Making their glittering return to Melbourne’s Plaza Ballroom, the 2022 Victorian Pride Awards (previously the GLOBE Community Awards) kicked off on the evening of the 3rd of February, 2023.
While last year’s event was surrounded by the excitement of the Victorian State Government’s newly-released LGBTIQ+ strategy, Pride in Our Future, this year’s celebrations highlight the progress that’s been made since and the continuing commitment to working towards LGBTIQ+ recognition and inclusion.
In a statement, the Hon. Harriet Shing, Minister for Equality, acknowledged this progress.
“The progress we’ve made towards creating a safer, more inclusive Victoria has, in large part, come about through the efforts of each and every person in attendance at the Victorian Pride Awards, and many who are not able to be here.”
Jobsbank was thrilled to be a part of the event once again, sponsoring the ‘Outstanding Advocacy’ award. Awarded to an organisation who runs advocacy and/or social change campaigns to shift attitudes, beliefs and behaviours, through systems, processes and programs that benefit LGBTIQ+ communities.
This award sits alongside many others presented on the night, recognising the achievements of those in the Arts, sports, media, small business, allyship, health and wellbeing and more. Finalists for each of the awards were in attendance, creating a buzz in the room from people who are leading revolutionary initiatives.
Dr Karina Davis (CEO, Jobsbank) presented the award alongside GLOBE Victoria’s Jen Elmer, recognising the other incredible nominees – Euphoria Social and HIV Legal Working Group (HLWG) – before announcing The Wimmera Pride Project as the winner.
The Wimmera Pride Project is grassroots, volunteer organisation led by local residents, dedicated to supporting and enriching the lives of LGBTQIA+ people and allies in the Wimmera area of central west Victoria. The Project has been successful in undertaking advocacy and provides knowledge, resources and education on LGBTQIA+ issues within a foundation of inclusivity and safety.
Loucas Vettos, Maddi Ostapiw, Patrick Quaine and Scott Robinson came to the stage decked out in sequins, accepting the award with boundless humility.
“This is not an award for The Wimmera Pride Project alone,” Patrick said as he took to the microphone. “This is an award for the people who helped us to run this event – that’s Art for action, that’s the Limestone Coast Connect, that’s the pub in a little town called Edenhope, Victoria that allowed us to put on an event. It’s for every single person in that community who put a rainbow flag out the front of their mailbox, in defiance of that bigoted Mayor’s comments.
“It’s just so humbling to be here and to celebrate how wonderful and inclusive every part of Victoria is.”
Loucas also had a word of wisdom to fellow advocates: “People who advocate for other people usually are the loudest voice in the room or help out, but please take that time to look out for yourself, because sometimes to impact is harder on you than it is on others, so look out for yourselves as much as you do for other people, please.”
A big congratulations to every nominee and winner for being part of creating a truly inclusive and diverse future.
Watch the video of the 2022 Victorian Pride Awards
Head to the GLOBE website for more information and the full list of winners.
About Jobsbank
At Jobsbank we are passionate about inclusion and the difference it makes – not just to one person, but to teams and whole organisations. We believe in an Australia where everybody belongs. That’s why we’re helping to build more inclusive workplaces one business at time. Whether you have specific focus areas or you’re looking to achieve transformational change – our services are tailored to meet your specific needs and provides you with the insights and tools to deliver sustainable solutions.
About GLOBE
Originally known as the Gay and Lesbian Organisation of Business and Enterprise, for over 30 years GLOBE has reflected the diverse communities it represents within the rainbow alphabet and across all of Victoria. GLOBE enables connection and learning for individuals and businesses over a range of events, and through its community grants program, has donated more than $140,000 to worthy individuals, students, charitable organisations and small businesses since 2014. The grants are funded through the Victorian Pride Awards (previously the GLOBE Community Awards,) which celebrate the wonderful work of LGBTIQA+ individuals and programs across Victoria.
Photo: (L-R) Globe Marketing & Comms Director Jen Elmer, Jobsbank CEO Karina Davis with the Wimmera Pride Project team – Maddi Ostapiw, Loucas Vettos, Patrick Quaine and Scott Robinson, at the Victorian Globe Awards.
