2025 Judges
Q. – International Ms. Bootblack 2008
A self-identified queer, ethically non-monogamous/polyamorous, leather boi, Q has presented on various topics both here and abroad. A social justice activist for over 20 years and certified sex educator, he is passionate about bringing together the various communities he is a part of through education, speaking engagements, intimacy coaching, and sex work.
This charming and flirtatious southern boi resides in Oakland, CA, and is always on the lookout for new adventures. Q first encountered bootblacking while attending his very first leather event, Together in Leather in 2005. His next exposure to bootblacking at Frolicon 2006 started Q on his journey to learn more about this art. Q is honored to hold the titles of International Ms Bootblack 2008 and Southeast Leatherfest Bootblack 2007.
In service to his community, Q has presented and/or judged at a number of community events including Southwest Leather Conference, International Leather Sir/boy/Community Bootblack, Great Lakes Leather Alliance, Toronto Leather Pride, Dark Odyssey Winter Fire, Mr/Ms New Jersey Leather, Black Rose, International Ms Leather/International Ms Bootblack, and Northern California Community Bootblack.
Serafine – Ms. San Diego Leather 2019
Serafine Sawyer (She/Her) Ms. San Diego Leather 2019 – A Dominant leather trans-woman. She was a San Diego Girls of Leather and Southland Title Sisters member. She has judged West Coast Olympus, Mr. Barracks, and the San Diego Cub contest and has taught at Leather Realm and Ravage. For her year as a title holder, she is focusing on Helping Kids in Crisis, as too many LGBTQ+ kids are having to focus on survival rather than on growing up.
Although she started this journey later in life, the support and acceptance she’s received from the leather community is why she has worked so hard to give back. She’s incredibly grateful for her two tile husbands – Jody and Pup Rowdy, for their support and dedication throughout their title year.
Pup Rowdy – San Diego Bootblack 2019
Pup Rowdy(he/him), the ultimate corgi boyfriend, has been a vibrant force in the San Diego Leather Community since 2011. Rowdy embodies the spirit of a Leather Pup, Bootblack & Daddy by being loyal, hardworking, playful & affectionate. He Co-founded San Diego Pets & Handlers in 2014 to create a safe space for folks of all genders and orientations to explore pet roleplay. Rowdy proudly holds the title of San Diego Bootblack 2019+ and is an active mentor to local aspiring bootblacks.
Doriam Couto – Mr. San Diego Leather 2018
boy Doriam is a Leatherman who’s been engaged as an activist and educator in his local community since 2015. As Mr. San Diego Leather 2018, Doriam’s platform, #LetsWalkTogether, advocated for People of Color, Leatherwomen, Transfolks, and anyone who felt alone because of something they had no control over.
In 2019 he was awarded “Man of the Year” during the SD Leather Community Awards, and has earned his Orange Service Hanky as a volunteer for International Ms. Leather & Bootblack in 2018 and 2019. Volunteerism and an willingness to learn and share stories, history, and knowledge are all important parts of Doriam’s personal Leather Path which he tries to instill in his family and community.
In Service, Doriam Couto #LetsWalkTogether
Doriam is also on volunteer staff as the Hospitality Coordinator.
Jody Mitchell – Mr. San Diego Leather 2019
Jody Mitchell was born and raised in rural Nebraska. His fascination with bondage and gear came at an early age, and has only grown with time. Jody identifies in part a patchwork of submissive, bottom, boy, pup, primal animal. He also enjoys expressing the dominant side of his BDSM personality. His primary kink and fetish interests are those of ‘head space’ kink like power exchange, objectification, and humiliation. As an artist he explores self expression from the occult to the erotic. Jody is an avid horror and science fiction fan. He enjoys RPG and board games. Jody believes in the important concepts of a leather life: truth, honor, respect and integrity. He believes in making a positive impact in the world and giving back to his community. Jody has served as Mr San Diego Leather in 2019 and Mr San Diego Eagle in 2018, and is the President of The Leather Boys of San Diego. Speaking of our common struggles and the need for unity in these uncertain times, Jody urges solidarity with our people and allies, regardless of where we are within the many categories that are meant to divide and pit us against each other and to be mindful to never punch down or sideways, but to punch up… for that is the source of our collective woes.
Eli Correa – Mr. San Diego Leather 2013
After serving 8 years in the United States Army, Eli decided to move to sunny San Diego in 2011. Once he was settled in, he decided to show off his skills and won Mr. San Diego Eagle in 2012. And guess what? He didn’t stop there! He went on to win Mr. San Diego Leather in 2013. Eli is not just about winning titles; he’s also about giving back to the community. He’s been raising funds for local non-profits, helping small businesses, organizing events, and creating a safe space for people to come together. This all comes through his passion for deejaying and managing at AWOL. Being the manager and bartender at AWOL has given him all the skills and experiences he needs to grow and learn every day. And let’s not forget about his deejaying! It’s not just a job for Eli; it’s a way of life. He finds joy in seeing others happy and making a positive impact through his music. Eli is so honored to be part of the San Diego Bootblack and Leather contest. Let’s have fun and connect as a community.
Sereana – Community Judge
Sereana stumbled her way into the kink/BDSM community, starry eyed and filled with curiosity. She quickly understood the value in supporting the community and became an avid volunteer. Further expansion of personal perspective has been obtained through personal experiences, community service, and interstate travel. Commitments include putting energy into sharing kinky experiences and curated information to curious folx as an activist, panelist and moderator.
Currently, she can be found living an unapologetic life – connecting with like minds in the community, Coordinating Leather Realm volunteers, and spreading H.E.L.P. wherever and whenever she can.