January 26, 2008
International Mr. Gay Picks Winner
David Foucher READ TIME: 2 MIN.
20 sexy, intelligent, globally conscious, and physically fit men took over Hollywood representing countries as diverse as Germany, Brazil, the UK, and Ireland to discover who would be named, International Mr. Gay (IMG). Carlos Fabian Melia ("Mr. Gay Argentina") was awarded over $10,000 in cash and prizes when he was named not only "Mr. Photogenic" but also the night's highest honor, "International Mr. Gay."
The standing room only event took place at the Music Box (Henry Fonda Theater) located at 6125 Hollywood Boulevard on Sunday January 20th, 2008. The house was packed with over 500 onlookers, supporters, and celebrities who watched more the delegates model Andrew Christian swimwear, perform dance numbers and answer questions from the judges.
This year's IMG winner, Carlos Fabian Melia (Mr. Gay Argentina), possesses model good looks, holds a bachelors degree in Business, and spends his extra time with fundraising efforts in his country. "I hope that we can one day come together in this world and fight a different cause and leave homophobia behind us," Melia said.
The 3rd Annual IMG also featured HERO Award recipient Nikolai Alexeyev, the organizer of the Moscow Pride march that was attacked in 2006 and 2007. Alexeyev said he never thought he'd receive an award in Hollywood, but is now armed with more confidence to continue breaking down barriers in his country.
Complete list of winners:
International Mr. Gay 2008 is Argentina (Carlos Fabian Melina)
1st Runner Up is Venezuela (Juan Bracho)
2nd Runner Up is UK (Mark Edward Carter)
Swimwear is Venezuela (Juan Bracho)
Mr. Popular - most online votes went to Brazil (Mark Edward Carter)
Mr. Congeniality is USA (Josh Robers)
Mr. Philanthropy is Cuba (Iran Montego)
Mr. Photogenic is Argentina (Carlos Fabian Melina)
IMG competition benefits Noble Beast Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) which depends on donations to support the Foundation's Mission, which is to "Advocate International Equal Rights by confirming the essential nature and contributions of gay men to a healthy society."
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David Foucher is the CEO of the EDGE Media Network and Pride Labs LLC, is a member of the National Lesbian & Gay Journalist Association, and is accredited with the Online Society of Film Critics. David lives with his daughter in Dedham MA.
