Around about this time last year, I did a feature for theBUZZ about the Toronto Leather Community, which I just realized is TLC, which also stands for Tender Loving Care. Well that’s something to make you think.

So last year I earned my entrance into the leather community, and wrote an article about it. I wrote about how respectful the community is, and how it’s not all about dungeons, sex, and darkrooms, but rather a group of men that do some good, that explore themselves and welcome everyone.

On the flip side of that is how I noticed a clear lack of the younger generation, or others who don’t have that “Daddy Bear Bod” that we associate with the community. Which in turn I feel may be where the TLC maybe hitting it’s head against a wall. Mainly because there is no one out there representing the youngens to make them feel that regardless of age, body type, and kink, you will be welcome into the leather community!

It’s probably part of the reason why my attendance at leather events seemed to dwindle over the year, but then something happened. A member of the community sent me the links and info, with a message saying that the Universe has told them I should be in the running for MR LEATHER TORONTO 2016.

My immediate response was, “But oh my god my body…my look” and then I stopped. I thought to myself, “Wow. This is the chance for people like me in terms of look, body and mind to be represented in the TLC.” So, if no one else is going to do it… I will.

Therefore dear readers, friends and family, with INspired Media Inc./theBUZZ as my official sponsors, I will be representing those like me in entering Mr Leather Toronto 2016.

There’s no saying I’ll get through, or that I’ll come close to winning, but what I can say is that I’m taking the first INspired (see what I did there) step towards bridging the gap between the TLC and those of us who think we don’t belong.

Now if you’ll excuse me I have some forms to fill out and some flogging to practice.

LP1

About the Author

Brandon Michael Lee is a Toronto based Award Winning Event Designer, Writer and Filmmaker. He spends his days surrounded by his two dogs, cupcakes and coffee and one day dreams of having a big fat gay wedding. While on the outside, he is a fabulous and stylish gay man… on the inside he is a tool belt wearing, shelf building, Tori Amos listening lesbian. Oh and he loves beards and tattoos. http://www.brandonmichaellee.com http://www.style-me-manly.com