During EuroPride Valletta 2023, individuals who have distinguished themselves in Malta and other countries in various fields by promoting the civil rights of the LGBTIQ+ community and providing exceptional service to individuals with diverse sexual orientations will be honoured.
Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms and Equality Rebecca Buttigieg announced during the Mvintage Pride Awards that the public will have the opportunity to choose the winner of the "People's Choice Award," among three nominees.
Public voting will commence on 29 August and will conclude a few days before the award winners are announced on 12 September at the Pride Village.
The Pride Village will take place in Triton Square in Valletta and will host numerous EuroPride activities between September 7th and 17th.
Buttigieg said that the jury will select winners in seven other categories, including awards like "Transcendence in Artistry," which honours individuals who have contributed to the LGBTIQ+ cause through various forms of art.
She said that these awards are tokens of recognition and appreciation for the work of individuals who go above and beyond what is normally expected of them to foster respect, acceptance, dignity, and love among LGBTIQ+ individuals.
The seven categories include, among others, "Influence and Impact," which will acknowledge individuals who have conveyed positive messages in this field.
The "Equality in Healthcare" award will recognize the work of professionals in the medical field. The "Unconditional Love of a Parent" award will honour parents who have shown the greatest love and support towards their LGBTIQ+ children.
The "Courage in Sports" award will celebrate sportspeople, and the "Excellence in LGBTIQ+ Representation Worldwide" award will highlight global representation efforts.
The "Lifetime Achievement Award" will be granted to someone who has dedicated their career to promoting equality.
President of the Allied Rainbow Communities Maria Azzopardi expressed satisfaction with the Mvintage Pride Awards, highlighting how they serve as an opportunity to recognize those who have made a difference in the pursuit of LGBTIQ+ rights.
Azzopardi said that The Allied Rainbow Communities (ARC) is pleased to organize these awards in partnership with Mvintage, showcasing the resilience, unity, and love within the community.
Representative of Mvintage Krystle Penza said that the company believes in celebrating everyone's true colours, stating that Pride is an important way to celebrate diversity, including diversity within the LGBTIQ+ community.
To participate in the nominations, interested individuals can visit: www.europride2023.mt/event/the-mvintage-pride-awards