We are proud to share that Matthias Weber, Chairman of the European Pride Business Network, has been awarded the 2024 Impact of Diversity Award in the category Contribution to LGBTQIA+. This powerful recognition celebrates his nearly two decades of work in building visibility, connection, and change for LGBTQIA+ professionals across Europe.

The award was presented by Pavlo Stroblja of Queermentor gGmbH, who delivered a moving tribute to Matthias’s enduring commitment to inclusion, equity, and the power of visibility.

“There is a kind of belonging that comes with a price… But true inclusion doesn’t ask us to disappear. It invites us to take up space – exactly as we are,” the speech began.

“That’s why this award matters. Because it honors those who don’t just represent change – but build and maintain the conditions for it. Matthias Weber is one of those people.”

For nearly 20 years, Matthias has worked at the intersection of activism and leadership. Through the European Pride Business Network, he has helped shape a European-wide platform that connects LGBTQIA+ professionals across borders, sectors, and leadership levels—not just to integrate into the existing structures, but to transform them.

The tribute continued:

“Because equity means little if it doesn’t come with sharing power. And diversity means nothing if it’s only celebrated when it’s convenient. Today, when queer rights are under threat again – this kind of integrity becomes more than meaningful. It becomes the ground we stand on.”

Receiving the award, Matthias shared:

“This award means a lot – not just for me, but for everyone who dares to be visible and create space for others, and especially for EPBN and all our activists.”

We at EPBN wholeheartedly agree. This recognition not only celebrates Matthias’s personal journey and accomplishments, but also shines a light on the collective movement he represents. Under his leadership, EPBN continues to champion workplace inclusion, cross-sector dialogue, and policy action—across 21 countries and 22 member organisations.

In a time when LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility face growing threats in Europe and globally, this award reminds us of the power of persistence, community, and leadership grounded in purpose.

Congratulations, Matthias — and thank you for showing us how visibility becomes impact.