Latest news with #ZanderMurray
Glasgow Times
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
Zander Murray hosts community dinner at Glasgow hotel
Zander Murray will be hosting a community dinner at The Social Hub on July 17. It will celebrate connection, collaboration, and creativity. He also led a Lunch & Learn session at the venue on Wednesday, June 25, sharing his personal journey and calling for greater visibility and representation in sport. Read more: Celtic receive €2m transfer offer for out-of-favour defender Major supermarket chain hiring for new roles across Glasgow The Lunch & Learn event is part of The Social Hub's week-long Pride Hub programme. Zander, who came out publicly in 2022 during his playing career, said: "In a city that means so much to me, this kind of event matters. "It's not just about being seen. It's about being heard." A former striker for Gala Fairydean Rovers, Zander made headlines after a Facebook post changed the course of his life. The 33-year-old said: "I was just sitting on a balcony in Benidorm, no Instagram, no Twitter, just me thinking, I'm finally ready. "So I made this wee post for the lads on my team. Fell asleep. Woke up to messages from Lorraine Kelly. "I'm like, what the f*** is going on? "I was literally told to get a flight to London to be on her show. It was insane. 'I didn't play higher because I hated myself. I had this idea that if I went to a big club, someone would dig up a camp photo, post it on a forum, and the abuse would start. 'You don't get slagged for missing a pass. They go for your sexuality. Twitter, TikTok, the comments. It's brutal. "And it messes with your head. You're already under pressure just being a footballer. Add all that, and it's too much.' Following his announcement, Zander became a vocal advocate for inclusivity in sport, delivering talks at schools, football academies, and corporate organisations, including UEFA and the Hong Kong Gay Games. He is also hosting a community dinner at The Social Hub on July 17. He said: "I go into rooms of young boys and ask three questions. "Who's heard homophobic language this month? In this club? Who's said it? "And after I tell my story, you can see the penny drop. "That moment is when things start to change." Zander said returning to Glasgow always hits differently. He said: "Any work in Glasgow means everything to me. "I don't have to slow my voice down. The crowds get it. "I'm from here. It's personal. I see my younger self in all of them."
Daily Record
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Scotland's first openly gay footballer Zander Murray to host Pride events in Glasgow
Since retiring from football, Zander has become an award-winning keynote speaker, delivering talks and workshops to help shift attitudes and win over hearts and minds. Scotland's first openly gay professional footballer Zander Murray is set to headline Pride events in Glasgow. The 33-year-old, who played for Bonnyrigg Rose and Gala Fairydean Rovers before retiring, will host a Lunch and Learn session on Wednesday, June 25, at The Social Hub in the Merchant City area. He hopes to share his personal journey, the challenges he's faced, and how visibility and representation can help create a more inclusive future for LGBTQ+ athletes. He will also host a community dinner at the venue on Thursday, July 17, a celebration of connection, collaboration, and creativity. Speaking ahead of the events, Zander said: 'In a city that means so much to me, this kind of event matters. It's not just about being seen. It's about being heard.' They form part of the venue's temporary name change to the "Pride Hub" and programme of inclusive events throughout July. Zander made headlines after coming out during his playing career by way of a quiet post on Facebook in 2022. He has also investigated homophobia in Scottish football in a documentary for the BBC's Disclosure programme. He recalled: 'I was just sitting on a balcony in Benidorm, no Instagram, no Twitter, just me thinking, I'm finally ready. So I made this wee post for the lads on my team. Fell asleep. Woke up to messages from Lorraine Kelly. I'm like, what the f*** is going on? I was literally told to get a flight to London to be on her show. It was insane. "I signed for a new club just after coming out, and suddenly the BBC documentary dropped early. I was presenting it, doing press, trying to stay match-fit. It was too much. I had to leave pre-season camp early to lead Edinburgh Pride. Two weeks later, I was off to Hong Kong to speak at the Gay Games. The advocacy just took over. 'I didn't play higher because I hated myself. I had this idea that if I went to a big club, someone would dig up a camp photo, post it on a forum, and the abuse would start. That fear stayed with me for years. I sabotaged myself before anyone else could. 'You don't get slagged for missing a pass. They go for your sexuality. Twitter, TikTok, the comments. It's brutal. And it messes with your head. You're already under pressure just being a footballer. Add all that, and it's too much.' Since then, Zander has become a tireless advocate for inclusivity in sport. He is now an award-winning keynote speaker, delivering talks and workshops across schools, football academies and corporate organisations including LinkedIn, Morgan Stanley, UEFA and the Hong Kong Gay Games, helping to shift attitudes and win over hearts and minds. