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Hallo julle / Haaai yooous

I must give honour where it's due...
CONGRATZ to Charl van den Berg, our very own Mr Gay South Africa and know as Worldwide Mr Gay 2010 in Oslo (previously known as Mr Gay World).
Wys jou net - ons land het die mooiste mans... and they kan make everyone drup with their combination of looks, charm, humour and most of all – brains.

Hoewel ek steeds sterk voel oor die punte wat ek gemaak het regarding the porn saga see the shortened version below), I still take my hat (and bra) off for the way Charl handled the debacle!

Please remember - I've written the post about the three contestants before the final and before Charl was crowned. When he released the statement below (which featured on Mamba shortly after the crowning), I gained respect for him and the organisers/directors again... and I can honestly say, I have hope for this competition to get the same ELITE GLAM PRESTIGIOUS status for a pageant in the league of Miss South Africa / Miss World / Miss Universe and Miss LEGENDS Orania pinkPanna (just joking with the last one).

With Charl winning this title, I can honestly say - the best man won (here and abroad)! And Ja... after this the South Africans can now sit up and take notice.
Congrats Charl... I salute you! I can now say you are an ambassador for they gay peeps...

Everyone makes mistakes... it's what you've learn from it, that counts!

History of a true-life soapie called - GAYS OF OUR LIVES...

• November 18, 2009 (Facebook)

PORN STARS VS ALL STARS

Are we crowning South Africa’s next Jeff Striker on November 28 when we are supposed to crown Mr Gay South Africa 2009???
Ok... so there I was, not minding my own business, drinking ‘n Gin and Tonic, singing with Taylor Swift to the sounds of my favourite current tune – You Belong with Me..... Masterb... I mean, mastering my mouse over a few “websites”... when I received an email of a good friend of mine... Broekie Luis. I don’t know WHERE he got this GOSS, but I just couldn’t help but share it with the world!
To put it blunt, hard and straight forward... Three of the Mr Gay South Africa Finalists 2009 are feauturing promply on a pornsite... all three hails from Cape Town, and two of these 3 contestants are “Director’s choices”
The Miss Britain got stripped of her title after a bar brawl with another beauty queen... that is how far that Title’s organisers will go to protect that title... If Mr Gay South Africa... will ever strive to walk in the shoes, their name tries to claim, their “Directors” should not invite “porn stars” or people modelling on porn sites... to be representatives. If the three contestants did it for more votes... then its even sadder.
Now the question is... who do we want to represent us? I’m sorry to say, and it’s not my only humble overwhelming opinion... BUTT crap like this, makes a competition like Mr Gay South Africa look slimey... I WILL NOT vote for a winner ...
(The mentioned porn site is www.liberatestudios.com)

• November 30, 2009 (copied from Mambaonline.co.za)

MR. GAY SA COMMENTS ON NUDE PICTURES...

