Empowering New Queer Voices in Journalism

Hi, my name is Mateusz Grzegorz Sobiesiak and I’m an LGBTIQA+ & Neurodiversity Advocate working in the IT technology sector who already for years is working locally on raising awareness of the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the workplace.

Together with editor-in-chief Răzvan Ion, we're part of the GAY45, a European indie queer journal celebrating the power of queer creativity and freedom. This year GAY45.eu has reached a milestone with almost 140,000 monthly readers, which is fantastic! Thank you for trusting us and reading our articles.

We need your support to fund the GAY45 Queer Journalism Campus (QJC), a unique initiative to foster the growth of young European queer writers. We are passionate about creating a platform where talented individuals can develop their journalistic skills, tackle important societal issues, and amplify the voices of the LGBTQ+ community. However, we need your support to continue providing this invaluable opportunity for aspiring journalists. Join us in our mission to empower the next generation of queer storytellers!

Our Vision:

In today's world, the lack of journalists within the queer micro-society poses a significant challenge for publishers striving to provide high-quality press coverage. At GAY45 QJC, we believe in the birth of a new type of journalism that maintains the integrity and consistency of writing while engaging the young Queer Community. We work with a very talented and very young team, the average age being 24 y.o. all having an M.A. or being students in the top universities like Cambridge, Oxford or Utrecht.

International Participation:

In previous editions, our program has attracted international participants from Germany, Ireland, Spain, Taiwan, the Philippines, Ukraine, Romania, Poland, and Austria. These young writers have the privilege of learning from experienced mentors who are famous journalists hailing from renowned publications in Europe and the USA like The New York Times, New Yorker, Der Standard, Die Welt, Süddeutsche Zeitung, as well as writers from queer magazines.

Impact and Success Stories:

Previous participants of the GAY45 journalism campus have achieved remarkable success in their careers. Many have secured positions in prestigious publishing houses, magazines, and newspapers. Others have embarked on fulfilling freelance careers as editors and writers or pursued advanced studies in journalism. By supporting our cause, you contribute to the growth and development of these talented individuals, who go on to shape the future of queer journalism. As proof of the team's success and potential of the campus GAY45 senior editor Ciprian Ciobanu is a nominee for "Forbes 30 under 30 Europe Media" and Miruna Tiberiu, the managing editor, is the first long-listed openly queer woman for the International News Media Association (INMA)’s “30 Under 30” Award.

Our Mission:

At GAY45 QJC, we strive to mould journalists who produce exceptional stories that address critical cultural and social issues and write in a new remarkable style. We encourage the use of diverse dissemination methods, including traditional platforms, digital media, social media, and even emerging technologies like artificial intelligence for research purposes. Additionally, we inspire participants to create their own platforms such as blogs, video blogs, and metaverse spaces, or to work as journalists in media outlets that champion human rights and uphold the highest standards of LGBTQ+ community reporting.

The Next Edition in Vienna:

This year, we are excited to organize the GAY45 QJC from 31st August to 4th September 2023, in the beautiful city of Vienna. The insightful articles produced during this edition will be published on our website, GAY45 Queer Journal, as well as other relevant platforms. We aim to create a lasting impact by bringing together talented writers in an inspiring setting and facilitating meaningful connections within the journalism community.

Participation and Expenses:

To ensure the quality and individual attention given to each participant, we limit the number of participants. However, we aim to raise additional funds to increase the number of participants in the future, allowing more aspiring journalists to benefit from this transformative experience. All expenses for the participants, including flights, accommodation, participation, and sustenance, are fully covered by the organizers.

Nonprofit Organization (NPO) Status and Tax Deductibility:

GAY45 is a registered nonprofit organization (NPO). As an NPO, we are dedicated to serving the community and advancing the cause of queer journalism. This means that all donations made to our organization are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law.

By supporting the GAY45 QJC, not only are you investing in the future of young queer writers, but you are also making a tangible difference in the realm of journalism and LGBTQ+ representation. Your generous contributions enable us to continue providing fully funded opportunities for aspiring journalists to attend our campus, covering their expenses such as flights, accommodation, participation, and sustenance.

Moreover, the tax-deductible nature of your donation allows you to maximize the impact of your contribution. By taking advantage of this opportunity, you can support a worthy cause and benefit from potential tax savings.

We will provide official donation receipts for all contributions, ensuring that you have the necessary documentation for tax purposes. Please consult with your tax advisor or financial professional for specific information on tax deductions and how they apply to your circumstances.

Our editorial office is currently comprised of 11 people who put their heart and soul into this initiative, and due to financial constraints need your support.

Join us in building a stronger, more inclusive journalism community and empowering the voices of young queer writers. Donate today and take advantage of the tax benefits while making a meaningful impact in the world of queer journalism.

More information about the initiative you can find here: https://gay45.eu/journalism-campus/

Gay45 Mission statement & Team:

https://gay45.eu/mission-statement/