Artist Luc de Muelenaere to Represent South Africa at Mr Gay World 2024

Mr Gay World South Africa has announced that Luc de Muelenaere will represent South Africa at the upcoming Mr Gay World contest in England, Great Britain.

Luc, 41, was born in South Africa to a Belgian father and a South African mother. A self-taught painter, sculptor, and inventor, he resides in the Dordogne region of southwest France. There, he runs a concert and drag venue while caring for his elderly father and sharing his home with two dogs and two cats.

“We are proud to have someone of Luc’s calibre and talents representing our country as a delegate at Mr Gay World 2024,” said Johann Van Niekerk, Director of Mr Gay World South Africa, in a statement. “He brings a breadth and depth of experience and insight to the role, which we believe will see him truly shine in the contest.”

Luc is renowned for his impressive glass sculptures, created by shaping melted wine bottles. He has expanded into designing dishes, cocktails, and show gowns, with interests in painting, reading, writing, and filmmaking. Beyond his artistic endeavours, Luc is dedicated to driving social change, engaging in various social and humanitarian projects.

“Representing South Africa on the global stage fills me with immense pride and honour,” said Luc. “This is more than participating in a beauty pageant; it’s an opportunity to be an ambassador and an agent for change for the LGBTQIA+ community.”

Luc continued: “Growing up in the 1990s as a young queer man was a challenge, and acceptance was far less common than it is today. As Mr Gay World South Africa 2024, I hope my life experiences will inspire and support others on their path to self-realisation.”

Mr Gay World is dedicated to identifying an ambassador and role model for the LGBTQIA+ community. The 2024 edition will take place in northeast England from 21 August 2024, culminating in the crowning of the winner during the Grand Finale ceremony on 26 August.

The Mr Gay World delegates will be hosted at Northumberland’s Alnwick Castle, known for its appearances in popular films and television series like Harry Potter and Downton Abbey.

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