The Queer Indigo’s Barry Brandon is more than just an advocate; he’s looking for change. His journey from personal passion to a global movement is a testament to the power of authenticity and inclusivity.
In this exclusive interview, Barry delves into the creation of his latest project, “Berlin Angels,” a celebration of queer identity and community. The film brings together a diverse group of individuals to create a powerful and inspiring story.
We explore the inspiration behind the project, the importance of queer representation, and the challenges and rewards of being a public figure advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights. Barry also shares his vision for the future of The Queer Indigo and offers advice to young people exploring their identity.
Hello Barry! Your work as The Queer Indigo has been a powerful force for positive change and representation. Can you tell us a bit about your journey as an advocate and how The Queer Indigo came to be?
Thank you! The Queer Indigo really began as a way for me to carve out a space where authenticity and self-expression could thrive without boundaries. As someone who has always been passionate about creating safer spaces, I saw a real need for a platform that not only celebrated queer identities but also encouraged others to embrace their true selves. My journey as an advocate started with this simple idea—visibility, equality, love, and pride. It’s been a wild and beautiful ride, connecting with incredible humans across the globe and building a movement that’s all about unity and inclusivity. The Queer Indigo is more than just a persona; it’s a reflection of the vibrant and diverse queer culture I’ve had the honor of being a part of. From lifestyle curation to digital content creation, every step has been about fostering a sense of community and shared empowerment.
Your new short film, “Berlin Angels,” is a stunning celebration of queer identity and community. What inspired you to create this project?
“Berlin Angels” was born out of a deep love for the global queer community and a desire to highlight the beauty of our shared experiences, especially those of AMAB individuals. Berlin, with its rich history of queer expression and rebellion, felt like the perfect backdrop for this project. I wanted to create something that not only celebrated our identities but also captured the essence of togetherness and the transformative power of unity. The idea was to bring together voices from around the world, each with their own story and style, to create a tapestry that’s as diverse as it is powerful. It’s more than just a short film—it’s a movement towards visibility, equality, and pride. This project is about showing the world that our differences are our strengths and that when we come together, we create something truly magical.
What inspired everyone to want to be a part of the project?
The Darvish: as one would build a castle to shelter behind its thick stone walls, I have built a new life, career, chosen family here for myself after immigrating to Germany, I’m proud to call Berlin home and those angels have been my backbone in finding my true calling within my art-ivism, “Berlin Angels” is a reminder to our community that our paths are very different but we share the vision of freedom and must hold hands together to achieving it, its empowering to be part of it.
James Mac: I have found a better feeling of acceptance and inspiration to be more queer and outspoken having been part of “Berlin Angels”. There’s still an undercurrent feeling of not fully accepting my queerness from being raised in the rural Irish countryside. That sense of acceptance, self-healing and forgiveness is provoked by taking part in this beautiful collaboration. The film beautifully captures the essence of unity and inclusivity. What do you hope viewers will take away from watching “Berlin Angels”? BA will show viewers the power of celebrating your own uniqueness, body, your culture and ethnicity. All of us ‘angels’ come from different walks of life, backgrounds and upbringings. Yet, we’re here together for this moment, and that makes me want to be a part of something like this. I can imagine feeling the same way when I watch it back, thinking how my younger self and possibly another young not outspoken yet queer person will feel the love to accept themselves more.
The film beautifully captures the essence of unity and inclusivity. What do you hope viewers will take away from watching “Berlin Angels”?
I hope viewers leave “Berlin Angels” feeling deeply inspired and connected to the representation and unity that the film showcases. This project is all about celebrating our identities with pride and recognizing the strength that comes from embracing our differences. I want people to see the beauty in our individuality and the magic that happens when we come together. My goal is for “Berlin Angels” to resonate not just within the queer community, but also to spark broader conversations about inclusivity and visibility. Ultimately, I want everyone who watches to feel a stronger connection to the global queer community and to be reminded that we’re all part of something vibrant and ever-evolving.
