The Queer Gala 2025 lit up Helsinki with queer talent, art, activism, and community power.
A Night That Felt Like a StatementSome events entertain. Others matter.
©Vilma Lepistö
The fifth edition of The Queer Gala was not just another award night — it was a powerful reminder of what happens when a community comes together with intention, creativity, and care.
Hosted at Korjaamo Helsinki, the Gala unfolded as a vibrant manifesto of queer talent, resilience, and collective pride. From the first moment to the final applause, the atmosphere was charged with something deeper than glamour: belonging.
This night existed because of volunteers, organizers, artists, researchers, creators, and community members who believe that queer stories deserve to be celebrated loudly and unapologetically. And that alone deserves recognition.
“The Queer Gala is not just an event — it’s a community decision.”
Why The Queer Gala Matters
What makes The Queer Gala truly special is simple — and radical.
The nominations come from the queer community itself, and the winners are decided through public vote. Thousands of people across Finland participate every year, turning the Gala into a collective act of visibility.
This is recognition from us, to us.
©Vilma Lepistö
It honors creators, activists, artists, researchers, organizations, and storytellers who have uplifted queer lives, challenged norms, and pushed conversations forward throughout the year.
As queer media, talking about these spaces is not optional — it’s a responsibility. Visibility is not passive. It requires commitment, presence, and support.
And yes, supporting queer media is crucial if we want these stories to keep being told.
A Stage Full of Talent and Pride
Pictures by ©VilmaLepistöThe night itself felt like a living collage of queer expression.
From music to performance, from literature to activism, the stage at Korjaamo reflected the depth and diversity of queer creativity in 2025. The energy was electric, intimate, and powerful — the kind that reminds you why representation still matters.
©Helmi Hukkanen
“This was not about trophies. It was about being seen.”
Adding to the magic were this year’s hosts, who shone with charisma, talent, and undeniable presence, guiding the night with warmth and confidence.
The performances and Queer owned small business and crafts alley brought boldness and beauty to the stage and outside.
Pictures ©VilmaLepistöEach act added another layer to a night already rich with meaning.
The Queer Gala 2025 — Winners
Here are the incredible winners who shaped queer culture, thought, and creativity in 2025:
Queer Act of the Year: Bar Utopia
Queer Artist of the Year: Aleksi Kolmonen
Queer Media of the Year: WLW Media
Queer Specialist of the Year: Mika Salakka
Queer Performance of the Year: Kuningatarnäytelmä
Queer Movie or TV of the Year: Sun sam rakastaa
Queer Activist of the Year: Pert Jussila
Queer Musician of the Year: Asia Jo
Queer Organization of the Year: Trans Library Helsinki
Queer Athletes of the Year: Emma Aalto & Millie Colling
Queer Song of the Year: Asia Jo – Pussailen tyttöjen kaa
Queer Non-Fiction Book of the Year:
Heidi Airaksinen & Tiina Tuppurainen – Salatun rakkauden historiaQueer Fiction of the Year: Annukka Salama – Sulamispiste
Queer Values Progressing Teacher / Faculty Member of the Year:
Mikko Nisukangas (Koulukuraattori)Queer Research of the Year: Garo Juvonen & Sini Åström
Huge congratulations to every single winner — and heartfelt thanks to all nominees for shaping queer culture with courage and creativity.
Honorable Mentions: Spotlighting Impact
Each year at the Gala, honorable mentions are awarded in a limited number of categories. They are also based on the public vote and recognize individuals or organizations whose work has been exceptionally significant, moving, or especially relevant during that year.
Additional Honorable Mentions:
Queer Artist of the Year: Onur Tayrannogly
Queer Fiction of the Year: Cristal Snow – Penni Pähkinäsydän series
Queer Non-Fiction of the Year: Lilat Zine
“Recognition is also about making space for voices that deserve to be amplified.”
Why Queer Media Must Show Up
At Queerland Media, we believe visibility is not a trend — it’s a long-term commitment.
Covering events like The Queer Gala is part of our responsibility as queer media: to amplify, document, and celebrate the work that shapes our communities. Supporting queer platforms means supporting queer futures.
If you value spaces like this Gala, supporting independent queer media is essential.
Be Part of the Story
Know a story, creator, initiative, or piece of representation you want to see covered?
📩 Write to us at: hello@queerlandmedia.com
🌐 Visit: queerlandmedia.com
🔗 Find us on Instagram via our bio.site
Because queer stories deserve to be told — and told well.