In a statement, newly crowned Mr. Gay South Africa, Charl van den Berg, has said that nude pictures that he previously posed for did not affect his ability to be a role model. Below is his full statement to the judges and organisers of the event:
I usually would not respond to situations like these as I feel they tend to stem from misinformation, or misinterpretation of facts and therefore don’t need any justification as it would not change the minds of those select few who feed into such ‘news’. But it is because it challenges the credibility of not only the Competition and its Directors, but also the owners of Liberate Studios and every person who was involved in the photo shoots, in front of the camera as well as behind that I now have decided to release this statement.
I was raised to not be judgmental or prejudiced towards anybody, no matter their background, race, sexual orientation, status in society, or jobs they hold for that matter. I have always strived to uphold these values I was taught as a child.
When I was asked if I would like to do a photo shoot for a new company started up by an acquaintance, I had to think about it carefully. After serious consideration I made a decision to go ahead with the photo shoot. I knew the situation and also took into account the possible consequences that might come from my decision. As I have said in my personality synopsis, I strive to live life and experience the human experience in all its facets and so I chose to go ahead with the shoot (not to mention that it would also help me out of some financial strain at that stage).
Some people might think this was a terrible mistake to have made, as I work for one of the most prominent gay-owned and gay-friendly restaurant groups in Cape Town and therefore find myself in the public eye most of the time. Although some people were surprised at my choice after seeing the material (which was displayed at the Studio’s launch at a popular club in Cape Town), having known me for nearly three years, most of their views of me stayed the same and in fact I gained a greater respect from my peers for having the confidence to do it. Indeed I proved to them that just because I did a nude shoot, it didn’t make me less of a person, or mean that I had ‘stooped down’ to a substandard.
What I did gain from this experience however was a wider perspective and greater understanding about a section of our society which is often misunderstood, and therefore pre-judged by those who feel they know better. Fortunately I have learned in my life that you cannot judge unless you have walked in the same shoes as those whom you judge. And if you do judge, then it is usually out of your own insecurities or fears. I walked away from this experience a man who can now speak from an informed position, without prejudice towards anybody who has made this their livelihood ( please take note that I have not made a career out of this, but it was one experience I had). I am now able to stand up for that part of the community who do not always have a voice to defend themselves.
I know that it is the goal of this competition and its directors to select a candidate that can relate to everybody within the greater gay and lesbian society, no matter what your situation, or background or status etc. I believe that he should be somebody who speaks without condemnation, and who chooses to uplift those and support those around him in whatever their endeavours. I believe he should be somebody who is able to bridge the gap between differing mindsets and so bring consolidation to the gay community, which already has to fight so many battles to have a voice in this world. He should be somebody who is able to take a stand, unwaveringly and who is not moved by people’s opinions (we know how quickly these can change), but remains strong in his position as a leader and role model. This is why I chose to enter the Competition this year.
I do not feel it necessary to apologise to anybody or justify my actions. Those that choose to feed into such sensationalism tend to fade away quite fast and they soon become ‘yesterday’s news’. I will remain in my position, and I speak on behalf of the other two contestants (with their permission of course) that the photo shoots we did were maybe not something that is acceptable by the norm of society, but is a stark reality in our community (a reality which majority of gay men have no problem utilizing when the need calls). I do not see how this makes us any different to a person who for instance has his own private pictures on display on social networks like ‘gaydar’ or ‘manjam’ or ‘dudesnude’, to name but a few, or who sends his private pictures via mms or the like.
I do not intend to step on anybody’s toes with this statement but feel I have to bring to light the bigger picture here (yet while having the utmost respect for all parties involved).
I hope that this statement has served for the good of the Competition.
Kind regards
Charl van den Berg

• January 15, 2010 (http://www.mambaonline.com/article.asp?artid=4030)

