‘Open’ about his identity
Nolan Lewis, India’s first ever Mr Gay contestant, brings to light the issues of the LGBT community
From being a tarot card reader to participating in Mr Gay 2013, the trumpets announcing the arrival of Nolan Lewis resounded long after the pageant concluded in Belgium earlier this year.
Not only is Nolan the pin-up model for the LGBT community in India, but the 29-year-old is also a counsellor for his gay clients who have doubled in number after the news about his identity came out.
“For the homosexual community, seeking counselling from heterosexuals doesn’t always work as they might not understand their problems. After participating in Mr Gay 2013, I developed a connection and found myself counselling more gays and lesbians,” says Nolan.
Though the situation might seem bleak for the LGBT community, Nolan is hopeful about 2014.
“I am actively involved in creating awareness through campaigns that aim to repeal the SC law. Now is the right time for people to open up about their identity, it will make a huge difference. There is a lot of anger among the LGBT community and this might just be the catalyst for change.”