Pantechnicon to Host Buddhist Leader and LGBTQIA+ Activist Kodo Nishimura for Week of Exclusive Events 

 Watkins Media is thrilled to announce that Kodo Nishimura—internationally celebrated LGBTQIA+ activist, make-up artist and Buddhist Monk—is presenting a series of exclusive talks and workshops at Pantechnicon between the 14th and 20th of March, which will include the launch of the English language edition of his book, This Monk Wears Heels. 

Recently named a TIME Magazine Next Generation Leader, Kodo has shared his journey to self-acceptance and love globally, speaking at the United Nations Population Fund Headquarters in NYC, Microsoft, Facebook, L’Oréal Paris, P&G, and numerous universities, as well as appearing in the Queer Eye: We’re in Japan! special that aired to massive viewership on Netflix. 

Now he is bringing his inspiring journey to self-love and self-definition to Pantechnicon in a series of four exclusive events (all in GMT): 

Wednesday, March 16th: Show Your Colours Make-Up Workshop; 2:30 PM - 4 PM; 6 PM to 7:30 PM. The ultimate tutorial to gender-neutral make-up, a guide to non-traditional beauty looks that are inclusive, body positive and gender fluid. 

Thursday, March 17th: This Monk Wears Heels Book Launch; 6:00 - 7:30 PM. Filled with practical tips for positive thinking, insights into the philosophical approach to life Kodo has crafted as a Buddhist monk and detailing his journey to self-love, the book provides a gentle, loving, and encouraging voice for all those who dare to be different. 

Saturday, March 19th: Changing the LGBTQIA+ Conversation in the East; 2 PM - 3:30 PM. While there has been a proliferation of positive LGBTQIA+ representations in western media in recent years, eastern media has been slow to follow suit. During this intimate chat and reunion with Queer Eye: We're in Japan! hero Kan (@kanyonce), Kodo and Kan will share how they are working to convince the older generations and LGBTQIA+ youth in Japan, as well as people around the world, to accept that it’s okay to be YOU–whomever you are! 

Sunday, March 20th: Be Who You Are: A Talk About Sexuality & Buddhism; 3:30 PM - 5 PM, followed by a private dinner for up to 20 guests (6 PM – 8:30 PM). A chat on Buddhism’s take on sexuality, inclusivity and self-identity, and how Kodo is working to use his platform to add his unique voice and perspective to conversations surrounding spirituality and LGBTQIA+ rights within the modern era. 

For further details, interviews and requests, please contact Sarah Blackwell at sarah.blackwell@pantechnicon.com and/or Laura Whitaker-Jones at laura.whitaker-jones@watkinspublishing.com.