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Zander said: 'I go into rooms of young boys and ask three questions. Who's heard homophobic language this month? In this club? Who's said it? And after I tell my story, you can see the penny drop. That moment is when things start to change.' Zander has travelled across the UK and internationally for advocacy work, from the Gay Games in Hong Kong to Pride events in Manchester and London, but says returning to Glasgow always hits differently. He added: 'Any work in Glasgow means everything to me. I don't have to slow my voice down. The crowds get it. I'm from here. It's personal. I see my younger self in all of them. 'You walk into a room in the east end and the lads are pure giggling, acting daft. But once you tell them what it was like growing up gay in a scheme, they get it. You see the shift happen in real time. That's the power of doing it here. 'When I saw my shirt in the museum at Hampden, next to legends like Sir Alex Ferguson and Denis Law, I felt like a total imposter. But then I thought, what if 13-year-old me saw that, that could've saved my life. 'They're smashing it at The Social Hub. Hosting sober events, listening, adapting. You feel seen there, and it's actually for the community.' Zander's upcoming event forms just part of the venue's temporary rebrand as the 'Pride Hub' for July, with a focus on inclusive, community-led programming. He said: "They asked for my input and actually acted on it. That doesn't happen often. It's a real partnership. No egos, just action. More of that, please.' In 2018, Zander's intense schedule and unprocessed stress caught up with him, forcing him to confront his own health and burnout. 'I burned out. Shingles, chronic fatigue. I've never fully shaken it. But it pushed me into something new," he said. "Now I'm thinking about training as a trauma-informed coach. I've got the psychology background, the lived experience, and the drive to help other people who feel like I used to. 'My advice to anyone who wants to do this kind of work is to sit down with your demons. Properly. Have a cup of tea with them. Once you've made peace with yourself, then you're ready. The hate will come. But so will the impact.'
The Herald Scotland
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Scotland's first gay footballer Zander Murray to host Pride events
The Lunch & Learn session will be hosted at The Social Hub by Zander, who will share his personal journey, the challenges he's faced, and how visibility and representation can help create a more inclusive future for LGBTQ+ athletes. Murray will also host a community dinner at The Social Hub on Thursday 17 July, a celebration of connection, collaboration, and creativity. The former footballer, who played for Lowland League team Gala Fairydean when he came out, said: 'In a city that means so much to me, this kind of event matters. It's not just about being seen. It's about being heard.' Murray became the first openly gay male footballer in Scotland in 2022. Since then, he has become a tireless advocate for inclusivity in sport. Zander Murray during his playing days (Image: Social Hub) He said: 'I was just sitting on a balcony in Benidorm, no Instagram, no Twitter, just me thinking, I'm finally ready. So I made this wee post for the lads on my team. Fell asleep. Woke up to messages from Lorraine Kelly. I'm like, what is going on? I was literally told to get a flight to London to be on her show. It was insane.' 'I signed for a new club just after coming out, and suddenly the BBC documentary dropped early. I was presenting it, doing press, trying to stay match-fit. It was too much. I had to leave pre-season camp early to lead Edinburgh Pride. Two weeks later, I was off to Hong Kong to speak at the Gay Games. The advocacy just took over.' He added: 'You don't get slagged for missing a pass. They go for your sexuality. Twitter, TikTok, the comments. It's brutal. And it messes with your head. You're already under pressure just being a footballer. Add all that, and it's too much.' Murray is now an award-winning keynote speaker, delivering talks and workshops across schools, football academies and corporate organisations including LinkedIn, Morgan Stanley, UEFA and the Hong Kong Gay Games, helping to shift attitudes and win over hearts and minds. Zander Murray will appear at The Social Hub in Glasgow (Image: Social Hub) He said: 'I go into rooms of young boys and ask three questions. Who's heard homophobic language this month? In this club? Who's said it? And after I tell my story, you can see the penny drop. That moment is when things start to change.' Murray has travelled across the UK and internationally for advocacy work, from the Gay Games in Hong Kong to Pride events in Manchester and London, but says returning to Glasgow always hits differently. 'Any work in Glasgow means everything to me. I don't have to slow my voice down. The crowds get it. I'm from here. It's personal. I see my younger self in all of them.' 'You walk into a room in the east end and the lads are pure giggling, acting daft. But once you tell them what it was like growing up gay in a scheme, they get it. You see the shift happen in real time. That's the power of doing it here.' 'When I saw my shirt in the museum at Hampden, next to legends like Sir Alex Ferguson and Denis Law, I felt like a total imposter. But then I thought, what if 13-year-old me saw that, that could've saved my life.' 'They're smashing it at The Social Hub. Hosting sober events, listening, adapting. You feel seen there, and it's actually for the community.'