MEET MR GAY SA

Cape Town’s Charl van den Berg was crowned Mr Gay South Africa late last year amid a flurry of controversy, thanks in part to some solo porn pictures published on a local gay adult site. The 28 year old Bloemfontein-born restaurant manager has been unrepentant, but the furore has led some to ask, is Charl a role model or is the entire Mr Gay SA pageant irrelevant? We got to know more about the man behind the fuss...
When did you first come out?
I first came out about four years ago, but I obviously knew that I was attracted to guys a while before that, even though I tried to deny it. It was pretty tough for me as it took me a while to come to accept myself for who I am. Coming from a religious Afrikaans background, it’s not the easiest thing. I just got tired of living a double life, straight to some people and gay to others. When I moved to Cape Town [after living in Bloemfontein and then Jeffreys Bay] it made it easier for me to simply just be who I am, right from the start.
Why do think so few gay men of colour took part in the Mr Gay SA pageant?
I know the invitation was out there. I also know that the organisers went out of their way to attract more entrants of colour as they wanted the competition as representative of the entire LGBTI community as possible. I think it boils down to the fact that it’s still tricky to be a gay man of colour in Africa and to be out in the open. I have personally spoken to a few gorgeous men of colour and they were not prepared to get themselves so out there in the public arena. We can just look at the recent events in Uganda, and also some of the hate crimes in our own country towards gay women of colour. Even though we have come a long way in SA, being gay is still a big taboo in some cultures, which makes it difficult. Hopefully the success of this year’s event and the fact that Iggi Mnisi [the 2nd Runner-Up] did so well and stood proud as an African man will change this in the future.
What would you do to help things along in that regard?
I think that the Mr Gay South Africa pageant has already taken a huge step forward. The second runner up is a man of colour. I told Iggy after the finale that I was so proud of him and that he had broken down a wall by simply being who he is and entering the competition. Who knows, maybe next year we will have a Mr Gay South Africa of colour!
How do you think you are able to represent such a diverse community?
It’s most definitely a big challenge. You could never fully understand a person’s experience unless you have actually lived it yourself, but you can try to gain some insight. I worked for a NGO for a few months while I was living in Jeffreys Bay, called The Joshua Project. We worked with kids on the street, to rehabilitate them back into their homes. So being based in the township and seeing life from that perspective you do gain some sense of what it must be like living in the townships, although not the whole picture I guess. The only way for me to represent the entire community is to live and learn, be honest to myself, my beliefs and to draw from the experiences of other greats such as Zachie Achmat, Judge Cameron and so on. But one thing is for sure, I am committed to this challenge and I will do my very best to make a difference for us all.
In your opinion, what are the most pressing issues facing the gay community in South Africa?
Most certainly HIV/Aids. Even though steps have been taken to help the situation, a recent survey shows that South Africans are dying younger and in greater numbers every year. We are far from having a victory over HIV/Aids and I don’t think there can ever be enough said and done to help promote responsible sex and sex education in our country. Thank goodness our new government is doing something more drastic about it – a step in the right direction. Other issues such as homophobia, hate speech, violence against gay men and women are all important. We have a long way to go and I’m looking forward to tackling some of these issues.
There’s been some negative publicity about your nude pictures. Do you regret having done them now?
No. I have made a public statement to present my side of the story.
Would you ever consider doing hardcore porn?
No. I never considered it.
Some question if you are fit to be a role model for the gay community because of those pictures? How would you respond?
I would say that they should try to get to know me better before they judge my character or ability to be a role model. I proved to them that just because I did a nude photo shoot, it didn’t make me less of a person. My heart is in the right place, my commitment is known and the coming year will prove that I am willing and able to play an important role in the community. I will represent the entire LGBTI community as far as possible.
How does your family feel about the pictures? Did they know about them before this all came out in the press?
They are my family and family stick together - no matter what. They might have been a bit surprised, but they respect my decisions as a grown man. I’m still their grandson, son, brother, cousin and friend.
Did you learn anything from the experience?
What I gained from this experience was a wider perspective and greater understanding about a section of our society which is often misunderstood, and therefore pre-judged by those who feel they know better. I have learned in my life that you cannot judge unless you have walked in the same shoes as those whom you judge. And if you do judge, then it is usually out of your own insecurities or fears.
Do you think gay men are too obsessed with sex, pornography and hooking up on dating sites? Are we too promiscuous?
I think too much emphasis is put on GAY men here! It’s part of that prejudice that put us in a bad light. Yes, gay men like having sex, and yes they like watching porn and yes they are on dating sites etc, but so is the straight community! It’s not as if there are no straight dating sites or no straight sex happening. Goodness, that’s how gay men are born! [Laughs] Maybe we are a bit more outspoken about it because we have gained the confidence to speak out, but I definitely do not think it’s because we are gay.
How much competition was there between the contestants? Was there any bitchiness?
Well, from the beginning there was such a great sense of brotherhood instead of competition. We all got along from the start and I think we all realised that just being there was such an honour. Obviously, after the cruise and the rehearsals and photo shoots and lack of sleep you do tend to become a bit edgy, but that’s natural.
Give us some gossip! Are you aware of any of the finalists hooking up with one another? Did you?
I plead the fifth! [Laughs]
What does it mean to be Mr Gay SA?
I think for our community it means a lot. Mr Gay South Africa is someone that can relate to everybody within the greater gay and lesbian society, no matter what your situation, or background or status. I believe that he should be somebody who speaks without condemnation, and who chooses to uplift and support those around him in whatever their endeavours. I believe he should be somebody who is able to bridge the gap between differing mindsets and so bring consolidation to the gay community, which already has to fight so many battles to have a voice in this world. He should be somebody who is able to take a stand, unwaveringly and who is not moved by people’s opinions, but remains strong in his position as a leader and role model.
What are you looking forward to the most during your reign?
Most definitely the people I will meet along my way. I hope they will be lasting acquaintances and, who knows, maybe even lasting friendships. Oh, and my trips to New York and to Oslo for the Mr. Gay World Ambassador competition.
What’s your dream job, career or profession?
Well, I have two passions in life, people and music. It has always been a dream of mine to be a rock star. [Laughs] No seriously! I love entertaining people and if I could do it with my music, then why not?
What car do you drive around in?
I’m in the process of buying a new car. Still trying to make up my mind on which of the sexy new models on the market to choose. I’ll keep you updated!
What do you do to relax and chill?
Whenever I can, I like to go to the beach. If I’m in a ‘me-space’ moment I prefer just sitting at a coffee shop reading and contemplating. Other than that, I love hanging out with my mates, wherever we are!
What would be the perfect date for you?
As nice as the typical candle-lit dinner with champagne and oysters can be, I’m far more impressed by the thought that goes into a date. A lovely sunset on Signal Hill with a Hunters Dry, or two, and someone who likes or loves me for who I am. It’s the small things that matter to me.
How would you describe your ideal man?
I guess someone who can be my equal in life, and can challenge me on every level. I have a serious weakness for dark features. Dark hair, dark eyes, a mysterious look and this guy is hooked. [Laughs]
Do you believe in monogamy in a relationship or do you think that’s an outdated heterosexual concept?
I don’t think it has anything to do with hetero- or homosexuality at all. But I do think that it depends on where you’re at in your life. Some people choose to have ‘open’ relationships, and if that’s where they are at then fine. Others reach a point in their life where they truly choose to only be with one partner sexually, in which case I am all for that.
What are your thoughts on gay marriage? Is that something you would consider in your life?
Well it’s incredible to have the privilege of same-sex marriage in South Africa. Although I think marriage happens way before the piece of paper you sign and the celebration and confetti. When the right guy comes along, I’m sure I’d be the first to call the wedding planner!
What do you love most about living in Cape Town?
Everything! Sorry Jozi, but Cape Town rocks! I love the people, the weather, the diverse cultures and scenery. I could go on forever...
What are your favourite restaurant, club or bar and shop in the city?
Not to be biased, but definitely Café Manhattan, which I manage in Seapoint, for home-style food. Wakami for sushi - they kick ass! Bars, I’d say Adam and Eve Lounge is my favourite. But not to diss any of the other places in the pink block. They all have different vibes, so it depends on my mood. Definitely also Chevelle in the city and, on the odd occasion, The Waiting Room. But there are so many places out there to discover...
Your favourite sexiest male celebrity – local and international?
Locally, most definitely Dene Botha [Mambaonline’s Sexiest Man of 2009]. Well done for picking him! Internationally, Jonathan Rhys Meyers. Without a doubt. There’s that mysteriousness I was talking about earlier...
Speedo or board shorts on the beach?
Board shorts!
How much time do you spend in the gym?
I go about four times a week. It’s the only time I have available.
What about your body do you like and dislike the most?
I like my body the way it is. I think God did a pretty good job. All I do is maintaining, but I wouldn’t mind bigger arms though. It’s kind of a fetish.
Do you think being crowned Mr Gay SA will improve your sex life or romantic life?
[Laughs] I think the question should be, do I have time for a romantic life?

