Warning: This article contains handsome naked men
Now that we have your attention, it’s time we make you aware of a mouth-watering new calendar that combines arousing imagery with fundraising and spreading (awareness).
The Red Ribbon calendar features a delicious pick n mix of fellas that have stripped down to their Addicted underwear (or less) to capture your attention, your heart and unquenchable thirst. With the Zero 30 goal in mind, it’s time to add to the battle against HIV stigma with a daring and delightful statement.
We checked in with fabulous photographer Mark and the beautiful, bulging Jordan to chat all about the photoshoot, behind the scenes antics, bums (naturally) and of course, the two amazing charities that the calendar has been created to benefit.
A Photographers View
What was the most important message you wanted to convey with the shoot?
The heart of this project was to show that the red ribbon is more than just fabric — it’s one of the most powerful global symbols of HIV awareness, unity, and compassion. First introduced in 1991 by a collective of artists in New York, the ribbon was designed as a bold but simple visual gesture that anyone could wear. Its colour was chosen to represent love, passion, and life, but also the urgency of the epidemic at the time.
By weaving the models into the ribbon, I wanted to echo that history while giving it fresh life for today. The ribbon becomes the thread that binds every page of the calendar together, tying people into pairs, trios, and groups, but always carrying the same message of solidarity. For me, it was about creating something that wasn’t just visually striking but would also spark conversation, challenge stigma, and keep awareness alive throughout the year.
Was the concept something you already had in mind or was it developed after the models were on
board?
The central idea of using the red ribbon as a binding element was there from the very beginning. I knew I wanted a constant visual theme that carried through each month, and the ribbon provided both a symbolic and creative anchor.
That said, once the models came on board, the project became much more collaborative. Their personalities, diversity, and willingness to experiment really helped shape the direction of the poses. Some moments were carefully planned, while others evolved very naturally on set. In many ways, the models gave the ribbon new energy — they weren’t just wearing it, they were embodying its meaning. That blend of planning and spontaneity made the shoot much more powerful.
Alongside purchasing the calendar, what else would you encourage people to do in order to help
achieve the ZERO 30 goal?
Buying the calendar is a fantastic way to support the cause, but the journey towards ZERO new HIV transmissions by 2030 is something that relies on action from all of us.
I’d encourage people to:
– Use your platforms — whether that’s social media or just everyday conversations — to help
break down stigma, challenge misinformation, and remind people that HIV is treatable and
preventable.
– Get tested regularly and normalise talking about HIV testing with friends and partners.
– Support charities like The Sussex Beacon and Terrence Higgins Trust not just financially, but also by attending their events, volunteering, or sharing their resources.
The goal of ZERO 2030 is absolutely achievable, but it takes a collective effort — calendars alone
won’t do it. We need awareness, openness, and continued compassion.
Who was the cheekiest of the models behind the scenes?
There were definitely a few cheeky moments from all of the models, but if I had to choose, I’d say Jordan Harris kept everyone laughing the most. His sense of humour and energy really helped keep the atmosphere light and fun, even when we were doing the more complex ribbon set-ups that required patience and stillness.
That playfulness was contagious, with twerking competitions and laughter throughout the day — it relaxed everyone and made the shoot feel more like a celebration than a task. It’s important in a project like this to balance the seriousness of the message with the joy and humanity of the people involved, and Jordan really embodied that balance as did every single person involved.
Do you think we’ll be getting round two of the calendar next year?
I would love for there to be a second edition. The response to this calendar has been incredibly positive, and that tells me the appetite for both the message and the imagery is there. What excites me is the possibility of building on this — making the next one even bolder, involving more voices, and finding new ways to visualise the red ribbon.
At the same time, I want to make sure each project has a clear purpose. This year, it was about
establishing the ribbon as a constant visual thread and supporting two charities doing vital work. If
we do a round two, it will be with the same focus: to create art with impact, raise funds, and keep
HIV awareness in the spotlight.
