Diamonds are a boy’s best friend

OCEAN Grove’s Jackson Landry has been selected to compete in the Mr Diamond Australia competition taking place in Brisbane on April 13.

“In November 2018, I got selected as a National Finalist for Mr Diamond Australia 2019. This was a very exciting and proud moment in my modelling career and a boost in confidence to keep going in the industry,” Mr Landry said.

According to the Mr Diamond Australia website they are more than just a beauty pageant: “we don’t judge on looks – size, weight, height limits – we celebrate the beauty and diversity of everyone”.

The competition seeks to challenge the industry standards and every contestant is required to choose an organisation to raise support and awareness for.

“My choice was Minus18. The reason behind that is I’m a member of the LGTBI community and have a lot of friends involved as well, it’s such a good organisation whom provide support for young people when its most needed,” he said.

Mr Landry said Minus18 have been supporting LGBTIQ youth for over 18 years.

“Since Minus18 has started they have helped more than 55,000 youth through events in Melbourne and Adelaide; 550,000 people who have received support online and over 192,000 have received physical support around Australia plus lots more.”

Having started modelling three years ago, Mr Landry said he hopes to continue following his passion and be a good role model within the LGBTI community.

“I started modelling in 2016 and just started with photo shoots, then I got into the Australia next top model finals but unfortunately didn’t get through as it was my first ever runway.

“I gained more experience on the runway for E&E management and the Minus18 Spring Fashion Show. Just moving here to Ocean Grove was a big change as in Bendigo it was stressful completing year 12, working three jobs and now I’m here chasing my dreams.

“I want to be a role model and to make a difference and a positive outlook on the youth of the LGBTI community especially in the regional area to show change can happen.”