Stepping down on October 13, 2024, Will Howard reflects on a year of unity, love, and mental health advocacy within the leather-fetish and LGBTQIA+ communities.

Will Howard, affectionately known as Leatherman Will, will conclude his tenure as Mr. Ramrod 2024 on the evening of October 13. Throughout his year-long journey, Will dedicated himself to showcasing the profound impact a titleholder can have by utilizing his platform to foster unity and inspire positive change within the leather-fetish and LGBTQIA+ communities.

Tired of witnessing the decline of leather communities over the past decade, Will took decisive action. Believing that fellowship is the cornerstone of unity, he emphasized that everyone desires belonging, inclusion, and love. “Love builds relationships. Love is understanding. Love is acceptance,” he affirmed.

To embody these principles, Will organized events like the Leather Family Social. These gatherings were intentionally inclusive and diverse, creating spaces where individuals could share perspectives and build meaningful relationships. Such environments became the foundation for open, healthy conversations on critical issues affecting the community, notably mental health.

Initially focusing on two primary topics, Will soon realized that mental health was a more pervasive issue than he had anticipated. Recognizing that mental health challenges affect nearly everyone to some degree, he prioritized raising awareness and promoting understanding. “With love, we teach, listen, and help each other unconditionally,” he stated. “This is how we diminish the effects of mental health issues and create an environment where we all belong, are understood, and are loved.”

Will’s message of inclusiveness and love resonated deeply, eliciting overwhelming support from the community. Businesses like the Ramrod, LGBTQIA+ establishments, the leather-fetish community, and countless individuals contributed to making his vision a reality—not just in South Florida, but nationwide.

Expressing his heartfelt gratitude, Will shared, “Thank you for an exceptional year that has changed my life forever. I am proud of who I am and what a humble honor it has been to serve all of you.”

As he steps down, Will leaves behind a legacy of love, fellowship, and advocacy that will continue to inspire and strengthen the communities he holds dear.