Alfredo Ferreyra MGW Latin America Director Caribbean, Mexico, Central, & South America - Johannesburg 2012 Delegate Handbook

Delegates’ Handbook

Mr. Gay World 2012

Johannesburg • South Africa • April 4-8, 2012

Welcome                                                                                            4

Message from your hosts                                                          4

Things to know...                                                                             5

Host Hotel:                                                                                   5

Media, Photo Shoots, & TV/Movie Filming                            6

Rehearsals                                                                                   6

Outfits:  Minimum required clothing needed for competition         6

* National Costume                                                               6

* Club wear                                                                             7

* Casual wear                                                                         7

* Smart wear                                                                          7

* Business wear                                                                     7

* Formal wear                                                                        7

Clothing MGW12 will Provide for Competition                     7

* Formal wear                                                                        7

* Swim wear                                                                           7

* Sash                                                                                       8

Other items to bring from your home Country                     9

Thank you Gifts                                                                      9

Special Items                                                                          9

Medicine & Personal Items                                                 9

Calendar of Events MGW12                                                         10

PUBLIC:                                                                                      10

PRESS:                                                                                        10

DELEGATES AND JUDGES:                                                       10

PROGRAMME:                                                                            11

Tue 3 Apr:                                                                              11

Wed 4 Apr: OFFICIAL PROGRAMME STARTS:                 11

Thu 5 Apr:                                                                              12

Fri 6 Apr: (Public Holiday)                                                 13

Sat: 7 Apr:                                                                             13

Sun: 8 Apr:                                                                             14

Mon: 9 Apr: (Public Holiday)                                             14

Tuesday: 10 Apr:  Post MGW (optional*) Cape Town excursion         14

RULES, REGULATIONS & FREQUENTLY ASK QUESTIONS      15

South African Law                                                                16

Be Alert - Common Sense                                                  17

Language & Culture                                                             17

Some common phrases                                                      19

GAY OR LGBTI HISTORY                                                    20

Baggage                                                                                 20

Arrival & Registration                                                         20

Currency (as of March 2012)                                             21

Electricity                                                                              21

If you win                                                                              21

MGW12 Awards                                                                    21

Mr. Congeniality                                                                   22

People’s Choice Award                                                       22

SPONSORS AWARDS FITNESS CHALLENGE WINNER   22

MR. PHOTOGENIC                                                                22

BEST IN NATIONAL COSTUME                                           22

BEST IN SWIM WEAR                                                          22

Winner of the Outreach Programme:  Mr. College SA World      22

The interview                                                                       23

Administration points                                                         23

The Personal Interview                                                      23

Sample Interview Questions                                                 24

Press / Media                                                                            26

Mr. Gay World Prizes                                                                    27

Mr. Gay World 2012 Winner will receive the following:  27

First Runner Up thru to Fourth Runner Up                          28

RELEASE OF LIABILITY, WAIVER OF CLAIMS, ASSUMPTION OF RISKS AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT BY SIGNING THIS DOCUMENT YOU WILL WAIVE CERTAIN LEGAL RIGHTS, INCLUDING THE RIGHT TO SUE. 29

Simplified Adult Release                                                        31

Mr. Gay World Expectations                                                        32

Mr. Gay World Exclusive Contract - Title Winner              34

Welcome

Your historic journey begins in South Africa...

Message from your hosts

The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.      - Nelson Mandela

5It is with my greatest pleasure I welcome the Delegates to the 2012 Mr. Gay World Competition.

Your participation in this annual event is crucial to our global movement in making this a better and safer place for all of our citizens.   Let the competition begin, see you in Johannesburg! - Eric Butter, President & Co-Founder of Mr. Gay World Ltd.

Welcome to Africa!  We are delighted to welcome you to our Rainbow Nation.  This is your official Mr. Gay World 2012 handbook.  This information was put together to make your stay in Johannesburg and the competition as pleasant, easy and memorable as possible.  Please read this information carefully. It will prepare you for the competition.  It will give you important information and hopefully it will show the way to a once in a lifetime experience!  We have been preparing your stay with a team of very dedicated and welcoming people. We will do our very best to make sure that this competition will be a positive experience for you all. - Coenie Kukkuk, Regional Director Africa, Co-Executive Producer Mr. Gay World 2012_6__#$!@%!#__pastedGraphic.pdf ¬

Things to know...

Planning your trip to get the most out of your MGW12 experience

7Host Hotel: 

Your host hotel is the five diamond Fairway Hotel & Spa

Setperk Street, Randpark (Randpark Golf Course),

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa,

Tel: +27 (0)11 478 8000

Please have your entourage contact the hotel direct for any additional rooms they may need.

Johannesburg enjoys pleasant weather all year round. Indeed, this is amongst the city's main attractions for travelers. One of the reasons for such a great climate is the fact that Johannesburg is located at high altitude, at some 1,753 metres / 5,751 feet above sea level.  You can expect temperatures to range from day time high’s of 18C-24C to overnight lows of 10C-18C (50F-75F).  Dress light colored and comfortable clothes. You may bring hats, visors, sunglasses, sunblock, flipflops and other summer paraphernalia.

Media, Photo Shoots, & TV/Movie Filming

Many of the activities, as well as the final competition will be videotaped. Delegates must understand that the show may be broadcasted domestic and foreign, without any limitations, and without any fee to the contestants. All Delegates must be willing to be photographed and videotaped at all times.

