Hi there!I'm Mr Gay Scotland 2017 and competing in the Mr Gay Europe competition in Stockholm in a couple of weeks' time - andI need your votes!!Vote here or click the "vote" button at the top of the page.You can vote every day until the end of the competition so set a reminder!Why should you vote for me?I don’t pretend that I have all the right answers but I reckon I’m a pretty good role model. I’m 39 and now of the age that I understand that so much of what happens in the world is out of our control, but what we can control is how we respond to the world.As a lawyer, I can debate and argue a case, but the legal training allows me to see and try to understand where the other person is coming from. This 360-degree view allows me to make a stronger and more thoughtful case and to persuade the other side to come to my point of view or to at least compromise with compassion and understanding.Having trained as an actor, I have a good understanding of people, their emotions and the ability to empathise. I’m also used to being on stage in front of small groups but also thousands of people.Crucially I have experience in campaigning, a lot of which I have gained over the past seven years of singing with the LGMC. Whether that’s protesting outside the Russian embassy, singing for Dolly Parton on the BBC or outside the House of Lords for Equal Marriage, singing for the Prime Minister in No 10 at an event against homophobia in Sport, performing at corporate or charity events or running a singing workshop to kids with learning difficulties. I am used to dealing and working with people from all walks of life; from Prime Ministers, Lords and Ladies, politicians and celebrities, to children and their parents including people who may or may not have met a gay person before (or known they have).I’m also just a friendly guy and believe that we should all do our best and look out for each other. I’m actually helping one guy who works near where I live and he’s unable to come out because of his family’s religious beliefs – he’s genuinely in fear for his life. We meet for coffee when he can, and I give him support, friendship and kindness.Even if I don’t win the competition, if I can help make just one person’s life or experience better then this will have been worth it.Steven xx

Voting is open!