by thegaymenproject
photos by Kevin Truong
Ilari, in his own words: "Being gay to me means to be a member of a minority group, which I consider a privilege most of the time. It defines who I am for a minor part though.
My challenge in life still is to let my heart speak more and my brain babble less. I cherish some very close friendships with people I have known since I was four. They know I keep my spices in alphabetical order. Career wise I am doing well as a voice-over talent with my own studio. It still amazes me, my vocal chords are making money for 25 years now, allowing me owning apartments in Amsterdam and Berlin.
I had girlfriends for the longest time, until I fell for a Lufthansa steward in Frankfurt. I didn't feel the need to come out before I turned 39, having my first serious relationship with a man who reminded me of Sean Penn. Telling my parents wasn't a big deal. Today I still remain quite private to the outer circle of people.
Like in many Western cities the need for typical gay clubs and pubs has diminished. Bar Prik (in Amsterdam) however is still going strong and I consider it to be an extension of my living room.
(Advice to my younger self) Trust in yourself, confide in close friends, and mess up your spice rack."
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