Rehearsals

Technical Rehearsal will be held Saturday afternoon, and on the day of the FINALE (Sunday, April 8th, 2012). They are hard work, but necessary! The people guiding you through your rehearsals are highly-respected professionals who know exactly what it takes to make you look your best.  Your success and stage confidence will depend upon your willingness to BE COOPERATIVE. PLEASE LISTEN TO DIRECTIONS, FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS AND ALWAYS BE ON TIME!  For rehearsals, you should wear what will be most comfortable for movement and stage practice. A very comfortable pair of shoes is most important.

For dress rehearsals you should wear what you will be wearing in the contest finale.

* Please note that your family, friends, boyfriends and National Directors will not be able to attend stage rehearsals.

* All mobile phones must be switched off or set to the silent mode during rehearsals and the show!

Outfits:  Minimum required clothing needed for competition

* National Costume

A costume or outfit that tells something about where you are from.  It should evoke nationalism, culture, and/or identity of your country that you want to portray. 

* Club wear

Something you would like to wear if you went out for a night in the town (two different nights)

* Casual wear

Something you would normally wear around town nice blue jeans and a white and a black T-shirt

* Smart wear

Something you would wear out or a nice dinner - no jeans allowed

* Business wear

Something you would like to wear for a job interview / PANEL INTERVIEW

* Formal wear

Please bring black dress shoes and a black dress belt.  GF Men’s wear will provide the suit

Clothing MGW12 will Provide for Competition

MGW12 producers have been working hard in securing sponsors and donors to help with some of your  wardrobe needs. 

* Formal wear

MGW12 is proud to be able to provide formal wear for all of the delegates the night of the Grand Finale sponsored by GF Men’s Wear.  The clothes will be on LOAN to you for the night so please be respectful of the garments.  You will NEED to bring your own BLACK dress shoes.

* Swim wear

MGW12 is proud to be able to work with our sponsor, Bone Wear, and provide you with undergarments as well as swimming attire for all of your official photo shoots and public presentations.  Please NOTE:  Bone Wear is the ONLY swimwear label you are allowed to wear during the competition, and if crowned MGW12 the only swimwear you are allowed to wear during your rein. 

Remember! In given situations you will be asked to wear the “Club Wear”, “Swim Wear”, “Business Wear” and in those situations you are going to be judged and given points.

We encourage you (maybe with the help of your National Director) to select a wardrobe so that you feel confident and comfortable throughout the Competition and during the official events of the competition. Your outfits should make you look and feel your absolute best. Remember you may be judged in your attire.

* Sash

Uniform Sash will be provided by MGW. But you can also bring your own sash (optional)

Other items to bring from your home Country

Thank you Gifts

Please bring a small gift (small souvenir from your country) for your co-delegates as well as something for your host “Hen-Mothers” and other people that you want to say thank you to.  It is customary to exchange gifts in a token gesture of appreciation of meeting for the first time.

Special Items

✦        Please also bring a souvenir for auction. Proceeds of the auction will go to MGW’s chosen charities.

✦        Bring a gay magazine from your country so your fellow delegates can see what your home country’s magazines look like.

✦        Please bring five or so children’s books (ages 2-12 years old) to be donated to the local charity and outreach program for 2012

Medicine & Personal Items

✦        Bring your own supply of medicine (motion sickness, fever, headache, colds, etc.)

✦        Bring sun block, sunglasses & your own vanity kit and make-up.

_Calendar of Events MGW12

PUBLIC:

All evening events from Thursday, April 5th, daytime visits to the Maropeng, Lesedi and Apartheid Museum, as well as the sports challenge on Friday, April 6th are open to the public.  Additional venue/site fees may be applicable.  The public is welcomed to spend Easter 2012 with MR GAY WORLD.

PRESS:

PLEASE NOTE: PRESS CONFERENCE  Wednesday, April 3rd at 12:45pm at the  FAIRWAY Hotel & Spa  www.thefairway.co.za . Accreditation for Grand Finale – write to coeniek@mrgsa.co.za with ‘press accreditation’ in the header.

DELEGATES AND JUDGES:

Full programme below. Please be on time and show respect to your fellow delegates and hosts. Breakfast complimentary every day at 8 am unless otherwise indicated.  Lights out each evening at midnight ☺.

PROGRAMME:

Tue 3 Apr:

8 am: Some delegates, producers, judges and visitors start arriving at  (JNB) OR Tambo International, Johannesburg. Transport to The Fairway Hotel by MGW – look out for Mr GW desk upon arrivals in arrival hall.  Check into hotel for duration of stay (see www.thefairway.co.za) . (Free time)

7.30 pm Dinner: (own, not supplied). (Free time)

Wed 4 Apr: OFFICIAL PROGRAMME STARTS:

Day:

8 am – 9 am: Breakfast 9 am: Free time.

12.00 pm: Latest arrivals in SA before 12 noon, pick up last delegates at airport as they arrive, drop off of luggage at Fairway Hotel.  Judges & delegates: Keep overnight bag for trip to Askari Lodge (jacket, set of summer clothes & sandals/flip flops & toiletries including sunblock and sunglasses).

12 – 12.45 pm: Lunch: (own).

12. 45 pm – PRESS CONFERENCE
2 pm: ONLY delegates, judges and directors: Transport to Askari Lodge (2 hr drive)

See http://www.askarilodge.co.za/ (overnight bag only).

4.30 pm: Game Drive by game rangers in safari vehicles. Environmental Challenge – tested on new knowledge gained from rangers as well as LGBTI general knowledge & history after dinner (written).

Night:

6 pm: Meet & greet and orientation of events, room allocations etc. Judging, rules and Grand Finale explained.

