGBTQ+ Inclusive Rounder’s on Instagram or myself on martin.murray@sportingpride.ie We look forward to Dublin Pride where we will be joined for the first time by some of Belfast Azlans and then meeting with representatives and stakeholders from Belfast LGBTQ+ Sports organisations on July 13th to workshop through the future of LGBTQ+ Inclusive sports in Belfast. I look forward to updating you all on what I get up to throughout Belfast Pride.

Photo Credit: Mark Leddy

ELLISE

HAPPY PRIDE YOU BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE!

BELFAST PRIDE IS ON THE HORIZON AND EFR COACHING HAS HAD AN EXCITING MOVE TO A NEW PRIVATE TRAINING FACILITY IN ANTRIM! I FEEL THERE COULD NOT BE A BETTER TIME TO LET YOU IN ON AN AMAZING OPPORTUNITY TO JOIN MY PRIDE2POWER COMMUNITY. FOR THE FIRST TIME IN A WHILE, I AM NOW OPENING SPACES FOR SMALL GROUP PERSONAL TRAINING AT EFR COACHING!

THE GOOD NEWS a limited time offer for those who join in the weeks up to Belfast Pride!!! Join with a friend or partner for the price of one this whole month!

As empowering as it is to work on yourself it twice as fun to work as a team to reach your goals... After all, couples and friends that train together stay stronger together.

At EFR coaching we offer focus months with all our clients. This enables us to breakdown what needs to be happening throughout your health and fitness journey to achieve the long-term goals, without it feeling like a massive mountain to climb. Instead, we make it achievable and a promote a sustainable way to get your desired results to keep the momentum going.

I believe in the method so much so that both my partner and I are currently partaking in A focus month, along with my clients, who are absolutely killing it!!

My girlfriend is newer to the gym, it has been amazing to watch her make incredible progress so far and see her confidence grow in a gym environment. If anything, its motivated me watching her go from strength to strength.

Please note, this column is the opinion of the columinst and not that of GNI or Romeo & Julian

With exciting plans coming up for both of us, we have set our goals and jumped on a Focus month to drop some lbs, get stronger, really get ON IT with our health, fitness and wellness.

There have been tougher days with a few big moves for us both as of late. Doing the focus month together has got us out of our comfort zones as a couple. It has helped us to navigate the chaos as a team whilst recreating what we do together for quality time.

So, if you and your loved ones would like to achieve your goals for upcoming events or want to become stronger, fitter, grow your confidence while training together with the extra accountability - Jump on the PRIDE2POWER coaching opportunity.

Until then, I’ll share a few useful METHODS and REASONS for incorporating health and fitness into your daily dating life

by sharing what worked for us.

Working Out Together Solidifies Your Bond- Setting aside time to spend together is a great way to build intimacy. As you make time to exercise together, you are also sending the message to your partner that you are making them a priority. When you are both intentional about prioritising time together and agree on the same goal- focusing on health and wellness, a very good side effect is that your bond will be stronger. A willingness to grow as an individual and a shared focus on exercise reinforces a commitment about the future.

We took some time to reinvent some of our date ideas - As two foodies we love a little coffee/ dinner date and trying new places! We didn’t take the fun out of this, just made a few little swaps that served us well. Going for a proteinbased Picnic/BBQ now that its summer and ending the day with a walk at our fave spots! Cooking or prepping meals together is an ideal way to stay on track with nutritional goals and is surprisingly nice to do as a team.

Keeping active while enjoying time with each other- My girlfriend has experience in outdoor instruction. I teach her how to strength train effectively, in turn she teaches me how to rock climb and mountain bike (the correct way haha) - it has been a really fun way to change up the methods on how we exercise and learn more about each other.

A HIKE WITH OUR PUP- listen this has been a win-win for us and the dog! We are happy, the fur baby is happy. We can enjoy our time together while focusing on getting the steps in.

Rewarding ourselves with the things that give us joy - When the non-negotiables are ticked off, we both love being out in nature and getting on the Harley, letting the wind blow away any stress whilst feeling a little free from routine for a while. Which is important when keeping consistent over time. For those of you that get out on motorbikes, it’s a full body workout in itself, hats off to you!

Some of you may opt for a chiller option and enjoy cycling, I love that, get active no matter what it is. Make sure to prioritise the things you enjoy together.

TURN UP THE HEAT ;) Get hot and sweaty together!We came up with AMRAP workouts for a little friendly competition. You’re more likely to push yourself even harder since you’re trying to impress your partner too. Also, from experience a little Hot yoga date is a great little laugh to start the day together!

WELCOMING THE TUDOR BOUTIQUE TO QUEEN’S ARCADE

Northern Ireland’s leading luxury watch retailer, Lunn’s the Jewellers, has recently opened the first TUDOR Boutique in Ireland. Located in the prestigious Queen’s Arcade in the centre of Belfast, the newly opened showroom offers customers a luxury shopping experience like no other.

The opening of the Belfast TUDOR Boutique marks an exciting milestone for the brand as it continues to expand its presence globally. With its elegant and contemporary design, the Boutique reflects the essence of TUDOR’s commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and timeless style.

The TUDOR Boutique encompasses the TUDOR style with red, black, and grey colour hues combined with a mixture of high-quality finishes. The boutique is a reflection of the brand’s commitment to quality and precision, which has earned the brand a reputation for excellence in the watchmaking industry.

Each TUDOR timepiece is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring exceptional performance and durability. The TUDOR Boutique offers a vast range of men’s and women’s timepieces, including a range of classic, sport, diving and heritage inspired watches, as well as the exclusive Black Bay Fifty-Eight Bronze Boutique Edition which is available only at TUDOR Boutiques.

Queen’s Arcade remains one of Belfast’s signature landmarks. Steeped in history, the Arcade was built in 1880 as a fashionable promenade and business thoroughfare. It is Belfast’s only Victorian shopping Arcade and has recently undergone a £2.2m refurbishment to restore and elevate the Victorian charm with contemporary sophistication – forging a unique shopping experience fit for the modern era.

DANNY

HAPPY PRIDE EVERYONE

IN THE VIBRANT CITY OF BELFAST, THE ANNUAL GAY PRIDE CELEBRATION IS A TIME WHEN THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE LOVE, DIVERSITY, AND ACCEPTANCE. ONE

Gay Pride hairstyles in Belfast are not just about making a fashion statement; they are a powerful symbol of unity and empowerment. From elaborate rainbow-colored braids to daring pixie cuts with pride flag patterns, these hairstyles serve as a visual representation of the community’s resilience, strength, and unwavering commitment to equality.

As the streets of Belfast fill with the sounds of celebration and the colours of the rainbow, these unique hairstyles stand out as a testament to the progress made in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. They remind us that embracing one’s true self and celebrating individuality are acts of courage and defiance against discrimination and prejudice.

Each Gay Pride hairstyle tells a storya story of self-expression, of love, and of solidarity. It is a form of art that allows individuals to showcase their