In an age where it seems society has misplaced the virtues of character, intelligence and genuine regard for others, it feels as if the gentlemanly values of substance and style have all but vanished. Steadfast in the belief that the modern gentleman is not an endangered species and it is his ideas that will make a difference, Ketel One is teaming up with GQ to lure today's genuine and honorable men out of the shadows to showcase their game-changing ideas with "A Gentleman's Call: In Pursuit of an Idea that Matters."
A Gentleman's Call is a nationwide search to invest behind one original idea that champions the lifestyle of the modern gentleman. Beginning May 14, 2012, hopeful participants can answer the call by visiting www.AGentlemansCall.com to present an idea, inspiration or endeavor that will raise society's behavioral bar. The campaign is rooted in the entrepreneurial spirit the Nolet family has maintained for 11 generations. Mirroring the ideals of family who built the Ketel One brand one bar at a time, successful projects will substantially exhibit the values of entrepreneurship, craftsmanship or philanthropy in the modern world and prove that gentlemanly manner is not a lost art.
"Ketel One Vodka was founded through the passion and drive ignited only from entrepreneurial spirit," said Carl Nolet, Jr., Executive Vice President of Nolet Spirits USA. "Through 'A Gentleman's Call,' it is our honor to nurture an idea that will grow from the same values we continue applauding and responsibly celebrating after 11 generations of success."
Following the close of entries on July 29, 2012, five projects best exemplifying a higher standard of thinking and living will be selected. Consumers across the country will determine which idea best personifies a class act while inspiring generations of gentlemen to put the right polished shoe forward. Once votes are tallied, a Grand Prize Winner will be announced and Ketel One will invest $100,000 to turn their idea into a reality.
To lead this nationwide call-to-action, Ketel One and GQ have enlisted the mentorship of three men that embody the essence of a modern gentleman. These cultural counselors will set the behavioral standard and guide the masses by defining the values of the ultimate gentleman's competition through their day-to-day lives. Mentors will include actor and philanthropist, Ian Somerhalder, renowned actor, Carlos Ponce, and Co-Founder and CEO of the Movember Foundation, Adam Garone."The best thing you can aspire to be is a gentleman. The idea of a gentleman is one of awareness, confidence and compassion," said Ian Somerhalder. "Helping to support an initiative that is based on those ideals is an honor and I look forward to seeing the evolution of this quest reach its full potential."
"My fellow mentors and I are honored to lead 'A Gentleman's Call,'" said Adam Garone. "It is a privilege and a true responsibility to guide the next generation of entrepreneurs and help foster an endeavor that will enlighten society's appreciation for the modern gentleman." If you have an idea worthy of the call, visit www.AGentlemansCall.com for complete contest rules and to submit a project.