7.30 pm: Traditional Dinner (Mr GSA sponsored and supplied). 'Boma' social.

9 pm: Fitting of formal wear in batches of three delegates at a time.

Rest – free time.

Thu 5 Apr:

Day:

Askari Lodge:
8 am – 9 am: Breakfast (Visitors may join at Askari for breakfast – please book at Asakari).

9 am: Elephant Experience. (Visitors may join at Askari – please book at Asakari).

12 am: Leave for Maropeng (http://www.maropeng.co.za/ ) and Lesedi Village Cultural Experience (http://www.lesedi.com/ ). Free entry to MGW group excl. visitors.

1 – 2 pm: Lunch packet for travel supplied by Askari.

4 pm: Back to Fairway hotel, check in etc. those who have not yet checked into rooms. Free time.
(At Fairway Hotel for rest of the competition).

Night:

5.00pm VIP reception at the Belgium Consulate

6.30 pm Dinner at Melon Restaurant, Melville (sponsored for delegates, judges & directors) (Producers & visitors may join – book with restaurant here: melonlounge@mweb.co.za ). Open to Public.

9 pm: Drive to Pretoria to Plum Nightclub for social. Entry free for all MGW group excluding visitors. Public: R80. Hill street, Arcadia.

Fri 6 Apr: (Public Holiday)

Day:

8 am – 9 am: Breakfast

9 am – 12 am: Sports Challenge at Fairway Hotel (“Survivor”-type event).

Public event to reserve email:  coeniek@mrgsa.co.za with “Sport” in the header. Producers & visitors may join. Cost: Including full lunch buffet: R275 pp. Max. 40.

12 noon: Meet fans at swimming pool, relax
1 pm: Buffet lunch (supplied for delegates, judges & directors). Rest: R275 – max 40.

2 – 7 pm: Panel Interview with judges & Photo Shoot.
NB: Delegates NOT interviewed: Lexus photo shoot.

Night:

7.30 pm: Dinner @ Fairway (not supplied). Open to Public. Book through Fairway.

9 pm: Leave for Babylon the Bar for social. Open to Public.

Sat: 7 Apr:

Day:

8 am – 9 am: Breakfast

9 am: Leave for Cultural Experience: Apartheid Museum (Gold Reef City). Free entry to MGW group excl. visitors. Open to Public. No need to book. Entry R55 pp.

12 am: Outreach Children’s Charity

1 – 2 pm: Lunch Fairway (not supplied)

2 pm: Free time

3 – 6 pm: Meet choreographer and explanation of Grand Finale (Fairway). First rehearsals.

Night:

7 pm: Official Charity Auction & Dinner (supplied), Fairway Hotel (sponsors invited). Dress: Smart (no jeans). Open to public – book here: coeniek@mrgsa.co.za with “Dinner” in the header. Cost: R350 pp, max 40.

Sun: 8 Apr:

Day:

8 am – 9 am: Breakfast
9 am: Leave for rehearsals The Lyric Theatre 10 am – 1 pm: Rehearsals
1 – 2 pm: Lunch (supplied)
2 – 5 pm: Rehearsals

Night:

6 pm: Dinner (supplied)
7 pm: Dress for first scene
8 pm: Grand Finale, The Lyric

Mon: 9 Apr: (Public Holiday)

Day:

Free time
11 am: Winner's Brunch (not supplied)
Some delegates to airport depending on flights.

Night:

 Free time

Tuesday: 10 Apr:  Post MGW (optional*) Cape Town excursion

8 am – 9 am: Breakfast
Winner, delegates & directors to airport to leave for home or after-event in Cape Town.

Host Hotel:  Taj Hotel (Winner & directors - complimentary incl. breakfast).

Partner Hotel: Protea Victoria Junction

* flights, accommodations, transfers, excursions, meals are all additional costs each person is responsible for himself.  The winner of MGW will have some expenses such as hotel provided for.

RULES, REGULATIONS & FREQUENTLY ASK QUESTIONS

a.       A delegate is entitled to only 1 free Finale pass for his Producer or Friend or Family.

b.        If a delegate’s family/friend/supporter wants to join MGW activities, (s)he shall be

responsible for his/her own costs (like transportation, meal etc.)

-  There will be 7 delegates plus a chaperon  sharing a villa (4 bedroom suites with receiving area and a common kitchen, living, dining area). The DELEGATES’ VILLA is strictly for DELEGATES ONLY!  Delegates are warned that due to sponsorship restraints, it is a requirement that every delegate will have to share a room, bathroom and a king bed  with another delegate or perhaps a chaparon as the hotel does not have single beds in the villas. Please be courteous to each other - you will need all the rest you can get. PLEASE remember that the accommodation is sponsored and does not entitle you to all the demands of a paying customer. We are actually there as the guests of Guvon Hotels, please be respectful and gracious.
(FRIENDS, ORGANIZERS AND EVEN OTHER DELEGATES ARE NOT ALLOWED TO ENTER IN YOUR DESIGNATED VILLA).  Please note:  Spanish speaking delegates will all be housed together to aid in common language, the chaperon is fluent in Portuguese/Spanish/English and will be your designated translator for the competition.