To make that possible, I’d love to welcome even more support from sponsors and partners, whether that’s through funding, advertising, promotion, printing or donating materials we can use in the shoot. The more backing we have, the bigger the reach we can achieve and the more money we can raise for the charities. The ribbon isn’t going anywhere, and neither should the conversation and with greater support, the next calendar could be even more ambitious.
This whole project has been funded by myself and Jordan, and as much as we love doing it, we are also limited in our reach.
Bonus: Behind the scenes naughty group shot!
The man with a plan
First and foremost, can you tell us a more about the two charities that this fabulous calendar has been created for?
Yes of course! The two charities I’m raising money for are The Terrance Higgins Trust & Sussex Beacon, both charities provide support and services for those living with HIV and have been such a life line for our community.
The aim is to achieve a little thing by the name of Zero 30, for those who have yet to head about it, can you offer up some education on the subject that can be passed on?
So Zero 30 is a UK based initiative to stop new transmissions and aids related death by 2030, and projects like this to raise awareness and start conversions around preventative treatment, existing treatments for those living with HIV and raising money for charities like this to continue to provide support and services is vital.
What do you feel are the biggest changes we could make together to achieve this goal?
It’s all about education, awareness, and not making HIV a taboo subject by having conversations.
From your personal experience, how do you feel the unnecessary social stigma surrounding HIV has changed in recent years?
To be honest, I was ignorant and didn’t think people still faced stigma, until speaking to friends living with HIV, who have faced stigma and discrimination. I also watched I Kissed a Boy, and Adam’s story around people still using the term “are you clean”, which I thought was very brave, honest and eye opening!
After hearing these stories, I just wanted to help and knew of Terrance Higgins, and a good friend of mine mentioned the Sussex Beacon, and after doing some research on the fantastic they do, and speaking to them, I knew I wanted to raise money for them too.
The calendar isn’t just about raising money, it’s about sparking conversations to combat the stigma and misinformation. We will also be providing information leaflets with every purchase too!
What are three facts about living with HIV that you feel are crucial for people to know to help them understand it better?
U = U which means undetectable means untransmittable
HIV and AIDS are different conditions
HIV with treatment is a manageable chronic condition and not a death sentence like it once was.
Give us a little bit of a teaser to entice people in, just how cheeky are some of the shots in the calendar going to be?
Haha, the calendar is a mixture of implied nudes and underwear that was provided by Addicted UK!
This isn’t your first rodeo when it comes to charity calendars, are you planning to make it a yearly tradition to raise funds and awareness through the art of nudity?
Yes, last year I sold over 200 copies raising money and awareness around testicular cancer via the Odd Balls Foundation.
I think this will be an annual tradition moving forward as there are many amazing charities that I’d love to support!
My good friend Mark (Mwordsphotography) shot all the amazing photos for my last calendar and this years! We are like the dynamic duo!
Which of your fellow models in your humble option was giving the most peachy display? (Yes, we’re asking about the booty)
I couldn’t possibly choose! All the models are featured are gorgeous!
(Note: We’re showing off Jordan’s ass since he wouldn’t choose)
Will any behind the scenes action potentially become available, perhaps for an additional fee to raise extra funds?
We will be releasing a limited group photo print, so watch this space! I’ve also posted a behind the scenes video on my insta that you can check out on the link below:
https://www.instagram.com/jordanwch_92?igsh=NGxlMHV6aDl1dzY2&utm_source=qr
Finally, if people want to get more involved with either the project itself or potentially setting something up themselves, where should they be heading?
You can buy the calendar now online using this link!
I’ve also arranged calendar launch parties in Brighton and Kent, with London TBC!
The boys and I will be selling and signing calendars at:
Bar Broadway Brighton – 25th October
La! Margate Kent – 29th November
So if you’re in the area come and say hi.
Also keep an eye on mine and Mark’s socials for a casting call for models for our next calendar!
Need further reason to purchase a calendar? Here are a few:
– Treat yourself
– Birthday gift
– Christmas is coming up
– Conversation piece
– Closer inspection of the goods
– Good Karma
Just click here and secure yourself an iconic Red Ribbon calendar!
