From an extremely strict, traditional, Catholic upbringing, to the battle for LGBTQIA rights
A former Mr Gay Europe has a message.
“The prejudice that irks me the most is the stigma that being LGBTQIA+ is unnatural,” says Jackson Netto, who won the coveted title in 2007.
“It is even more disturbing when educated members of society are prejudiced and hold limiting notions,” says Netto, 38, who is now a marketing communications manager at Global University Systems in London.
Growing up in Kerala, India, Netto had a rigorous education, and to this day, he participates in holy mass and prays every day.
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“My religious beliefs have always been a source of strength and hope,” he says.
“To me, it is a form of meditation that keeps me grounded, fills me with gratitude and is built on two paramount principles: to forgive and not to judge.”
Feeling ashamed
Netto left his home in Kerala partly as he was bullied throughout his childhood for being overweight, and later in life for being gay. At the age of 17, he moved to Germany and pursued an MA in Pedagogy, English Literature and Linguistics, and came to London in 2014 to join Global University System.
But despite his current success, Netto grew up feeling ashamed. Those feelings and experiences have shaped him, he says, whilst encouraging him to rise up against discrimination and become passionate about being a voice and source of strength for those in need.
Caroline Paige, 61, Co-Chair of Fighting with Pride (a newly forming LGBT+ group), says that Netto is “genuinely one of the nicest guys anyone can meet.
Jackson Netto, former Mr Gay Europe 2007
“He has a beautiful soul, he cares about people, and he’s always there with a hug if anyone needs one.”
Paige, the first transgender officer to openly serve in the UK armed forces, believes that the media remains negative about trans people, and is always trying to damage efforts toward acceptance and inclusion.
“We still have a long way to go before wider society truly understands though, when people can live their lives openly with freedom and safety wherever they are,” she says.
Changing hearts and minds
Netto’s journey has been interesting, trying to open minds and change people’s perspectives.
When he had the opportunity to represent Germany at the Mr Gay Europe competition, the main motivation was to create more visibility, combat discrimination and become a source of inspiration to those who are ashamed of their sexuality or afraid to live their truths.
Contrary to popular belief, Netto is more of an introvert.
“I was humbled, honoured and felt very happy when I heard the announcement,” says Netto remembering the day he was crowned.
Netto’s partner, Iain O’Neill, 33, Head of Innovation at Corona Extra, describe him as “unconditionally devoted”.
“I never experienced such endless, unwavering, powerful love as a friend or fiance.
“He puts up with a lot from me, and I am incredibly thankful and lucky to have him by my side as a constant source of strength.”
You can find out more about Jackson Netto and his fight for LGBTQIA+ rights on his social media channels:
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