-  MGW’s 2012 sponsors will be available to assist with some make-up applications but you will have to provide your own product.  Hair stylists will also be available for some additional assistance as well before the and at the Grand Finale.   Remember IT IS YOUR OWN RESPONSIBILITY TO GROOM AND MAKE YOUR SELF BEAUTIFUL AND PLEASANT AT ALL TIMES SPECIALLY DURING THE GRAND FINALE NIGHT

-   You will be solely responsible for all of your personal incidental expenses such as phone calls, PAY-TV, clothes cleaning, additional food & beverage not supplied within the designated programme. The hotel will not offer credit service for any delegate, all services MUST be paid upon consumption at time of purchase.  It is recommended that you purchase some basic food items such as bottled water at the airport or in town prior to arriving to the hotel resort.  There is a full kitchen available in each Villa for your convenience that includes a refrigerator, microwave oven and cooking / eating utensils.

IMPORTANT:  Smoking is allowed only in designated areas of the hotel and the outside balconies and verandas of the rooms. Please see to it that ashtrays are requested where necessary and keep it clean. Please be considerate and respectful of  your roommate if he is a non-smoker. During the competition smoking in public view is strictly prohibited.  Additionally, we urge you if indulging in adult (alcohol) beverages, please drink responsibly.  Drinking to intoxication can spoil your future opportunities with the competition.  Use of drugs is prohibited.  Any misconduct, non-observance of rules, use of drugs or disrespectful behavior by a Delegate may result in immediate dismissal from The Mr. Gay World 2012 Competition, as determined by the Competition officials.

* Please let us know by email ASAP if you need a translator. (Only if you really need it!)

South African Law

While you are traveling in South Africa you are subject to its laws even if you are a foreign national. Foreign laws and legal systems can be vastly different than your own. If you violate South Africa’s laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in South Africa are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.  Drinking in public is not allowed (outside of designated bar and restaurant areas), drinks are not allowed to be taken already opened out of such areas. Generally strict anti-smoking laws are in place. Smoking is only allowed in designated smoking rooms or outside public areas where there is no roof cover.  Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime, prosecutable in South Africa and other foreign countries.

Be Alert - Common Sense

Like in most big cities around the world - do not leave your belongings unattended.  Ever.  Keep your passport and credit cards on your person in a strong, durable bag.  It is also recommended to insure valuables and to plastic-wrap your luggage at your airport of departure, or if not available, bind it with a strap and good locks.

We will at all times travel in a very large group and your safety is our concern and will at all times be our first priority - but DO NOT under any circumstance:

•           wonder out of the hotel area alone or at night;  ONLY travel with your host(s) and in groups

•           never take a random taxi;  ONLY take a minibus taxi recommended by your host(s) - your transport is at all times looked after by MGW

•           there will be shopping opportunities throughout the program always be aware of your surrounds and minimize yourself in becoming a target.  Please beware of people begging and do not openly display jewellry or camera equipment more than necessary when out shopping;

•           at informal markets, haggling is allowed but after the third no, no normally means just that - no.

•           tips are only given to bar and waiter personnel, and those that carry baggage around - at 10% of the tab or a R1 or R2 coin for baggage handlers. You do not tip in any normal shop or service station.

Language & Culture

South Africa is a friendly country, but like in most others, you do not want to draw unnecessary police attention to yourself. Although legal, gays are tolerated rather than accepted, so do not be provocative with overt public displays of attention e.g. French kissing openly in public - it is also frowned upon for straight people. The general ideology of South Africans are conservative, as opposed to having a liberal constitution. In black African culture, mostly in the rural areas, it is rude for a subordinate to look a person of a higher status directly into the eyes - if someone greets you and looks down, it is a sign of respect and not of being dishonest or unfriendly. It is also expected in indigenous culture for a man to walk in front of a woman and not the other way around - the reasoning in traditional Africa being that the male must confront danger ahead and not the woman. A handshake can also result in the person taking your hand in his and doing all sorts of signs with it - do not be taken aback - smile and try to mimic the signs! :-) . If a person gives you change or gives you anything back, they will cup their one hand underneath the wrist of the hand giving you the article - it is a sign of respect and to say thank you without the words being spoken.

South Africa has eleven official languages and up to 27 different cultural groupings, depending on how you distinguish it. You will learn more about these cultures and the wildlife and animals of Africa on our visits. Pay attention - especially in the written exam, over and above LGBTI general knowledge, you will also have to answer questions about what you have learned in the wild or "veld" (pronounced as an "f" in "field"). English is spoken everywhere and you will get along in it just fine.

For the Spanish and Portuguese speaking delegates, there will be a translator at hand at all times - please ask or put your hand up if you do not understand or if it is going to quick for you.

 Afrikaans, Sepedi (aka Sotho) which is the language of the Pedi people, and Zulu is also spoken widely. The black African languages, importantly, are divided into two main groups: the Nguni speakers (Xhosa, Zulu, Swazi etc.) and the Sotho or Pedi group (South Sotho, Northern Sotho, Tshwana etc.) - with the exception of one tribe - the Venda in northern Limpopo province which is a language grouping all on its own, believed to be descendant from the Congo during medieval times. All African tribes have distinct languages and culture. The Afrikaans-speaking people - of all races, but mostly white and so-called coloured (mixed race) are just as proud of their heritage and unique language and are sometimes referred to as "the white tribe of Africa". Afrikaans is about 60% - 70% derived from 17th century Dutch, but the rest being derived from Malay, Khoisan (aka Bushmen, but not preferred), German, French, English and African languages. It is the youngest of the recognised West Germanic languages becoming a distinct written language in the late 19th century and an official language with English in 1925 and the third most-spoken language after Zulu and Xhosa. In 1994, with the end of Apartheid and the advent of equality and the new constitution, nine African languages became official languages.

 Most of the people you meet in South Africa speak more than one language, some as many as five or more languages. English is NOT the primary mother tongue of most people in South Africa, it is spoken as the second language (common language) or lingua franca by the vast majority of South Africans. 