• February 14, 2010 (http://www.mambaonline.com/article.asp?artid=4131)

MR. GAY SA WINS WORLD TITLE IN OSLO

At just after three in the morning local time on Valentine’s Day, Charl van den Berg, Mr. Gay South Africa, was crowned as the Worldwide Mr. Gay 2010 in Oslo, Norway.
The competition (previously known as Mr. Gay World) drew delegates from all over the world representing all of the continents. Australia came second and the rest of the top five were made up of Hong Kong, Spain and China. Both Mr. Photogenic and Mr. Swimwear were won by Russia and Brazil took the Mr. Popularity title. The competition was streamed live on the internet to viewers around the world.
“The competition is very tough, but I am confident," said van den Berg from Oslo just before the start of the finale. That confidence shone through when he had to answer a question put to the final five finalists: “If you were to speak to a high school about sexuality, what would you tell them?”
Van den Berg clearly impressed the judges with his answer: “Sexuality is a private matter. Regardless of what your sexuality is, we are all the same – we are all human beings.”
"The LGBTI community in South Africa have expressed their jubilation at his win through e-mails, text messages and messages of congratulations on social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter, which started rolling in directly after his win in Oslo," said the directors of Mr. Gay SA - Juan Lerm, Coenie Kukkuk and Cor Jansen van Rensburg - in a statement.
Twenty eight year old van den Berg won the local title at a glamorous pageant ceremony at the State Theatre in Pretoria in November last year.
Morten Ruda, President of Mr. Gay Europe, congratulated the local organisers on van den Berg's win, stating: “He has made a deep impression on all of us here in Oslo! Well deserved. Best wishes for all his future endeavours.”
The newly crowned Worldwide Mr. Gay’s first duty will be to fly to Vancouver, Canada to take part in the festivities of the 2010 Winter Olympics. While there, van den Berg will be an ambassador for equality and diversity while taking part in the Pride House – a safe space that brings visibility to LGBTI people in sport.
Van den Berg is also expected to attend Cape Town Pride later this month and the Pink Loerie Mardi Gras in Knysna, which takes place at the end of April. According to Mr. Gay SA organisers, supporters in Cape Town have already indicated that they want to stage a huge party in celebration once van den Berg returns to the Mother City.
Mr. Gay South Africa's directors thanked all of the people who made the 2009 Mr. Gay South Africa competition and van den Berg's trip to Oslo possible, specifically sponsors Club Travel Honeydew, Peter Bondisio of Bondisio Couture, Wilco Stemmet from Bone Wear, Paul Fouche from GF, Diesel and Jean Paul Gaultier.
Worldwide Mr. Gay describes itself as a "twenty First Century beauty contest where the delegates represent their nation as the best spokesperson and embody the spirit of their nation".

Cheers

P@`

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WARNING

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