With preparations well under way for the 2014 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, organisers have announced the appointment of Courtney Act – the nom de plume of gender illusionist Shane Jenek – as the inaugural Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Ambassador.
The honorary title has been bestowed on Shane (and Courtney) by the Board of SGLMG in recognition of his ongoing commitment and support to SGLMG and its values and purpose: To inspire the world to love each other through the power and beauty of diversity.
The Ambassadorship is intended to provide a positive role model for LGBTQI young people, to inspire them to strive to achieve their goals whilst remaining true to, and proud of, their identity and individuality.
Mardi Gras CEO Michael Rolik said “We’re so excited to announce that Shane will be our first Mardi Gras Ambassador, helping us to communicate our message of infinite love around the globe.”
“Shane is a powerful role model for young LGBTQI people, a shining example of what can be achieved by staying true to yourself and being proud of your individuality.”
Courtney is no stranger to the Mardi Gras, and will be bringing her hit cabaret show Boys Like Me to Sydney Theatre on Tuesday 25th February, direct from sold out seasons in NYC and Los Angeles.
Her successes overseas have also catapulted her onto the small screen, recently being announced as one of the competitors in Season 6 of Ru Paul’s Drag Race.
On becoming Mardi Gras first official Ambassador Jenek said, “Sydney during Mardi Gras is my favourite place and time on the planet. To be announced as the official ambassador is really exciting.”
“Living overseas the past few years has ignited my patriotism and where ever I go my accent reveals my homeland. It always sparks conversations about what a magical country Australia is and about of one of the greatest GLBT Pride festivals in the world, the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras.”
As a Mardi Gras Ambassador, Shane will represent SGLMG at LGBTQI community and civic events such as Pride festivals around the world, as well as feature in an international promotional campaign for Sydney’s world renowned Mardi Gras festival.
For more information, visit: www.mardigras.org.au for details.
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