 As opposed to language groups, there are also four main population groups on which the previous regime based its Apartheid segregationist policies - being white (European descendants mainly), coloured (Khoi, San aka Bushmen - not preferred or PC - and mixed race), black Africans (aka indigenous peoples) and Indian (descendants from Indian labourers). Although all now equal before the law, the current government still distinguish these population groups due to affirmative action, black economic empowerment (BEE) and other policies.

You will learn more about African culture at Lesedi. If you want, you may also read further here: http://www.southafrica.info/about/people/language.htm 

Some common phrases

1. Good day! or Hi! -  Afrikaans: Hallo! or Goeie dag! (guttural "g"); Zulu: Sawubona! (to a person) Sanibona! (to persons); Pedi:  Dumela! (pronounced "Du-meh-lah")

 2. How are you? - Afr.: Hoe gaan dit? (Hu ggaan det?); Zulu:  Unjani?; Pedi: O kae? (singular) Le kae? (plural) (pronounced "U kye" and "Li kye").

 3. I'm fine thanks! - Afr: Goed, dankie!; Zulu: Ngikhona, ngiyabonga!; Pedi: Ke gona. (pronounced "Ki ghona" - guttural "g", "o" as in "fort" and "a" as in "sun").

4. Thank you very much - Afr: Baie dankie (pronounced "buy-a dunkey"); Zulu: Ngiyabonga (kakhulu)!; Pedi:  ke a leboga ("ki ah lie-bo-gha" guttural "g", "o" as in "fort" and "a" as in "sun").

Please note: in Afrikaans and African languages, an "a" is pronounced "ah" like in "sun" and "o" is NOT pronounced "ow" but short like in well, "short", "port", "fort".

For the Spanish and Portuguese speakers, there will be a translator at hand at all times - please ask or put your hand up if you do not understand or if it is going to quick for you.

GAY OR LGBTI HISTORY

South Africa's new final constitution was adopted in 1996 and was the first in the world to outlaw officially discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. Gay marriage became legal in 2006 as ordered by the Constitutional Court after protracted legal battles.  Discrimination against LGBTI people are forbidden, although widespread acceptance is yet to happen.

Baggage

You will be personally responsible for any overweight charges you incur en route to or from the competition. We recommend that you do not bring valuables. Please do not pack any documents necessary for registration in your suitcase, bring it on board in your hand luggage.  Please check with your airline as to how many bags you are allowed and what the weight restrictions are.  Remember to pack light, pack smart and arrive to your airport well ahead of time with all your documentation, including South African Visa (if applicable) with your handheld luggage.  For more information contact your local travel agent or government office.

You need to pack an overnight bag for Wed. 4 Apr for one night for dinner (casual, with light jacket or pull-over (jersey as it is called in South Africa), and for the next day's excursion (very casual - e.g. 3 quarter pants, T-Shirt and sandals or flip flops, sunglasses, sunscreen and camera equipment) as well as a toiletries.

Arrival & Registration

Someone from the MGW organization will pick you up from the airport. Look out for the MGW logo and MGW personnel. Do not rush around the airport - stay in the arrivals hall until someone finds you.  Joburg Tourism offered to put a desk at the arrivals hall - look out for that if you do not see a MGW logo.  Please try and buy a local sim card and store this number - 0833479570 - it is John O'Neil's, the Director of Logistics and call him if necessary.

 You will be taken to the hotel and your room if you arrive on the 3rd Tuesday, or early Wed., but late arrivals (near noon)  will be taken to a separate room where all main baggage will be stored as well as extras e.g. national costume gadgets, which will be taken to the room by hotel staff if time is of the essence. Remember - we leave at strictly 2 pm after the press conference on Wed.

If you are unsure of ANYTHING ask your supervisor or for general delegate enquiries Coenie (0837329478), and for logistics and sponsors, ask John (0833479570).  At the hotel, when it is time for registration and hotel check-in your patience and co-operation will be appreciated. At check-in you will be asked to show your passport and valid travel insurance.

Currency (as of March 2012)

1 US$ = 7 ZAR (South African Rand)
1 EURO = 10 ZAR (South African Rand)

Electricity

South Africa uses 220Volts, 50Hz and uses an “M” Type plug found only in Hong Kong, South Africa.  Some adaptors maybe available at the host hotel. 

If you win

If you are selected Mr. Gay World 2012 there will be photos, interviews and a brief press conference immediately following the contest.

You will be under contract of Mr. Gay World Organization, and therefore required to participate in these.  Please refer to page 32 for details on the expectations of the title-holder.

You may return to normal life after the competition is over, but any requests for personal appearances by you as Mr. Gay World 2012 must be coordinated through the Mr. Gay World Organization.

BUT FIRST....

MGW12 Awards

There are several categories to win.

Mr. Congeniality

Voted by your fellow Delegates. Treat the guys like you want them to treat you.

People’s Choice Award

Voted by the public online. Make sure to send us good photos and put an effort into your official registration form.

SPONSORS AWARDS
FITNESS CHALLENGE WINNER

You will get info on this challenge once you are in Johannesburg.

MR. PHOTOGENIC

Look your best and act your best during the photo session.

BEST IN NATIONAL COSTUME

BEST IN SWIM WEAR

A nice body is one thing, great attitude and showmanship helps a lot as well!

Winner of the Outreach Programme:  Mr. College SA World

The delegate best represents the gift of being a good humanitarian

The interview

Be prepared, dress to the occasion and be yourself! The judges are your friends!