How do you see this film fitting into the larger conversation about queer representation and acceptance?
“Berlin Angels” fits into the larger conversation about queer representation and acceptance by amplifying voices that are often underrepresented and showcasing the power of visibility. In a world where queer identities are still marginalized in many places, this film stands as a bold statement that celebrates who we are, unapologetically. By bringing together such a diverse group of AMAB individuals, the film challenges stereotypes and broadens the narrative of what it means to be queer. I see “Berlin Angels” as a catalyst for more dialogue and understanding, pushing the boundaries of representation and reminding people that queer identities are not just to be accepted but celebrated in all their forms. It’s a reminder that our stories matter, and by sharing them, we contribute to a more inclusive and accepting world.
The film’s title, “Berlin Angels,” is intriguing. Can you elaborate on the symbolism behind the title and how it relates to the film’s message?
The title “Berlin Angels” carries a lot of symbolism that ties directly into the film’s message. Berlin has long been a city of liberation, self-expression, and resilience, especially within the queer community. The word “Angels” evokes a sense of guardianship, purity, and a guiding light. In the context of the film, these “angels” represent the powerful, diverse, and vibrant individuals who are not only protecting and uplifting queer culture but also embodying its spirit in the most authentic way. The title reflects the idea that each person in the film is an angel in their own right—bringing their unique story and energy to the world, helping to guide others towards greater acceptance and love. It’s about being both fierce and nurturing, strong and compassionate. “Berlin Angels” symbolizes the beautiful contrast of being both otherworldly and grounded, a celebration of the divine in our everyday lives as we continue to push for visibility, equality, and pride.
Your social media platforms have become a significant platform for LGBTQIA+ voices. How do you use your influence to create a positive impact?
On my social media platforms, I’ve always focused on creating a space where LGBTQIA+ voices can be heard, celebrated, and uplifted. I use my influence to share stories, experiences, and insights that not only highlight the beauty and diversity within our community but also educate and advocate for change. Whether it’s through collaborating with other queer creators, amplifying important conversations, or simply sharing moments of joy and self-expression, my goal is to foster a sense of belonging and visibility.
I’m committed to using my platforms to challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and promote a message of love, equality, and authenticity. It’s all about creating safer spaces where people feel empowered to be themselves, where they can connect with others who understand their journey, and where they can find the courage to live their truth out loud. By being open, honest, and unapologetically myself, I hope to inspire others to do the same, and in doing so, contribute to a more inclusive and supportive world for everyone.
As a public figure, you’ve undoubtedly faced challenges. How do you balance the demands of advocacy with maintaining your own mental health and well-being?
Balancing the demands of advocacy with my own mental health and well-being has definitely been a journey. It’s easy to get caught up in the intensity of the work, especially when it’s something you’re so passionate about. But I’ve learned that taking care of myself is just as important as the advocacy I do for others. I make it a point to set boundaries—knowing when to step back, disconnect, and recharge is crucial. I also surround myself with a strong support system of friends, family, and fellow advocates who understand the challenges and can offer encouragement when needed.
Another big part of maintaining that balance is practicing what I preach. I’m a huge believer in authenticity and self-expression, and that means being honest with myself about when I need a break or when something is weighing me down. Engaging in activities that bring me joy, like music, dance, or simply sitting in or near the water, helps me stay grounded. Ultimately, it’s about finding that sweet spot where I can continue to advocate passionately while also honoring my own needs and well-being. By taking care of myself, I’m better equipped to continue the work I’m passionate about and be there for the community I love. I must say… I need to work out more… get me back to the gym please and thank you.
How do queer parties and safe spaces contribute to the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals?
Queer parties and safe spaces are absolutely vital for the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals. These environments offer more than just a place to have fun—they’re spaces where people can truly be themselves without fear of judgment or discrimination. In a world where many queer individuals often feel marginalized or unsafe, having a space that is explicitly inclusive and celebratory of who they are can be incredibly healing.
