
I am a gender-fluid creative professional and global thinker with a passion for the arts and human connection. My gender identity is male, yet I express myself freely and authentically, embracing both masculine and feminine energies. At my core, I am an empathetic, open-minded, and compassionate individual who genuinely values people—no matter their nationality, background, gender identity, or story. With over 15 years of experience in the creative industry, I have established myself as a Senior Retoucher and professional photographer specializing in skin, hair, portrait, fashion, and lifestyle imagery. My work has been featured in renowned publications like Harper’s BAZAAR, showcasing my attention to detail and dedication to visual storytelling. Beyond my retouching and photography expertise, I am an experienced mentor, speaker, and workshop leader. I’ve shared my knowledge on topics such as community building, personal branding, social media, and photography at institutions like the British University Vietnam and the United Nations International School. Diversity and inclusivity are at the heart of my values. Growing up in a multicultural household, with roots tracing back to Belize, England, Mayan, Mexican, Spanish, Italian, Scottish, Irish, and African heritage, I developed a profound respect for different perspectives and cultures. Although born in Germany and raised in the UK, my life experiences in North America and Asia have shaped my worldview and enriched my approach to creative work. My time in Vietnam especially has left a lasting imprint on me; it’s where I truly discovered my sense of belonging and deep connection with local communities. Professionally, I am not just a creator; I am a leader and innovator. I’ve founded four global creative agencies, which has taught me the nuances of entrepreneurship and community leadership. As a peer advisor and coach, I am passionate about empowering others to pursue their ambitions and build meaningful connections. My workshops and coaching sessions blend practical knowledge with genuine inspiration, tailored to help people unlock their potential. In my journey, I strive to merge creativity with authenticity. I aim to disrupt norms and foster an environment where self-expression and inclusivity are celebrated—whether in front of a camera, in collaborative workspaces, or in everyday interactions. I believe in being a role model not by fitting into the conventional mold, but by embodying vulnerability, resilience, and relentless pursuit of one’s passions. In a world that’s ever-changing, I seek to be the constant that celebrates uniqueness, drives creativity, and advocates for understanding and unity.
I fully support any initiative that disrupts the conventional norms of the fashion industry. The Fashion Hero is a powerful movement that celebrates individuality, uniqueness, and diversity—values I hold close to my heart. In today’s world, where so many people feel pressured to conform to unrealistic beauty standards perpetuated by the fashion industry, shows like this are essential. Growing up, I was often teased and bullied for being different, or as I now proudly see it, unique. If a show like The Fashion Hero had existed back then, it could have been a beacon of hope and empowerment for me and countless others dealing with self-doubt and insecurities. With younger generations spending more time online, constantly bombarded by curated images of beauty, it’s more important than ever to provide role models who are diverse, real, and relatable. The current landscape is still filled with copy/paste models, a template that has persisted for far too long. We need fresh faces and voices that represent a wide array of backgrounds and experiences. The Fashion Hero is taking a meaningful step in that direction, fostering representation and empowerment. Supporting this cause feels natural to me, as my personal values perfectly align with what the show is aiming to achieve.
I embody the essence of a true Global Citizen, shaped by diverse genetics and a rich history of travel. My unique ability to adapt and connect across cultures has often seen me described as a chameleon, capable of resonating with almost any nationality simply by changing my hair and clothes. This generation has been born into an era of globalization, where identities, backgrounds, and ethnicities are increasingly mixed. We need role models who represent this beautiful blend—someone who can reflect the stories of those with multifaceted roots. I am that person. My mother’s journey from Belize, a developing country, to the UK taught me resilience and gratitude from an early age. Growing up with limited resources instilled humility and a deep appreciation for life, enabling me to relate closely with those from immigrant backgrounds or less privileged upbringings. I have lived the struggle, and I understand it firsthand. For years, I battled body dysmorphia and low self-confidence due to over a decade of bullying and the lack of acceptance I faced for being different. Teased for being slim and called “Adrian The Alien,” I spent much of my youth feeling like an outsider. It wasn’t until I began traveling, immersing myself in diverse cultures, and meeting people with different perspectives that I found self-love and acceptance. I discovered that the very traits I was once mocked for were what made me unique and strong. Embracing this realization empowered me to become my own role model. Today, I am a testament to overcoming adversity and thriving through embracing individuality, diversity, and self-love. I would make an excellent face for The Fashion Hero because I am living proof that confidence and beauty come from accepting what sets you apart. My story of resilience, growth, and embracing uniqueness can inspire countless others to see the beauty in themselves and stand tall as their authentic selves.