Hornet Bets on Real-World Community Experiences as Dating Apps Face Engagement Fatigue
West Hollywood, CA – June 1, 2026 – As conversations around dating apps increasingly focus on superficial interactions and passive user engagement, Hornet is investing in a different vision for queer social platforms, one that blends digital connection with real-world community experiences.
Following the success of the first Thailand edition in 2025, which attracted more than 1,000 participants, tens of thousands of community votes and concluded with a live finale event in Bangkok, Hornet is now expanding the initiative globally with the return of Model Search Thailand and the launch of the first-ever Model Search Turkey 2026. The Thailand activation also contributed to Hornet reaching all-time-high active user levels in the market.
Designed as an interactive creator and community experience rather than a traditional modeling competition, Hornet Model Search turns users from passive audiences into active participants throughout the experience. Contestants take part in weekly creator challenges, live events, photoshoots and community activities, while the broader Hornet community helps shape the experience through in-app voting and participation.
This year’s expanded program will feature larger live events, appearances from prominent LGBTQ+ community figures, and new opportunities for users to participate both digitally and in person.
“People are looking for more than endless scrolling, swiping, and transactional interactions” said Victor Sevilla, VP of Marketing at Hornet. “They want spaces where they can actively take part, express themselves, and feel connected to something larger than the app itself. Hornet Model Search is designed to create exactly that kind of experience.”
About Hornet
Hornet is the world’s leading queer social platform for gay, bi, trans, and queer men, connecting more than 100 million users worldwide through dating, community, self-expression, and real-world experiences. Press contact: press@hornet.com