Administration points

You all have the points when you start the week, show up in time, pay attention and do you your best and you will keep all the points for the final countdown.

The Personal Interview

The Personal Interview will be held on Friday, April 6, 2012 with a preliminary panel of judges, gives you the opportunity to talk personally with the judges.

The interview is your chance to show them your “inner beauty” and character – all those qualities you wish to charm the jury with. Think of this as a job interview and dress accordingly and make sure you leave the judges with confidence that they should pick you as Mr. Gay World 2012.

Sometimes you have to undergo interviews and they can seem frightening and make you nervous. Here are a few reminders that hopefully will make you more confident:

Relax! These judges want to see you to succeed. They are looking for your best attributes and what makes you stand out from all the other delegates.  They want you to be super! That means being a genuine, healthy, and sane person they would want to work with.

Be yourself, if time permits, ask one of the judges a question about them. Everyone loves to talk about themselves. Don’t be too pushy or too eager.

Be honest. These judges are experienced people and will see right through you if you lie.
Try to “shine” and be welcoming of their questions and smile and have fun with them. That’s what this personal interview is all about.

Present yourself. Even if the judges know something about you, present yourself as you meet the jury, tell them your name, your age and what country you represent - and if you feel for it, tell them your profession/what you study.

Sample Interview Questions

Here are some questions which you should try to answer by writing the answers down. That way you will be prepared and remember your own answers better. Be specific, but not too brief. Answer in full sentences. If you do not speak English answer them in your own language. These questions will be a good tool in training you to answer most questions thrown at you.

* Do you have any special skills?
* What would you like to change about yourself and why?
* What responsibilities have you had up until now?
* What are your best qualities?
* Name a role from a movie or a TV-series that you identify with and why?
* How would your best friend describe you in 5 words?
* What qualities should a good friend possess?
* What historic figure do you admire and why?
* What person or figure alive today, do you admire and why?
* Personal objectives: Where are you in a (1) year from now? Two years? 10 years? * If you could give one million Euros to charity, what would you choose and why?

* You represent your native country abroad at a function. You have one minute to “sell” your country. (Time yourself! – Did you remember to mention all the things you think it is important that we know about your country?

* Tell us about your favorite childhood memory...

* If you could meet the President or Prime Minister of your country, what would you ask them and why?

* And if you were President or Prime Minister of your country for a day, what would you like to see changed?

* What qualities about yourself are you the most proud of, and what would you like to improve? (Be honest!)

* How can you as a young gay man of today be the best role model for other young gay men of tomorrow?

* What is needed to become a successful model, actor, lawyer, politician, athlete or Mr. Gay World 2012?

* Do we do enough for our elderly in our society?

* We all agree that the use of drugs are a growing problem. What do you think should be done to promote a better and healthier way of life?

* Everyone think sexual harassment is wrong, but sometimes in court it is difficult to define the fine line of what sexual harassment is? How would you define it?

* We hear about violence in the media every day. We see violence on TV, in the movies, in video games. Some suggest that this give kids ideas on how to use violence. What is your opinion about this issue?

* Certain people have plastic surgery done to improve their appearance. Would you consider having plastic surgery done in the future? Why? / Why not?

* Should an athlete suspected of using drugs be allowed to represent his or her country at a sports event?

* There are people in our lives that touch us deeply. Who would you say has touched you the most, in your life?

* Do you feel there are more child abuse cases today, or do you see the Medias’ focus on the issue, and it being the reason for us hearing more about it?

* Do we have true racial problems today, and if so, what can be done to prevent it?

* If you were offered drugs at a club, how would you respond?
* Is there homophobia in your country – if yes, can you give us an example?

These questions are only designed for you to be able to articulate your thoughts freely and easy, and some of the questions can be a bit provoking.

Your job is to answer them in a clear, articulate and concise manner.  You could be the next Mr. Gay World - the global ambassador for the queer community.  Show us your knowledge and confidence.  Practice with your family and friends, the more you practice the better and more prepared you will be competing on the world stage.  Reminder, these are only training questions for your consideration. You need not send us your written answers, but they should be a helpful tool for you to prepare for the contest and for you to be the best representative for your country.

Press / Media

Many reporters and photographers representing the local, national and international media will be covering the competition. If you are being interviewed; THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK. If a question is asked and you would prefer not to answer it – say so. No one expects you to respond to questions which make you uncomfortable or which may be personal, or controversial in nature. Also, feel free to ask a reporter to repeat or clarify a question you do not understand. No one will think less of you, and you just may save yourself from an embarrassing response.
Mr. Gay World Prizes

Mr. Gay World is proud to offer the following prizes through the generous support and contributions from its sponsors, donors and partners.  All prizes must be accepted as is and have no cash value.  Mr. Gay World reserves the right to change, substitute , and/or revoke prizing at any time.  Some restrictions may apply.

Mr. Gay World 2012 Winner will receive the following:

•          Sterling Silver Mr. Gay World Cup, Mr. Gay World 2012 Sash

•          Approximate US$25,000 travel allowance to visit the five continents during his term as Mr. Gay World 2012.  Each of the trips will include round-trip economy airfare, accommodation to a maximum of five nights, some sponsored meals, some sponsored attractions, and a US$100 per diem/day for miscellaneous expenses.

•          Club Travel Cape Quarter will provide the title-holder a trip for two from the title-holder’s home country back to South Africa for a one week holiday including round trip economy airfare and hotel.  In the event the winner is from South Africa, the winner will be provide a holiday overseas instead.

