Mr. International Leather’s Inspiring Speech Will Have You Cheering “Yes, Daddy!”

All good things eventually come to an end and so goes the reign of Patrick Smith, the handsome gentleman who’s held the title of Mr. Los Angeles Leather for the past year. Smith made such a strong impression that he eventually went on to be crowned named International Mr. Leather 2015.

While taking the stage last weekend to speak before relinquishing his local title to Jeffrey Erdman, Smith shared memories of growing up in chilly Winnipeg, Canada and, despite having a great job and supportive family, deciding to make his dream of living in sunny Southern California a reality five years ago. Smith felt free to further explore himself in Los Angeles where he soon met his partner.

He reveals that competing for the international title was nerve-wracking but the support of the L.A. leather community, which including posting photos with him on Facebook, helped him feel the solidarity and gave him the courage to take the stage in Chicago and win the contest.

During the past year, Smith notes that he traveled to the Supreme Court for the historic ruling on marriage equality and traveled to antigay countries like Egypt, Uganda and Ukraine, then returned to L.A. to raise funds and awareness for LGBT people there. So, long story short, he’s one of the good guys.

Watch his inspiring speech below.