Love Knows No Borders – The Inspiring Journey of Emil & Alejandro

In a world where love knows no bounds, where barriers crumble beneath the weight of passion and unity, the tale of Emil and Alejandro emerges as a breathtaking symphony of resilience, inspiration, and unwavering devotion.

Alejandro, the mesmerizing vocalist who captivated the UK audience on X-Factor and The Voice Romania, seamlessly juggles his life as a musician and with his role as a business consultant at one of the world’s preeminent consultancy firms, and is now poised to unveil his music on the world stage. Emil, the fearless maestro of movement, who emerged triumphant as the victor of “Romania’s Got Talent” takes life head on as one of Eastern Europes most prominent influencers. He not only shapestrends, but also spearheads influencer marketing at one of the most prestigious festivals on the planet.

Their convergence is no mere coincidence but a collision of destiny, ignited by a shared love for music, dance, and the transformative power of art. Across seas and cultural divides, their bond blossoms, defying societal norms and geographical barriers with a resounding message of acceptance and unity.

In a world where diversity is celebrated and love knows no boundaries, Alejandro and Emil’s story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Their love is a reminder that cultural differences should be embraced and celebrated, as they enrich the tapestry of human experience.

We are thrilled to announce that Alejandro and Emil are engaged, and we at British Thoughts Magazine™ are honoured to have invited them to share their remarkable love story with our readers.

As they embark on this journey together, they carry with them the message that love, indeed, has the power to unite us all, transcending language, nationality, and prejudice

 

If you could have a magic wand, what would be the one thing you would change in the World?

If we were granted a magical wand to enact change upon the World, we would wish to instil within every individual a profound sense of empathy and compassion. Imagine a world where understanding and kindness are the guiding principles of our interactions, where every person is attuned to the struggles and triumphs of others, regardless of differences. With empathy as our compass, we would forge deeper connections, bridge divides, and uplift one another in times of need. Empathy would dissolve barriers of hatred and prejudice, fostering a global community bound by solidarity and love. It is through this transformative power of empathy that we can create a world where every individual is seen, heard, and valued—a world where humanity thrives in harmony and compassion reigns supreme.

How do you describe love?

Love is power, love is strength, love is the ability to take on the world knowing that you are safe, that you are secure & that you will always have a home. It’s the touch of understanding in moments of vulnerability, the steadfast support during life’s trials, and the joyous celebration of each other’s successes.

In a society where LGBTQ+ rights are still being challenged, how do you navigate your relationship in the public eye?

Navigating our relationship in the public eye amidst ongoing challenges to LGBTQ+ rights requires a delicate balance of authenticity, resilience, and advocacy. We approach each day with a steadfast commitment to being true to ourselves and our love, regardless of external pressures or societal norms. While we acknowledge the existence of obstacles and discrimination, we refuse to let fear dictate the authenticity of our relationship. Instead, we choose to lead by example, fostering understanding and acceptance through visibility and advocacy. By living our truth openly and unapologetically, we strive to dismantle stereotypes and promote inclusivity, paving the way for a more equitable society where love knows no boundaries. We recognize that our love is not just a personal journey but also a platform for social change, and we are proud to stand at the forefront of the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in Eastern Europe and further afield.

What advice would you give to young LGBTQ+ individuals struggling with societal acceptance?

  • Be true to yourself: Embrace your identity and love who you are. Your authenticity is your greatest strength, and it’s essential to honor your truth regardless of external pressures.
  • Seek support: Surround yourself with allies, friends, and organizations that affirm and uplift your identity. Connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide invaluable support and validation.
  • Educate yourself: Knowledge is power. Take the time to educate yourself about LGBTQ+ history, rights, and resources available to you. Understanding your rights and the broader LGBTQ+ community can empower you to navigate challenges with confidence.
  • Practice self-care: Prioritize your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Take time for self-care activities that nourish your soul and recharge your spirit, whether it’s meditation, art, exercise, or spending time with loved ones.
  • Advocate for change: Your voice matters. Use your experiences and insights to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility in your community. Whether it’s through activism, volunteering, or simply speaking out, you have the power to make a difference.
  • Remember, you are not alone: Even in moments of doubt or isolation, know that there is a vast community of LGBTQ+ individuals and allies standing with you. Reach out for support when needed and remember that you are worthy of love and acceptance just as you are.

How do you maintain a healthy balance between your private life and your public persona?

Handling intrusive or inappropriate questions about our relationship requires a combination of assertiveness, grace, and boundary-setting. It takes effort, but it comes in hand with being in the public eye

What message do you hope your marriage sends to LGBTQ+ individuals around the world?

The message we hope our marriage sends to LGBTQ+ individuals around the world is one of hope, validation, and celebration. By openly expressing our love and commitment, we aim to show LGBTQ+ individuals that their relationships are valid, worthy of recognition, and deserving of celebration.

