LGBTIQ+ List 2026:
Paul Schäfer | Freelance

"Representation matters because it creates role models, opens pathways, and signals to the next generation that there is space"

By IQ | 12 June 2026

[he/him] Freelancer, event operations Berlin, DE www.linkedIn.com/in/paul-schaefer437 Tell us about the professional achievement you’re most PROUD of in 2026 so far. Creating inclusive live spaces where people truly feel they belong.

[he/him]
Freelancer, event operations
Berlin, DE
www.linkedIn.com/in/paul-schaefer437

Tell us about the professional achievement you’re most PROUD of in 2026 so far.
Creating inclusive live spaces where people truly feel they belong. This season, I am proud to be contributing…

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LGBTIQ+ LIST 2026:

Sandra Schweizer

Gadget Entertainment AG

"Being surrounded by so many people actively shaping the business was genuinely inspiring and gave me a stronger sense of perspective"

Steve Berry

Stagetruck Ltd

"I do what I do because I want everyone who comes to work with us to feel welcome, included, and part of something they’re proud of"

Bihter Çetinyol

Charmenko

"The industry in Türkiye is small; you can only work for corporations, governmental corporations, municipalities, and private companies"

Antonia Lines

LIVE Trust

"We're working in collaboration with the live sector to fix long-term problems and create a better future for everyone"

Peter Allott-Fletcher

AEG Presents

"Everything has become more expensive, and often unpredictably so – global events have an almost immediate impact"

Jyn Paul

DICE

"Equitable access to tickets remains the biggest challenge the industry faces in keeping fans motivated and artists connected"

Thiago Nakano

30e

"In Brazil, where music is such a strong part of people’s identities, tours can become real cultural moments"

Mary Allen

UTA

"We’re navigating a significant level of touring oversaturation alongside growing price resistance"

Harry Wilding

Festival Republic / Kelham Pride / ILMC

"I plan to help grow [Kelham Pride] year on year, while keeping it free and accessible to the community"

Shorlette Ammons

Farm Aid

"The same handful of corporations controlling food systems are often shaping culture and access in entertainment, too"

Ethan-James Luke

Legends Global

"The audiences are diverse, the talent is diverse, so the people shaping the industry should reflect that, too"

Mica Sefia

Black Lives in Music

"As a Black, queer, neurodivergent woman, my identity informs everything I do, whether intentionally or not"

Toby Corton

Mighty Hoopla / Sounds Queer / State is Flow

"Pay artists fairly, regulate, and redistribute profits in favour of the people who, without their work, the 'music industry' would just be 'industry'"

Bruno Sérgio Gomes

Opus Entretenimento

"Demand is huge, but production costs, routing, and ticket affordability are putting a lot of pressure on the middle of the market"

Małgorzata Staniszewska

Alter Art

"When we prioritise fair treatment, economic security, and a safe, respectful environment, we create an industry where talent can thrive"

Kat Winfield

CAA

"It’s not just about representation on paper; it’s about creating an environment where people genuinely feel supported"

Mariano Otero

Fever / DICE

"The ticketing industry is entering a period of increased scrutiny and regulatory change, which is both necessary and overdue"

Pol Mitchell

Soft Serve Management

"There’s been a real backslide in lineup diversity in mainstream events, which is a signal of bigger economic and systemic disruption"

Erik Kammerer

Live Nation

"We need to slow down, pause, and identify those who will challenge industry norms while also honouring legacies"

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