Calisto Harvalias certainly is a guy that you turn your head for when he walks by, and his sexy DIAGEO men that work with him are an added bonus. How does one get blessed to be surrounded by sexy guys all day long? Well we wanted to know also. David Atlanta had a chance to catch up with DIAGEO superstar Calisto to ask him the fundamental questions on DIAGEO’s Pride 365 initiative, 10 years as an Atlanta Pride sponsor, and where he finds these hot male models we love to see (shirtless).
“I’ve traveled all over the world modeling/acting and I decided it was time to plant roots somewhere because I wasn’t getting any younger! I did a lot of soul searching and went back to hair school. While at Paul Mitchell I began promoting with DIAGEO. Back then, there were few promos in the LGBT market and mostly just during pride season. I saw the potential of the LGBT market as a wonderful subject to expand our promotions to. I told the executives at DIAGEO my idea. DIAGEO was so gracious to listen to my suggestions/ideas and were so supportive even if some of them were not members of the LGBT community.”
It wasn’t soon after that Calisto was all over the city promoting DIAGEO (the makers of some of our favorite brands including Ketel One, Smirnoff, and Tanqueray) in the LGBT bars to show how one company can express love and acceptance in such a strong and unique LGBT community.
“The beauty of DIAGEO is we are a huge family and are all very close. I am blessed to work with such a large company that lets me be ME – outspoken, wild personality and all!”
With the assistance of Managing Director of DIAGEO, Frank Mendez, they have really set a footprint in the Atlanta LGBT community, not just in monetary donations, but by actually showing up and showing face at events, and keeping DIAGEO’s high standards in tact.
“As for my gorgeous male models, I hand pick these handsome gentlemen from all over the city and I make sure they hold a passion about DIAGEO Pride 365 as much as I do. I’m like a proud father with my models, I always make sure they are not just physically beautiful but they have a personality that matches their striking looks.”
This is such a milestone and landmark year for Smirnoff and DIAGEO because 2012 marks Smirnoff’s 10th consecutive year sponsoring Atlanta Pride and the Atlanta PRIDE Committee.
“I am so proud to represent such a loyal and respected brand to the LGBT community, so on that note, remember to SUPPORT THE SPIRITS THAT SUPPORT YOU AS YOU and that smooth spirit is SMIRNOFF!”
This man is the prime example of where hard work will get you. I have known him for years and he always has worked so hard to make his dreams come true. Keep up all the hard work my friend and thank you for being you. We all love you!
-Walter