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When I was just 10, I discovered a story in my local paper about the Air Guitar World Championships, that happens every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My family had participated at the inaugural contest starting from 1996 – my mother distributed flyers, dad managed the music. Since then, domestic competitions have been held all across the world, with the winners assembling in Oulu annually.

Initially, I requested permission if I could compete. They weren't sure at first; the competition was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They thought it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was set on it.

During childhood, I was always miming air guitar, pretending to play to the biggest rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. Mom and Dad were music fans – dad loved The Boss and U2. AC/DC was the first band I stumbled upon myself. Angus Young, the guitar hero, was my idol.

When I stepped on stage, I played my set to the band's Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started chanting “Angus”, similar to the concert version, and it hit me: this is what it feels like to be a guitar hero. I advanced to the last round, performing to crowds in the public plaza, and I was captivated. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a judge one year, and kicked off the show another time, but I stayed out of the contest. I came back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and make “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve made it to the final each competition since then, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was set to win this year.

Our global network is like a support system. Our motto is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It sounds silly, but it’s a true ethos.

The contest is competitive but uplifting. Contestants have 60 seconds to put their all – explosive energy, flawless imitation, stage magnetism – on an imaginary instrument. Judges score you on a point range from four to six. When it's a draw, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the final two contestants: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I chose an a metal group song for my act. I had it on repeat for a long time. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my lower body flexible enough to jump, my hands nimble enough to mimic solos and my spine prepared for those gestures and hops. Once the event came, I could feel the song in my being.

Once all acts were done, the scores came in, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was occasion for an tiebreaker. We competed directly to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the iconic band. When I heard the song, I felt at ease because it was familiar to me, and above all I was so excited to have another go. When they announced I’d triumphed, the square erupted.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from the excitement. Then the crowd started chanting the song the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and hoisted me on to their backs. A former champion – also known as his performer title – a former champion and one of my dear companions, was hugging me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar international titleholder in a quarter-century. The earlier winner from Finland, the former champion, was also present. He bestowed upon me the biggest hug and said it was “finally happening”.

Our global network is like a family. The phrase we live by is “Make air, not war”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a real philosophy. Participants come from all over the world, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. Before you go on stage, every competitor shows support. Then for one minute you’re allowed to be free, humorous, the top performer in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and guitarist in a group with my brother called the Southgates, referencing the sports figure, as we’re fans of Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a few years now, and I create mini movies and performance clips. The title hasn’t changed my day-to-day life significantly but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I aspire it results in more creative work. Oulu will be a European capital of culture soon, so there are promising opportunities.

At present, I’m just thankful: for the group, for the opportunity to play, and for that little kid who found a story and thought, “I'd love to try that.”