adsf

Proud to be average

He ‘s the first to get Iceland into the top ten finals in Mr. Gay World. And now he has a new album coming out next year. We spoke to Troy Michael Jónsson about his music career, the decision to move to Iceland, his passionate battle for lgbt rights and the pressure of taking part in a contest like Mr. Gay World 2014.

So, Troy, why don’t you start by telling us a little bit about yourself.
“Well, I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA. Then I moved to New York for a reality show and stayed there for three years working on my music career, performing at Gay Pride Parades all over the east coast. After appearing on TV shows like “The Next American Gay” (which had a successful air in 6 countries on the OutTV Network) and “Snooki & JWoww” (a hit show on MTV) I guess I started to feel that I needed a change in my life, a break from all the craziness in New York. So I moved with my other half to Iceland in 2013. I had been here a couple of times before and immediately fell in love with the country on my first visit. What fascinates me about Iceland is how beautiful everything is. There’s also no military. So everybody can live in peace without worry. And for those reasons and more Iceland is a country which I now proudly call home.”

And then you ended up participating on Iceland’s behalf in Mr. Gay World. Why?
“Firstly, I’ve done a few competitions before, representing my home state Pennsylvania in the States and also the US in a different competition, so I’m experienced in that way. But it’s also due to my strong background in politics; I have a degree in Political Science, I’ve campaigned for politicians, like Senator Joe Sestak and President Barack Obama, and I’ve publicly spoken out for gay rights for many years. That combined with an endless desire to succeed always makes me interested in competing for an opportunity to be a worldwide ambassador for gay rights. Marriage equality, the ability to donate blood, suicide prevention – equality for gays in all aspects is basically at the top of my list. That’s what I strive for. My whole life has been based on trying to help others in any way possible. Especially when homosexuality is involved.”

Brains before beauty

The contest is described as a competition for gay and human rights. But isn’t it really just a standard beauty pageant?
“You know, when you think of the word “pageant,” its mainly about beauty. However, not in this case. During this competition we had to pass a written exam showing knowledge of gay rights and a brutal “one minute challenge” in which a journalist grilled us with controversial questions. If we failed we had absolutely no chance of winning. Of course appearance plays a part of it. But it’s not the main part. In this competition it’s brains before beauty.”

So what were the judges looking for?

adsf
Troy chose to wear an interpretation of Bardarbunga volcano as the national costume. He started smoking from his mouth as he walked on stage and “erupted” in the end. The costume was designed by Ólafur Helgi a.k.a. Starina.

“A well spoken person who can be the ambassador for their brand and promote what the Mr. Gay World Organization stands for. There were a series of challenges: a cooking challenge, an art challenge, one minute challenge, a private interview, photo shoot challenge and showing off a national costume, formal wear, swim wear and a final question on stage.”

What did you bring to the table?
“I don’t think anyone expected me to do well because Iceland has never been into the top ten. Also because I wasn’t anywhere near in the good shape as some of the other contestants. However, I was confident that I would storm Iceland into the top ten for the first time. You see, I’m very well spoken and comfortable with myself. And even if I wasn’t the most fit, my confidence bypasses what any fitness level can reach. I’m proud of being average. I’m not perfect and I never want to be.  I just want to be me. I had no tricks. I just went in there, relaxed and remained myself. I never tried to be someone else. Stayed myself the whole time. That’s how I ended up doing so well.”

“I don’t think anyone expected me to do well because Iceland has never been into the top ten. However, I was confident that I would storm Iceland into the top ten.”

Tell us about the preparation.
“It was insane. I had little sleep due to an intense workout routine, mixing up my workouts with Crossfit and Strength Training and swimming every morning. And in between I met had a unique opportunity to meet with great activists, such as the Mayor of Reykjavik, Dagur B. Eggertsson, and the former Prime Minister, Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir.”

Any drama behind the scenes?
“There wasn’t really any drama amongst the contestants. But, we were ALL a bit shocked that Mr. India did not make the top 5. Theres something magical about him. His presence just takes you to a new place of happiness after you’ve been around him for 15 minutes. I couldn’t be any happier that he became part of my life. I’m not taking away from the others and I congratulate the Winner and the Top 5. But it’s clearly obvious that Sushant, Mr. India, was the winner. He won the art challenge, the Peoples Choice Award, was chosen Mr. Congeniality and part of the team which won the sports challenge. But he didn’t make it to the top 5? A bit strange to me.”

adsf
Working out before a photo shoot.