These spaces provide a sense of belonging, which is crucial for mental well-being. They allow people to connect with others who understand their experiences, creating a community where they can find support, affirmation, and love. It’s also about the freedom to express yourself, whether through fashion, dance or simply being in the presence of like-minded individuals. This kind of expression is a powerful way to release stress, boost confidence, and foster a sense of pride in one’s identity.
Moreover, these spaces often serve as a refuge from the everyday pressures and challenges that queer individuals may face. They offer a temporary escape where the focus is on joy, celebration, and connection. This kind of environment can significantly contribute to a positive self-image and overall mental health, reminding LGBTQIA+ individuals that they are not alone and that their identity is something to be celebrated, not hidden.
What advice would you give to young people who are coming out or exploring their identity?
To young people who are coming out or exploring their identity, my advice is to take your time and trust your journey, but also recognize the incredible power and importance of being out and visible when you’re in a safe enough space to do so. There’s no rush—your identity is yours to explore at your own pace, and it’s perfectly okay for that understanding to evolve over time. But when you feel ready, know that coming out can be a profoundly empowering step, not just for yourself, but for the entire community.
Being out and visible is one of the most powerful ways we can help shift culture and create a more inclusive world. When we live authentically, we challenge the norms that have kept us in the shadows and pave the way for others to do the same. Your visibility can inspire others, create understanding, and help break down the barriers that still exist in so many parts of society.
It’s crucial, though, to make sure you’re in a safe environment before taking this step. Surround yourself with supportive people—whether that’s friends, family, or an online community who understands and celebrates you. If you’re not there yet, that’s okay too. You’ll know when the time is right, and until then, be kind to yourself as you navigate this journey.
Remember, coming out is not just about declaring who you are to the world; it’s about embracing your true self and living in a way that’s honest and authentic. When you do this, you not only find freedom for yourself, but you also contribute to a broader cultural shift that makes it easier for others to do the same. Your courage and authenticity are catalysts for change, and that’s something incredibly powerful.
What are your future plans for The Queer Indigo? Are there any specific projects or initiatives you’re excited about?
The future of The Queer Indigo is all about continuing to push boundaries and expand the platform in ways that amplify queer voices and create even more spaces for self-expression and authenticity. I’m really excited about some upcoming projects that dive deeper into global queer culture, bringing together voices from different corners of the world to share their stories and experiences. One of the initiatives I’m particularly thrilled about is expanding our digital content to include more interactive and immersive experiences—think virtual safe spaces and events that connect people in real time, no matter where they are.
We are launching the IAMICONIQA Art Book on September 25, which is going to be a huge milestone. This magazine will be a celebration of global queer excellence, featuring stories, interviews, and art from queer individuals around the world. It’s all about shining a spotlight on the incredible talent and diversity within our community, and I can’t wait to share it with everyone. We are planning a launch party in Barcelona on September 26 and Berlin on September 27.
I’m also thrilled to announce the relaunch of my agency, For All Humans. We’re back and ready to produce innovative campaigns and unforgettable experiences that highlight queer culture and creativity. Alongside this, we’re managing a few incredible queer artists and have some exciting projects in the works that are all about pushing the envelope and creating content that resonates on a global scale. For All Humans is all about celebrating diversity and creating spaces where everyone can shine, and I’m so excited about what’s to come.
In addition, I’ll be creating more content where I’m speaking directly about important topics and engaging in conversations with other queer humans. These dialogues will provide a platform for discussing the issues that matter most to our community, offering education, connection, and empowerment. I also plan to travel more extensively, with the aim of amplifying the voices of community members in different countries. By sharing these diverse perspectives, I hope to showcase the richness and resilience of queer culture on a global scale.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our audience?
Connect with all of the Berlin Angels and follow their journey!
