To our Bootblack Family and Friends,
As you know, IMBB will not be held this year. We know this is a disappointment as IMBB is an important recognition of the passionate work of our bootblack siblings. We are working with the community to determine how best to move forward in future years to ensure that everyone is welcomed and celebrated, and we look forward to sharing more about the process and the discoveries as soon as possible.
We are currently working with International Mr. Bootblack 2023 Alistair LeatherHiraeth to ensure that we have the opportunity to celebrate his title year and express our gratitude during his step-down speech. Alistair has done a tremendous job representing bootblacks, the leather community and IML-IMBB.
As an important part of our leather community, we hope to see our bootblack siblings at the 2023 event weekend. Many of you may want to come to just relax and enjoy spending time with family and friends.
The Operations Board of International Mr. Leather is pleased to announce that Leslie Anderson and Team Shine will be staffing the bootblack stands during IML Weekend in between their other duties! As a result, we will have time available for other bootblacks to showcase their talents. This is of course, completely up to each individual bootblack to decide if it is of interest.
Open Shine will be held during the same hours as the Vendor Mart:
Friday 12 noon – 7 pm / Saturday 11 am – 7 pm / Sunday 11 am – 5 pm / Monday 11 am – 4 pm
Any interested bootblacks can fill out the form below and submit their application to come and shine at IML this year. The applications will be reviewed by Leslie and Team Shine and selection will be based solely on skill and experience. No discrimination of any kind will be a part of the process.
There will be 4 stands provided by IML. Bootblacks may not bring their own stands and will be responsible for bringing their own supplies. Bootblacks must be on time for their shift, and if running late, must communicate with Leslie or their designee. Each bootblack is autonomous for their own stand while they are shining and reserve the right to refuse service for any reason.
Bootblacks may advertise on social media if they are selected. Each bootblack is responsible for their own monies. IML will not handle tips or fees on behalf of any bootblack. Abuse or disrespect will not be tolerated by anyone under any circumstances.
We will be working with Leslie to publicize Open Shine at IML 2023.
Thank you, Leslie, and Team Shine for stepping forward.
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