Apart from snatching the Mr. sports prize, what did you get out of the contest?
“I wanted people to realize what I’m capable of and that I have a big heart. I never focus on “me”. I live my life fighting for equality, focusing on how I can help others.”

But you lost your job because of Mr. Gay World, right?
“That’s correct. I needed a 2 extra days off work to escape the possible volcanic eruption in case it would prevent me from flying abroad. However, I was sent a TEXT message from my boss at Icelandair Hotels Keflavík telling me not to come back to work if I took those extra days off. Given the standard of Icelandair Hotels I thought it was extremely unprofessional. It was also shocking as I never missed a day in work and covered everyone’s shifts if asked, and the manager later told me this had nothing to do with my performance, I was a great employee. All the same I was told to choose between the two. So I chose the competition because it gave me the opportunity to capture a world title and become a worldwide ambassador for gay rights. I would choose equality, human rights, any day over my job, no matter what it is. I still respect Icelandair as a whole, but I cannot support the unprofessional branch in Keflavík.”

Would love to work with Paul Oscar

After digging a bit we found out that you’re one busy bee.
Smiles. “I have so many things planned. For now, I’ve taken on a new platform to be able to get gays to donate blood, as it’s still a worldwide issue. I plan to work with various organizations and speak out at events throughout the world on behalf of the gay community to get gays in line for blood drives.”

adsf
Having fun with photographer Adam Bouska, from NOH8 the world’s largest marriage equality campaign.

A little bird told us you’re also working on a new album.
“My music career is about to take off with the release of my very first album, a hip hop album, in 2015. With it I want to spread the message of hope by highlighting my own triumphs and tribulations. I collaborated with a lot of great people on the album. It’s all still a big hush, but I can name R&B Singer NuNu and music producer and rap artist Neptune, both stationed out of Pittsburgh PA.”

On that note, how do you find the Icelandic music scene?
“I would love to collaborate with Paul Oscar and Steinar. I’ve performed with Steinar before and he truly is talented. The goes same for Paul Oscar. I love him. It would be a blast to work with him. To bring a twist to his style, for example by adding a rap verse from me.”

And then there’s a Oprah Winfrey project.
“Yes, I’ve just finalized a project called “The Oprah Effect” which highlights the success story of Oprah Winfrey. It’s an idea for a television series I’m going to pitch to the OWN Oprah Winfrey Network. And if it becomes a reality I’m hoping it will help influence the lives of many. Especially those in need. Other than that I can’t tell you much about it – at least not at this stage.” Smiles mysteriously.

But why Oprah, are you a fan?
“We’ve faced very similar struggles in life, which I’m not ready to talk about. Not yet. And because of that I proudly have her birthday tattooed across my ribcage. Some people think it’s crazy and don’t understand my admiration for her. But I just find her so inspiring.”

Seems like 2015 is going to be a very exciting year for you.
“With my upcoming album and possible return to television I believe my future is bright. My ideas keep growing as life goes on. My desire for success is never-ending. So 2015 is it!”

adsf
Troy and friends at Mr. Gay World 2014. From left: Sushant (mr. India), Fabrice (mr. Germany), Peter (mr. Finland), Troy and Werner (mr. South Africa).

Main photo: Sushant, Mr. India, left with Troy. All photos: Courtesy of Troy Michael.

Click here to see the Mr. Gay World 2014. To see Troy on stage fast forward to 09:50.

For more photos from Mr. Gay World 2014, click here.

Blush

    Blush was founded in 2011 when it started selling high quality sex products. The goal from the beginning was to change the market and take the discussion about sex products to a higher level. Today Blush provides professional services in a pleasant environment that fulfills different needs, both for individuals and couples. Blush respects diversity and wants to set a good example in all of its messaging to target audiences. Sexual health and equality in sex is important and Blush wants to focus on those issues through education and open discussion. Blush works in a socially responsible manner for society, their customers and the environment.

    Check out Blush’s website: https://blush.is/

    Omnom Chocolate
    - award-winning chocolate maker

      Omnom Chocolate is an Icelandic craft chocolate company based in Reykjavík. We produce handcrafted chocolate from organic cacao beans sourced ethically and sustainably. We’ve developed direct relationships to create premium chocolate with fine flavor cacao beans.

      Our creative flavors are carefully crafted by meticulous chocolate makers. The cacao beans are roasted, winnowed, ground, and refined into melty-smooth chocolate.

