As the UK gears up to host World Pride 2012, it's time for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community to shout about what they've achieved. So welcome to the World Pride Power List 2012, spanning the worlds of business, politics, arts and entertainment.
Homosexuality remains illegal in more than 70 countries, with penalties ranging from imprisonment to death. That's why it's so important to build a platform and celebrate those who are out, proud and successful now.
"Young people today are the first generation to have gay people in the public domain as role models," says Ben Summerskill, chief executive of Stonewall and one of the judges. "Drawing attention to these role models matters." The other judges were: Michael Fuller, managing director, UnitedHealth UK; Linda Riley, managing director of Square Peg Media; and Cuc Vu, chief diversity officer, the Human Rights Campaign. To get to the final 100, the judges used a number of criteria, including influence, contribution and the impact of the nominees' work over the past year.
The list is one of extraordinary variety, but there's a single message behind it. Summerskill sums it up: "If you are young and gay, realise this: there is no reason to ever underestimate your potential."
Commissioning editor Steve McGrath
Supervising editor for GNM Pas Paschali
(pas.paschali@guardian.co.uk)
Cover illustration Ciara Phelan
Produced for Guardian Business & Professional by Seven Plus to a brief agreed with Square Peg Media
Paid for by Square Peg Media
Contact Claire Sadler on 020-3353 2077
(claire.sadler@guardian.co.uk)
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