QUIZ  TWOGETHER

Q: Reflecting on your journey, what pivotal moment made you embrace your identity with pride?

Alejandro – The moment that a young boy say that I helped help come out by just being open about my sexuality

EmilThe moment that stands out is when Alejandro held my hand at a crowded, intimidating event in Romania and in his eyes, I saw nothing but admiration and love. His unwavering support is my anchor, and in that
moment, I vowed to never hide who I am because to him, I’m perfect.

Q: Have you encountered any significant obstacles in your career due to your sexual orientation, and how did you overcome them?

Alejandro There was an agreement between myself and my representation that the public couldn’t find out about my sexuality. It hurt me, and it was difficult to accept, but ultimately, it made me work harder so that I could prove that I could be anyone who I wanted to be despite what anybody thought of me.

EmilOh, there were obstacles, alright- like the time I was advised to be less ‘me’ to fit in better. I overcame them by turning my uniqueness into my
superpower.

Q: How do you support each other through the highs and lows of life in the public eye?

Alejandro We believe in each other, support each others decisions and we remind each other every day of the bigger perspective.

EmilOur secret is in the little things – love notes hidden in suit pockets or the
gentle squeeze of a hand to say, “I’m here, and we’ve got this.” No matter how stormy it gets outside, we create a sanctuary, reminding each other that we’re a team, first and foremost, whether we’re riding a high wave or facing
challenges.

Q: Have there been any cultural or familial challenges in fully embracing your identity and relationship?

Alejandro The Spanish side of my family is very religious, which has always been a challenge for me, since I was young. I often had to hide who I was to ‘fit the status quo’, but ultimately, dealing with existential adversity is character building and makes you stronger, and makes me love Emil harder.

EmilAbsolutely. Imagine a British tea party meets an East European feast- all the formalities clashing with the heartwarming chaos. When it comes to my family, I take things slowly, understanding and embracing their process. At the
heart of all cultures, love is a language we all understand.

Q: How do you navigate the cultural differences between your Western and East European backgrounds in your relationship?

Alejandro Its always important to provide a safe space for each other, and give each other the support that we need without judgement. I’ve been lucky enough to grow up in an inclusive society, where I am protected, however Emil hasn’t been as fortunate. Therefore I feel like it’s my job to be his safe space, it’s my job to give that extra bit of love, and it’s my job to be the family and/or friend that is missing.

EmilIt’s like being chefs in a fusion kitchen -we blend our cultures like we’re mixing ingredients for a masterpiece dish. Sure, sometimes it’s more like an experimental dish gone wrong, but it’s our dish. Whether we’re learning each other’s languages, traditions, or culinary preferences, it’s done with love and an open heart. Alejandro’s willingness to embrace my culture with the same love he has for his own has been the most romantic
journey.

Q: Alejandro, how does it feel coming from a place where your marriage rights are fully recognized to being engaged to someone from a country where your marital status isn’t acknowledged legally?

Alejandro It’s difficult, I won’t sugar coat it. I find it hard to see Emil navigate situations which are somewhat alien to me. It hurts to see Emil fight for what has come to me so easily, or willingly. However, what I can say is this, there is nothing on this planet that will stop me loving this man with every inch of my being.

Q: How do you support each other emotionally as you navigate the complexities of cross-cultural relationships and legal inequalities?

Alejandro –  It’s important to keep reminding yourself of the bigger picture. I’m quite logical, and I see every spout of negativity as an opportunity to grow or an opportunity to educate. Closed views are almost always coming from a lack of education or opportunity, and when you realise that you stop being angry; it motivates you.

EmilCultural differences? They’re just opportunities for more jokes. After all, if you can find humor in the bureaucracy, you’re already winning at life
together.

Q: Can you share any insights or lessons learned from interacting with each other’s parents, considering the cultural differences between your families?

Alejandro My experience is that you always need to provide room for growth. You need to be a united front and you need to have patience and empathy. There is no right or wrong, but a difference in experience and opinion, which everyone is entitled to. Your family is an extension of you, regardless of how different they are, and I will love and continue to love every member of Emil’s family like my own.

Emil Meeting each other’s parents was like a comedy of manners meets a reality TV show. Watching Alejandro engage with my Romanian family, attempting phrases in Romanian with a delightful British accent, and seeing him embrace our traditions with such genuine affection and respect, taught me a valuable lesson in love and unity. Also, never underestimate the power of a well-timed compliment about the cooking-it’s the universal peacekeeper! Especially when the food is heavenly tasty, Maria!

In essence, our journey together has been an incredible blend of love, laughter, and learning. Facing the world as a united front, we’ve turned our
differences into our strengths, proving that at the end of the day, love always WITS.

Photographs by Alex Zainea 
Article by Charlotte Edison