      Omnom’s process is one of constant exploration, invention, and experimentation. If it doesn’t please us, if something isn’t absolutely delicious, there’s no reason to be doing it. So, we always start with our taste buds and follow our instincts. Our team searches for the finest ingredients in the world and new ways to improve chocolate. This obsession with knowing where our ingredients come from has led us around the corner to dairy farms in the Icelandic countryside and all the way to rainforest cacao farms of Nicaragua.

      In only a few short years, we’ve grown from our 50 sq. m. petrol station space and become an award-winning chocolate maker. Now, with our headquarters in 101 Reykjavík, our chocolate is sent out around Iceland and all over the world.

      At the end of the day, our goal is to make chocolate.

       

      Nasdaq

         

        Nasdaq (Nasdaq: NDAQ) is a global technology company serving the capital markets and other industries. Our diverse offering of data, analytics, software and services enables clients to optimize and execute their business vision with confidence.

        With over 4,300 employees in 39 offices around the world, at Nasdaq we all contribute to the success of the company and its culture, and each one of us has the ability to make a difference. When it comes to our core mission and values, we embrace the role of Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging (DIB) as a fundamental driver of our corporate growth, workplace culture and market development. We strive to create a culture that embraces the power of different perspectives—a culture where people’s unique backgrounds and different experiences helps us fuel innovation and support our clients around the world.

        Our unique position at the center of the capital markets allows us to see firsthand how these values have redefined corporate culture and success, deepening and accelerating our own commitment to champion inclusive growth and prosperity, as we strive to create more equitable opportunities to help people of all backgrounds reach their full potential. Most notably, we published our diversity statistics for the first time in 2020. These metrics serve as a quantitative assessment of where we are today and help determine what strategies we need to adopt to enhance diversity in the workplace. We recognize that we have much work to do, but we are steadfast in our commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive culture—one that reflects the communities in which we live, allows all employees to be their true, authentic selves and fosters individual growth and achievement.

        As we move forward together, we will continue advancing diverse ideas and perspectives that help fulfill the promise of a more inclusive and prosperous world. We aim to set the pace for rethinking capital markets and economies anywhere and everywhere. To learn more about the company, technology solutions and career opportunities, visit us on LinkedIn, on Twitter @Nasdaq, or at www.nasdaq.com.

        Blue Lagoon
        - One of the 25 Wonders of the World

        Named by National Geographic as one of the 25 Wonders of the World, the Blue Lagoon is a shimmering expanse of warmth, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Its unique geothermal seawater
        comes from 2.000 meters within the earth where seawater and freshwater converge in a tectonic realm of porous lava and searing heat. Propelled by extreme pressure, the water ascends to the earth’s surface, emerging enriched with silica, algae, and minerals—the elements that endow Blue Lagoon geothermal seawater with its radiant, healing properties.

        From its humble beginnings in the shadows of a geothermal power plant, Blue Lagoon has evolved into a world of wonder, now encompassing two hotels, three restaurants, three
        geothermal lagoons, a subterranean spa, a renowned line of skin care, a thriving research center, and a wealth of spa and refreshment facilities.

        Achieving harmony with the volcanic landscape, the lagoon and its surrounding architecture embody the unification of the man-made and the natural, and adhere to the highest principles of sustainability.

        The Blue Lagoon. A wonder of the world. A world of wonder.

        Landsbankinn
        - leading financial institution
        Landsbankinn

        Landsbankinn is a leading Icelandic financial institution. It offers a full range of financial services and is the market leader in the Icelandic financial service sector with the largest branch network.

        The present bank was established on 7 October 2008 but the history of its predecessor dates back to 1886. The bank is owned by the National Treasury of Iceland, which holds 98.2% of its share capital, and other shareholders who own 1.8%.

        Landsbankinn’s strategy is to provide comprehensive financial services that meet customer’s needs. It emphasizes providing exemplary service to customers, developing e-banking for their convenience, increasing the efficiency of support functions, modernizing its technology and ensuring effective utilization of its balance sheet.

        The bank’s vision is to be exemplary and its role is to be a trusted financial partner.

        Special emphasis is placed on promoting a performance-oriented culture in the bank. To follow up on the implementation of this strategy, the bank has defined key goals which are measured regularly to determine progress. These goals include, for example, customer satisfaction and loyalty, profitability, cost efficiency and the correlation between risk appetite and employee satisfaction.

        Landsbankinn wishes to lead the development of a sustainable society in Iceland by integrating economic, social and environmental concerns in its operations. The Bank aims to ensure that both its owners and society at large benefit from its activities.

