Kegan

Kegan, 19, lives with his family in a small town in western Slovakia, still mulling over what to study at university. He’s well-read and could easily lean toward sociology, psychology, political science, or even philosophy, given his thoughtful nature. Yet, like many eager young souls today, he’s caught up in the world of social media, trying to crack its algorithms and carve out a niche as a life coach. His interest in spirituality stands out, pushing him toward deeper experiences rather than the instant gratification social media often offers.

I first met Kegan during the summer while touring the country for recruiting rounds. He popped up near a mall, part of a group of good-looking young men, including a friend of mine. Our eyes locked when we were introduced, and I was completely taken. Later, we all sat down at a tea garden, chatting for hours about life, the universe, and everything—our friends eventually drifted off, but Kegan and I kept going, club-hopping through the night. I was impressed by his friendliness; he chatted and danced with anyone nearby, making it one of the most fun nights I’ve had.

We were both a bit shy at first during the photoshoot, taking things at a slower, more gradual pace than usual. It felt more like hanging out with a friend than a professional gig. He’d been unsure about giving it a shot at first, but thankfully he went for it and later admitted it felt way more comfortable than he’d expected. We’re still in touch, and I’m looking forward to enjoying another outing with him soon.