Role Models as agents of change
Role models play a crucial role in shaping inclusive workplaces where everyone, regardless of identity, feels valued and respected. For LGBTIQ+ employees, visibility matters—a lot. Seeing individuals who authentically represent their identity succeed in the workplace fosters confidence, builds community, and challenges stereotypes.
A strong role model doesn’t just inspire; they lead by example. They show that diversity is not only accepted but celebrated, and they prove that authenticity and professional success can coexist. In workplaces striving for inclusion, role models become catalysts for meaningful cultural change.
Our EPBN – WISE Role Models are always recognized as Role Models at the national level. This means that all EPBN-member organizations that are interested in encouraging these individuals in their local countries, must carry out their own initiatives at the local level first. Some of our EPBN-member organizations (such as EDGE, Network, VK, Pride Biz Austria, and more) have carried out this type of initiative for the very first time. Below you will find some of the national Role Model ceremonies that have been carried out during 2025.
National Role Models ceremonies in Switzerland and Italy.
Role Models and the EPBN WISE Initiative
The EPBN WISE (Workplace Inclusion for a Sustainable Europe) initiative places role models at the heart of its mission. By spotlighting inspiring LGBTIQ+ professionals and allies, EPBN WISE aims to create a culture of workplace inclusion across Europe.
Key actions of the EPBN WISE initiative include:
- National Role Model ceremonies: EPBN member organizations host ceremonies to honor local role models, selecting up to 15 individuals per country.
- European Role Model Awards Ceremony: National role models are nominated for the prestigious European awards, celebrating their leadership and contributions at a continental level.
- Promoting visibility: Through campaigns and events, EPBN WISE ensures these stories of courage and success inspire workplaces far beyond their own organizations.
“Role models are essential to achieving our vision of workplace equality,” says Matthias Weber, EPBN Chairman. “They lead the way in demonstrating that inclusion drives success.”
The Role Model Awards Ceremony: A celebration of inclusion
The EPBN – WISE Role Models Awards Ceremony is the pinnacle of this initiative. It recognizes the outstanding contributions of LGBTIQ+ individuals and allies who are transforming workplaces. By honoring their achievements, EPBN not only celebrates progress but also inspires the next generation of leaders to champion inclusion. The 2025 edition of the EPBN – WISE Role Models ceremony took place in the Copernicus Centre in Warsaw, Poland, on May 9th, 2025. 25 EPBN – WISE Role Models were recognized during the ceremony.
The path Forward
Role models are much more than inspirational figures. they are leaders driving change, fostering safe environments, and proving that inclusion is key to organizational success. Through initiatives like WISE, EPBN is proud to celebrate and amplify their impact, ensuring that workplaces across Europe become true spaces of equality and belonging. Stay tuned as we spotlight these exceptional individuals and share their stories of courage and transformation. Together, we can shape a more inclusive future. We also invite everyone to look forward to the next edition of our EPBN – WISE Role Models ceremony, which will take place in Prague, Czechia, on May 29th, 2026.