        It intends to achieve this aim by building solid infrastructure and a strong team of 1.100 employees, by listening to its customers and by respecting and encouraging its employees to actively participate in their community. Landsbankinn was a founding member of Festa, a Centre for Corporate Social Responsibility, and is a member of the UN Global Compact.

        Landsbankinn has been a proud sponsor of the Reykjavik Pride since it was first celebrated in Iceland.

        Dohop
        - get inspired
        Dohop

        Dohop allows people to find the cheapest flights available with just one click. Founded in Reykjavik in 2004, it is the only Icelandic company of its kind and quickly became the go-to tool for finding cheap flights among the locals. Dohop finds the best deals among hundreds of different airlines and online travel agencies, to make sure that the user is getting the cheapest price. Dohop also offers hotel and car rental search engines, so users can make all of their travel bookings from a single website.

        Dohop‘s specialty is finding so-called “self-connect” flight options, which can save travelers money by booking a ticket through two or more different airlines. The ability to look for these self-connect option is what sets Dohop apart from its competition, as it can save people hundreds of dollars on certain routes.

        More recently, Dohop has developed a unique product called Dohop Go!, which allows users to check for the cheapest available flights from their home airport. This tool is perfect for those who are looking for travel inspiration but are not willing to overpay for their flight ticket. Dohop Go! is now available in the Dohop Flights App, both for Android and iOS, along with its traditional flight, hotel, and car search engines. “

        VSÓ Ráðgjöf

           

          VSÓ Ráðgjöf er alhliða ráðgjafar- og verkfræðifyrirtæki sem leggur áherslu á trausta og faglega þjónustu sem tryggir viðskiptavinum hagkvæmustu lausnir hverju sinni, skilar raunverulegum árangri og stuðlar að samkeppnisforskoti.  Á skrifstofum VSÓ í Reykjavík og í Noregi starfar yfir 80 manna samhentur hópur verkfræðinga og annarra tæknimenntaðra starfsmanna.

          Macland
          - for all your Apple needs
          Macland

          From starting out as a proper startup with only a good idea and the need to change things, to becoming an established company with 6 employees. Starting from scratch and expanding organically has allowed us to love our expansion and take our customers on the ride with us.

          Macland is located at Laugavegur 23 (101, Downtown Reykjavik)
          For all your Apple needs. We are here.

          Ísey skyr
          - once tasted never forgotten

          Our Story
          Once upon a time, 1,100 years ago in fact, Nordic settlers began arriving in Iceland. They brought with them the skills and knowledge for producing skyr. As time passed, the know-how and recipe for this nutritious food slowly faded out elsewhere in the Nordic region. Luckily, the Icelandic skyr-making tradition continued.

          For centuries, Icelandic skyr formed a cornerstone of the national diet, helping to keep people strong in living conditions that were often harsh. On family farms countrywide, it was the women who nurtured this dairy and passing on both the recipe and the original Icelandic skyr cultures from mother to daughter.

          Ísey skyr builds on this remarkable legacy. It was some of those very same women, the recipients of their mothers’ expertise, who, around 90 years ago, taught Icelandic dairy scientists the art of skyr-making. The production process is more high-tech these days, and the quality standards more rigorous. However, the basic recipe and the use of original cultures to ferment the skimmed milk remain the same. Protein rich, fat-free, creamy and delicious – Ísey skyr is as relevant to consumers now as it was all those centuries ago.
          This is our secret and you are in on it

          You can read more about Ísey skyr on our website.

          Contact Us


          PGlmcmFtZSBzcmM9Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmdvb2dsZS5jb20vbWFwcy9lbWJlZD9wYj0hMW0xNCExbTEyITFtMyExZDI3ODQyLjM0NzA2NDA3OTU4ITJkLTIxLjkwMDg1MDg1NzkxODQyITNkNjQuMTQxNzA3ODE2NzAyMDEhMm0zITFmMCEyZjAhM2YwITNtMiExaTEwMjQhMmk3NjghNGYxMy4xITVlMCEzbTIhMXNlbiEycyE0djE0MzMzMzc5MTUyMjYiIHdpZHRoPSIxMDAlIiBoZWlnaHQ9IjEwMCUiIGZyYW1lYm9yZGVyPSIwIiBzdHlsZT0iYm9yZGVyOjAiPjwvaWZyYW1lPg==
          Thank You. We will contact you as soon as possible.