Society has progressed immensely since I was a young man coming to terms with my sexuality and it’s great that there are many visible role models whom certain young people can relate to. I feel like this may have been different if I had had someone that I felt understood the things I was experiencing. I know they are now, but for years my mental health suffered due to feelings of confusion and isolation. I struggled to define my thoughts and emotions as normal. (More on Casey’s adventures in the city and his return to the country in Better the second time around – Casey Conway’s relationship with the city)

This was the case for me as a young Aboriginal boy growing up in the country. Depending on our circumstances, it may not always be easy to identify people that we can relate to. Role models can be anyone: family members, friends, colleagues, sports people and media personalities, to name a few. As humans, we are always looking around us for inspiration, guidance and direction in making decisions regarding the things that shape who we are and ultimately, our happiness. It’s no secret that having a role model, both as a child and an adult, can have a lasting positive impact that can influence the direction of a person’s life. I am proud to be a gay man but I haven’t always felt this way. I feel privileged to be seen this way and appreciate the responsibility that comes with it.

I’ve never stopped to think what that actually means, to me and to those around me. In recent times, since sharing my coming out story, I have been referred to, by some, as a role model – not only for Indigenous young people, but also for LGBTI young people. Model and former Rugby League player Casey Conway reflects on being a role model and what it means to inspire someone.

Gay models