I am ready to become a role model for the whole community and the whole world, because I want to help people. I want to show people that you can be yourself and be proud of who you are.

Recently I became Mister Gay Belgium 2019 and I want to continue my work across the countries.

My story is a positive one, although I first was very scared for all the reactions of my family and friends, scared of losing them. I tried to be some else, someone people expected me to be. But at one point you realize that you cannot act your whole life, you just HAVE to be yourself.

Then I decided to tell my closest friend who I really was. They all were very supportive as my family was, so I really realise how lucky I was.

There was only “one” more problem, I was a football player and Gay…

I talked a lot with my family and friends what I needed to do, because I knew no openly gay football player. I didn’t know what to do, but I knew I didn’t want to lie anymore to my football friends. So I decided to tell my friends in the changing room and they all were very understanding. They said, well you already play football for ages with use, so we will not see you different. I was so relieved. I want to share this story, not only in Belgium but also in the world because I want to help players with their coming out. I want to be the sign that you can be yourself in your sportclub.

For me, an election like Mr Gay Europe is very important, it gives you the opportunity to work across all countries, get the know all the problems in the different countries and try to find solutions together and make life more valuable.

It reminds me of the following saying: Together Everyone Achieves More (TEAM), and I really believe in that.