Hi Sadiq, can you tell us more about yourself? You’re a model and performer, right?
Yes, with the last few years predominantly dedicated to training in Circus, like with this shoot. I perform mainly on Chinese Pole (which is a 6 metre high pole for acrobatics and dance) and Aerial Rope. In fact I’m just now graduating with a degree in Circus. Modelling is something that compliments performance well and I love collaborating on creative projects, both for stills and for stage.

How long have you been performing?
I remember my first performance was when I was 15 at school as part of a fire dance troupe, now looking back I’m surprised they encouraged it but glad that they did! The biggest event I’ve done purely on size would be when I represented the UK last year at Mr Gay World in Malta.

What’s been your favourite event so far?
I created a solo act that used circus, theatre and dance to explore both personal experience and social issues around Islam and homosexuality. I was shitting it when I presented it but the feeling at the end of the show, bowing to a standing ovation has to be the best.

What else do we need to know about you?
I’ve done a lot of work around HIV de-stigmatisation, which is what found me at Mr Gay World in the first place. I was diagnosed myself in 2014, in a time that is already so progressive that no one should suffer from outdated stereotypes or be targeted because of them. It does find its way into some of my creative work as a stimulus. Since then I’ve been pushing to promote PrEP which has contributed to the first ever falling rates of new HIV transmissions. This makes me so proud.

What’s happening in 2017?
Recently I shot for Fetish Week London and Recon. Posters with the images are up over central London just now and maybe it’s a bit vain but there’s something really sweet about walking past your work. Those events are next week and then after that? I’ll keep creating work (I have a few concepts I’m already working on) while performing and shooting.

What was the Loverboy shoot like?
Having worked with Karl once before I found it really easy to vibe off him. He is super talented and I trust his instinct which always brings out something special. The shoot was a laugh as well as good work.

If you were a wrestler what would be your trademark move?
Is trying on all the gear a trademark? Otherwise you can’t beat a well-placed choke hold.

Finally what is your favourite Mariah Carey song?
Um honestly, I must be a pretty bad gay but I don’t really know her stuff!

Follow Sadiq on Instagram.

Follow Karl on Instagram or at https://karlslater.com/

CREDITS
Image 1,2, 3, 4 and 5: Slick It Up, V-Taper Suit.
Image 6,7 and 8: Rufskin, Krypto top and trousers.