INTERVIEW: Mr Gay Europe Michael Pereira speaks out

When Michael Pereira stepped onto the stage at the Mr Gay Europe final, he wasn’t just chasing a title - he was reclaiming a voice that had once been silenced. Now crowned winner, the Swiss advocate is using his platform to champion LGBTQ+ youth across Europe, with a message rooted in empathy, resilience and action.

In this exclusive interview, Michael opens up about his personal journey, the inspiration behind his initiative Safe to Grow, and what he hopes to achieve during his reign.

Michael, congratulations on your win! What inspired you to enter Mr Gay Europe in the first place?

Thank you so much! I entered Mr Gay Europe because I wanted to use my voice; not just for myself, but for all the queer children and teens out there who are struggling. I saw the competition as a platform to amplify important issues and to show that visibility and action can go hand in hand.

From Alpine Isolation to European Advocacy

You’ve spoken openly about your childhood and personal challenges. How have those experiences shaped your advocacy work today?

Growing up in a small alpine village (Zermatt), I was bullied a lot at school. I often felt alone and misunderstood and had no one to look up to. I let others control my life, and it took me years to accept my sexual orientation and be fully myself.

Those moments stayed with me and made me realise how crucial it is for every queer child to feel seen, protected and loved. It is so important to feel that we too belong here. My own story fuels my mission today: I want to offer the support and create the safe spaces I needed back then.

"I wanted to use my voice; not just for myself, but for all the queer children and teens out there who are struggling."

Could you tell us more about your initiative, Safe to Grow? What are its main goals and who is it aimed at?

Safe to Grow is my passion project. Its main goal is to create safer environments for LGBTQ+ children, starting with healthcare but also including schools and families. It is about giving kids the chance to grow up proud, safe and mentally healthy. Safe to Grow is not just an awareness campaign. It is a call to action focused on prevention, education and real support.

What kind of support do you think is most urgently needed for queer children and young people in Switzerland and beyond?

First, we need understanding and education, especially among parents, teachers and healthcare professionals who interact with these children and young people the most. We must address bullying, invisibility and stigma. For that we need accessible resources. Many kids are still left alone with their fears. Everything starts with listening and taking their reality seriously.

"One of the biggest misconceptions is that being LGBTQ+ is still seen as a phase or something that can be fixed."

What was the most memorable moment for you during the Mr Gay Europe competition?

There were so many. But standing on that stage during the final moments, feeling my inner child heal through that sense of pride and belonging, is something I will carry with me forever. It reminded me that every struggle can lead to something powerful.

How did you prepare for the event, both mentally and physically?

Mentally, I focused on my message and stayed connected to why and for whom I was doing this. I worked on my presentation, my project and kept engaging with people who inspire me. Physically, I maintained my training routine but also made sure to rest and recharge. Finding the right balance was essential.

A Reign of Purpose

What do you hope to achieve during your reign as Mr Gay Europe?

I want to give Safe to Grow a European reach, build partnerships and push for real change in how we care for queer youth. I also hope to inspire other young LGBTQ+ people to dream big, take up space and know they are never alone. I want to help make Europe more colourful.

In your view, what are the biggest misconceptions people still have about the LGBTQ+ community?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that being LGBTQ+ is still seen as a phase or something that can be fixed. Another is the belief that our fight for equality is already over, even though many queer people still face daily discrimination. Visibility is not enough. We also need action and policy changes.

The Power of Representation

How do you see the role of public figures like yourself in shaping conversations around identity and inclusion?

I believe we have a responsibility to be visible and vocal. Public figures can open doors, challenge stereotypes and make it easier for others to be their true selves. It is not about being perfect. It is about showing up and standing up so that others feel safe to do the same.

What advice would you give to young queer individuals who may be struggling to find their place in the world?

Please remember that you are not alone and that your story matters. Find your safe space, your trusted person and speak your truth when you are ready. Never forget that you have the right to exist exactly as you are. The world needs you, and you are worthy of love and pride. Always.