•          One year supply of Bone Wear swimwear and underwear

•          Custom jewellery from designer Chris Winspear

•          MichaelGamePlan cosmetics

•          Spartacus Travel Guide

•          Clothes from Old Favourite

•          Tuition for correspondent study from College South Africa

•          Four-Night stay at the Taj hotel in Cape Town immediately following the Mr. Gay World 2012 Grand Finale

•          And more...

First Runner Up thru to Fourth Runner Up

The top five finalist of Mr. Gay World 2012 will also receive the following prizes:

•          Jewellery from designer Chris Winspear

•          MichaelGamePlan cosmetics

•          Spartacus travel guides

•          clothes from Old Favourite

•          Tuition for correspondent study course from College South Africa

•          and more...

_RELEASE OF LIABILITY, WAIVER OF CLAIMS, ASSUMPTION OF RISKS AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT BY SIGNING THIS DOCUMENT YOU WILL WAIVE CERTAIN LEGAL RIGHTS, INCLUDING THE RIGHT TO SUE.

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY!

In consideration for being granted membership in and for allowing me to participate in any or all events and related activities of Mr. Gay World  I hereby warrant and agree that:

1.           I am familiar with and accept that there is always the risk of serious injury and death resulting from participation in any organized recreational activity particularly those involving modelling, participation in fashion show(s), water sports, adventure races, safari, skiing, snowmobiling and like activities offered as part of the Mr. Gay World , and

2.           I have satisfied myself, and believe, that I am physically, emotionally and mentally able to participate in this programme, and that my equipment, if applicable, is appropriate for use in this programme; and

3.           I understand that all applicable rules for participation must be followed and that at all times the sole responsibility for personal safety remains with me; and

4.           I will immediately remove myself from participation, and notify the nearest official, if at any time I sense or observe any unusual hazard or unsafe condition or if I feel that I  have experienced any deterioration in my physical, emotional or mental fitness, or that of my equipment, or exceeded my comfort level, for continued participation in any event or related activity.

I UNDERSTAND AND AGREE, ON BEHALF OF MYSELF, MY  HEIRS, ASSIGNS, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES AND NEXT OF KIN  THAT MY EXECUTION OF THIS DOCUMENT CONSTITUTES:

1.           AN UNQUALIFIED ASSUMPTION  BY ME OF ALL RISKS associated with my participation in the any or all of the events and activities of Mr. Gay World  even if arising from the negligence or gross negligence, including any compounding or aggravation of injuries caused by negligent rescue operations or procedures, of Mr. Gay World , any event organizer, event venue and any and all persons associated therewith or participating therein in any capacity; or in transportation to and from such events and activities, and

2.           A FULL AND FINAL RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY AND ALL CLAIMS that I have, or may in the future have, against the Mr. Gay World, Mr. Gay South Africa, Alpenglow Productions Corporation, GayWhistler.com, all associated sponsors and partners, and their respective directors, officers, employees, coaches, leaders, contractors, agents and representatives, advertisers, volunteers, others participating in any capacity, (all of whom are collectively referred to as “the Releasees”) from any and all liability for any loss, damage, injury or expense that I may suffer as a result of my use of or my presence at event facilities, or my participation in any part of, or presence at, any or all of the events and related activities of the Releasees due to any cause whatsoever, INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE, GROSS NEGLIGENCE, BREACH OF CONTRACT, OR BREACH OF ANY STATUTORY OR OTHER DUTY OF CARE, INCLUDING ANY DUTY OF CARE OWED UNDER THE RELEVANT OCCUPIERS LIABILITY ACT ON THE PART OF THE RELEASEES.

3.           AN AGREEMENT NOT TO SUE THE RELEASEES for any loss, injury, costs or damages of any form or type, howsoever caused or arising, and whether directly or indirectly, from my participation in any aspect of the said events and related activities; and

4.           AN AGREEMENT TO INDEMNIFY, and to SAVE and HOLD HARMLESS the RELEASEES, and each of them, from any litigation expense, legal fees, liability, damage, award or cost, of any form or type whatsoever, they may incur due to any claim made against them or any one of them whether the claim is based on the negligence or the gross negligence of the Releasees or otherwise.

5.           an agreement that this document be governed by the laws, and in the courts of South Africa.

I HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THIS AGREEMENT AND I AM AWARE THAT BY SIGNING THIS AGREEMENT I AM WAIVING CERTAIN SUBSTANTIAL LEGAL RIGHTS WHICH I AND MY HEIRS, NEXT OF KIN, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS AND ASSIGNS MAY HAVE AGAINST THE RELEASEES.

I SIGN THIS DOCUMENT VOLUNTARILY AND WITHOUT INDUCEMENT this           __ day of  ______________,  2012 at  Johannesburg, South Africa.

Signature of Participant		Printed name of Participant | Country
Signature of Witness		Printed name of Witness

Simplified Adult Release

For valuable consideration received, I hereby grant to Mr. Gay World, Mr. Gay South Africa, Tourism South Africa, Tourism Belgium, WorldOutgames 2013, Alpenglow Productions Corporation, their representatives and agents the absolute and irrevocable right and unrestricted permission in respect of photographic images and/or moving pictures that (s)he had taken of me individually or in which I may be included with others, to copyright the same, in their own name or otherwise, to use, reuse, publish, edit and republish the same in whole or in part, for illustration, promotion, art, editorial, advertising, and trade or any other purpose whatsoever without restriction as to the alteration; and to use my name in connection therewith it (s)he so chooses.