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Why influencers are choosing Seneca UK for their hair restoration treatments
When it comes to hair restoration, there's a reason more and more high-profile names are turning to Seneca Medical Group UK - and particularly its Glasgow clinic - for their treatments. With over 35 years of experience, a consistent track record of award-winning care, and a medical ethos built around personalised treatment plans delivered exclusively by qualified doctors, Seneca is redefining what patients should expect from a hair transplant clinic. From influencers and athletes to lifestyle bloggers and gaming entrepreneurs, public figures are opening up about their personal experiences with hair loss and, importantly, the clinics they trust to help them restore confidence. Among the many clients choosing Seneca UK are John Robertson, founder of TheEverydayMan and ranked #3 in the Top UK Lifestyle Blogs 2025, Zander Murray, a former professional footballer, Archie Watson, a personal trainer and fitness coach and Scott Method, Twitch Partner and founder of gaming collective Their reasons for choosing Seneca are strikingly similar: trusted expertise, natural results, and discretion - all backed by a globally recognised brand in medical hair restoration. Seneca Medical Group isn't just another name in the hair transplant industry. It is a pioneer with an unmatched international reputation. With a presence in nine countries including Scotland, Seneca's foundation is built on over three decades of clinical excellence and scientific research in hair loss treatments. The clinic has been honoured with numerous awards, including distinctions in medical tourism, innovation, and quality of care - and combined with a number of delighted high profile clients, these accolades are a reflection of the exceptionally high standards that underpin every procedure. What truly sets Seneca apart is its exclusive use of doctors to perform every hair transplant procedure. Unlike some clinics that delegate the work to technicians, Seneca insists on the highest clinical standards, meaning each treatment is delivered by a trained and certified medical professional. This commitment not only ensures better results but gives patients peace of mind knowing their hair, health, and appearance are in expert hands. In an age of curated images and social media perfection, many influencers are embracing authenticity, sharing their journeys with hair loss - and their decisions to address it. John Robertson, better known as TheEverydayMan online, documented his hair transplant journey on YouTube, highlighting the professional and supportive environment he experienced at Seneca's UK clinic. In his own words, he praised the personalised approach and noted how Seneca's Glasgow clinic made the process convenient and seamless. "From the consultation to the follow-ups, everything was tailored to me. It's easy to see why Seneca is the go-to clinic for so many people like myself," he said. Zander Murray, whose football career placed him in the public eye, also spoke candidly about his experience. He chose Seneca not just for its proven results, but for the discreet, medically-led care. His testimonial underscores the importance of trust and professionalism in such a personal procedure. "I wanted the best — and that's exactly what I got with Seneca," he said. Archie Watson a qualified personal trainer, and Scott Method, an influential figure in gaming and esports, similarly shared their decisions to trust Seneca. For men working in visual and performance-focused industries, a natural-looking hairline and confidence in their appearance are key. Their stories are available to view on Seneca's official YouTube channel at and offer honest insights into both the emotional and physical transformations possible with expert care. No two hair loss journeys are alike and that's something Seneca recognises in every consultation. The clinic provides individualised treatment plans based on thorough diagnosis, taking into account each patient's medical background, lifestyle, and desired results. Every plan is tailored using advanced diagnostic systems and cutting-edge techniques, ensuring the most natural and lasting outcome. Whether a client is experiencing early signs of thinning or more advanced hair loss, Seneca's comprehensive approach - from diagnosis to post-treatment support - ensures they receive the right treatment, at the right time, in the right hands. Seneca offers a range of services, including the Direct FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) method, which involves the direct implantation of individual hair follicles with precision and minimal trauma. The technique is minimally invasive, requiring no scalpel or stitches, and significantly reduces downtime. For Scottish clients, including many influencers living in or travelling to Glasgow, having access to Seneca's world-class services locally is a game-changer. Seneca's Glasgow clinic, located conveniently in the city centre, offers the same high standards found in its European locations, with staff trained to deliver personalised care in a calm, confidential setting. This is not a one-size-fits-all operation. Seneca's local presence means patients don't need to travel abroad or settle for less-than-ideal solutions. Instead, they get cutting-edge hair restoration right here in Scotland, with all the follow-up care and consultation they need. For the influencers and professionals who have undergone treatment at Seneca UK, the results speak for themselves - in their photos, videos, and candid reviews. But beyond aesthetics, it's about something deeper: having confidence restored and control regained. With over 35 years of experience, award-winning service, qualified professionals performing every procedure and a tailored approach for every client, Seneca UK continues to be a leader in medical hair restoration and the clear choice for influencers who demand nothing less than the best. To explore real patient stories and learn more about treatment options at Seneca UK's Glasgow clinic, visit:
