Want to break stereotypes: gender neutral model Petr Nitka

Petr Nitka is set to become the first gender neutral model to walk on the Indian runway and he says the platform will give him a chance to show people that sexual orientation should not deter anyone from being who they are.
Petr Nitka from Czech Republic, has been chosen to walk the ramp for Lakme Fashion Week Summer/Resort which is scheduled to begin on from February 1.
"I am very excited to be a part of LFW. Being the first ever gender neutral model in India gives me the opportunity to showcase to people that your sexual orientation should not deter you from being who you are," Petr told PTI.

"It is the perfect opportunity to destroy prejudices; stereotypes about races, sexual preferences, religions, gender, minorities, and women. I look forward to experience Indian fashion, culture, and people."
Petr's first brush with modelling was when he travelled to Australia for higher studies and did a photoshoot with photographer Bharathan Gangatheran.
"The images got published in a leading magazine and I realized that I am not a typical model and am closer to a gender-neutral model. The most interesting aspect of being the gender-neutral model was that my profound love for fashion and makeup was also going to be satiated."

However, the road to success was not easy for Petr, who found it difficult to find modelling agencies in Czech Republic to represent him. He has walked for the South African Fashion Week and has worked with various renowned fashion designers and fashion photographers.

"Walking in South Africa was amazing. I didn't know that I am the first ever gender neutral model in Africa. I found out on my way home from a magazine."
Petr, who walks for menswear and womenswear, has continued to work with Gangatheran and recently signed a contract with his agency, Indi Models.
The model says he wants to inspire others like him and dreams of becoming the first gender neutral model in countries where homosexuality is yet to be legal.
"My message is simple, be yourself! Be who really are and do what you like. Believing in yourself is the biggest gift you can give yourself.