I hereby release and discharge Photographer and Associates from any and all claims and demands arising out of or in connection with the use of these photographs, including without limitations any and all claims for libel or invasion of privacy.

This authorization and release shall also inure to the benefit of the heirs, legal representatives, licensees, and assigns of Mr. Gay World, Mr. Gay South Africa, Alpenglow Productions Corporation, as well as their person(s), representatives and agents.

I am of full legal* age (18+) and have the right to contract in my own name.  I have read the foregoing and fully understand the contents thereof.  This release shall be binding upon me and my heirs, legal representatives, and assigns.

Print Full Legal Name	Date of Birth	Country

Address	City	email

Signature of  Model	Today’s Date	Signature of Witness

* must be born on or before April 4th, 1994 to qualify_Mr. Gay World Expectations

If you are chosen by the panel of judges to represent the queer community for the next year (April 8, 2012 thru to August 8, 2013, herein referred to as “term”) as Mr. Gay World 2012 (herein referred to as “title-holder”), the Mr. Gay World (MGW) organisation (herein referred to as “organisation”) has the following expectations of the title-holder:

- Title-holder may need to relinquish his title of Mr. Gay “Country” in the event of holding two such titles is in conflict of fulfilling the title-holder’s roles and responsibilities to the organisation.

- Organisation is your exclusive agent for the next term.  You will report to the Vice President of Operations, Dean Nelson, for all speaking, interviews, modeling,  and public and/or private appearance opportunities as title-holder.  The organisation will approve all opportunities prior to engagement upon mutual consent from the title-holder.  Title-holder must follow and execute legitimate instructions from the organisation.  The title-holder’s Regional Director maybe called upon to assist the organisation where needed.

- Sponsorship:  Title-holder is obligated to use and promote various sponsor products and services for his term.  Contact with any sponsor is only permitted upon express written authorization and/or direction from the organisation.  Title-holder does not have the authorization to engage new or existing sponsors, however any new sponsorship leads and/or opportunities must be forwarded to the organisation for review and action. 

- Social Networks:  As title-holder it is your responsibility to engage various social media including but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, You Tube, blog, and LinkedIn in a professional and  respectable behaviour at all times.   Social Media sites must be engaged at minimum of three times per week during his term.

- Prizing:  All prizes, in-kind gifts of services and/or products must be accepted as is.  Prizes have no cash value, subject to change and/or replacement at time of awarding such prize(s). 

- Compensation:  The title-holder acknowledges and understands fully that this is a volunteer role.  The delegate will always be given the choice to accept or decline opportunities for speaking, modeling, public appearances, etc. with the full understanding that any loss wages in accepting the opportunity will not be compensated.  The organisation and/or sponsor will provide economy class airfare, accommodation, some meals plus a travel per diem of US$100/day cash to be used by the delegate at the host destination.  Some restrictions may apply, all travel and expectations of the event as to what is included will be presented at time of offering. 

- The title-holder is encouraged to help to engagement in growing and mentoring other destinations in running their own Mr. Gay “Country” competitions.  Title-holder may work directly with his Regional Director in local outreach and mentorship.

The organisers will not be held responsible for any loss or damage whatsoever related to the competition before or after the competition or for whatever reason. Entrants enter the competition wholly at own risk;  The organisation reserve the right to cancel this agreement and remove the title-holder should he bring the organisation into disrepute in whatever way, refuses to carry out instructions or do not abide by the rules, stated here and/or stated during and after the competition.

__________________

Title-holder Signature

_Mr. Gay World Exclusive Contract - Title Winner

Declaration and Indemnification:

I, __________________,  declare that the information I have provided herein is true and correct in every aspect.  I agree that the rules, terms and conditions  above are binding on me in the participation and executing of my duties as the winner and title-holder of Mr Gay World 2012 (named "the organisation" hereafter).

I agree to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the organisation and each of its respective shareholders, officers, directors, managers, sponsors, venues, employees and agents, from and against any and all losses, liabilities, injuries, damages, medical fees and any other costs and expenses which I may incur as a result of my participation in the organisation. I further agree that my participation in the organisation and all its activities is undertaken by myself on a purely voluntary basis and I have, in no way, been coerced to participate in such activity by any of the shareholders, officers, directors, managers, sponsors, employees and agents of the organisation and is done wholly at my own risk. I agree not to bring the pageant or festival into disrepute at risk of disqualification.  I agree that should I withdraw or be relieved of the title, I will have to return all prizes or the value thereof, as well as repay expenses incurred on my behalf as well as damages, which is agree upon to be a minimum of US $5,000 (five thousand American dollars) which is to be paid within one calendar month of me withdrawing or being relieved of the title. I hereby agree that the above is all true and correct and that I will abide by the rules of the organisation in all respects and at all times endeavour to uphold the ethos, ideals, targets, aims, mission and good name of the organisation.

Signed

______________________________         __________________________

Mr. Gay World 2012                          | Dated:        Witness                  | Dated:

mrgayworld.org

1607/ 3 Kings Cross Road | Rushcutters Bay 2011 | Sydney, New South Wales | Australia

MGW12-Delegate_Handbook (c)2012

mrgayworld.org

1607/ 3 Kings Cross Road | Rushcutters Bay 2011 | Sydney, New South Wales | Australia

MGW12-Delegate_Handbook (c)2012  | Page 4 of 34                             

mrgayworld.org

1607/ 3 Kings Cross Road | Rushcutters Bay 2011 | Sydney, New South Wales | Australia

MGW12-Delegate_Handbook (c)2012  | Page 34 of 34                          

__________________

Title