The Herald Scotland
09-06-2025
- Health
- The Herald Scotland
Why influencers choose Seneca UK for their hair restoration treatments
From influencers and athletes to lifestyle bloggers and gaming entrepreneurs, public figures are opening up about their personal experiences with hair loss and, importantly, the clinics they trust to help them restore confidence. Among the many clients choosing Seneca UK are John Robertson, founder of TheEverydayMan and ranked #3 in the Top UK Lifestyle Blogs 2025, Zander Murray, a former professional footballer, Archie Watson, a personal trainer and fitness coach and Scott Method, Twitch Partner and founder of gaming collective Their reasons for choosing Seneca are strikingly similar: trusted expertise, natural results, and discretion - all backed by a globally recognised brand in medical hair restoration. Seneca Medical Group isn't just another name in the hair transplant industry. It is a pioneer with an unmatched international reputation. With a presence in nine countries including Scotland, Seneca's foundation is built on over three decades of clinical excellence and scientific research in hair loss treatments. The clinic has been honoured with numerous awards, including distinctions in medical tourism, innovation, and quality of care - and combined with a number of delighted high profile clients, these accolades are a reflection of the exceptionally high standards that underpin every procedure. What truly sets Seneca apart is its exclusive use of doctors to perform every hair transplant procedure. Unlike some clinics that delegate the work to technicians, Seneca insists on the highest clinical standards, meaning each treatment is delivered by a trained and certified medical professional. This commitment not only ensures better results but gives patients peace of mind knowing their hair, health, and appearance are in expert hands. In an age of curated images and social media perfection, many influencers are embracing authenticity, sharing their journeys with hair loss - and their decisions to address it. John Robertson, better known as TheEverydayMan online, documented his hair transplant journey on YouTube, highlighting the professional and supportive environment he experienced at Seneca's UK clinic. In his own words, he praised the personalised approach and noted how Seneca's Glasgow clinic made the process convenient and seamless. "From the consultation to the follow-ups, everything was tailored to me. It's easy to see why Seneca is the go-to clinic for so many people like myself," he said. Zander Murray, whose football career placed him in the public eye, also spoke candidly about his experience. He chose Seneca not just for its proven results, but for the discreet, medically-led care. His testimonial underscores the importance of trust and professionalism in such a personal procedure. "I wanted the best — and that's exactly what I got with Seneca," he said. Archie Watson a qualified personal trainer, and Scott Method, an influential figure in gaming and esports, similarly shared their decisions to trust Seneca. For men working in visual and performance-focused industries, a natural-looking hairline and confidence in their appearance are key. Their stories are available to view on Seneca's official YouTube channel at and offer honest insights into both the emotional and physical transformations possible with expert care. No two hair loss journeys are alike and that's something Seneca recognises in every consultation. The clinic provides individualised treatment plans based on thorough diagnosis, taking into account each patient's medical background, lifestyle, and desired results. Every plan is tailored using advanced diagnostic systems and cutting-edge techniques, ensuring the most natural and lasting outcome. Whether a client is experiencing early signs of thinning or more advanced hair loss, Seneca's comprehensive approach - from diagnosis to post-treatment support - ensures they receive the right treatment, at the right time, in the right hands. Seneca offers a range of services, including the Direct FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) method, which involves the direct implantation of individual hair follicles with precision and minimal trauma. The technique is minimally invasive, requiring no scalpel or stitches, and significantly reduces downtime. For Scottish clients, including many influencers living in or travelling to Glasgow, having access to Seneca's world-class services locally is a game-changer. Seneca's Glasgow clinic, located conveniently in the city centre, offers the same high standards found in its European locations, with staff trained to deliver personalised care in a calm, confidential setting. This is not a one-size-fits-all operation. Seneca's local presence means patients don't need to travel abroad or settle for less-than-ideal solutions. Instead, they get cutting-edge hair restoration right here in Scotland, with all the follow-up care and consultation they need. For the influencers and professionals who have undergone treatment at Seneca UK, the results speak for themselves - in their photos, videos, and candid reviews. But beyond aesthetics, it's about something deeper: having confidence restored and control regained. With over 35 years of experience, award-winning service, qualified professionals performing every procedure and a tailored approach for every client, Seneca UK continues to be a leader in medical hair restoration and the clear choice for influencers who demand nothing less than the best. To explore real patient stories and learn more about treatment options at Seneca UK's Glasgow clinic, visit:
