Social benefits at Messe München
Proud Network
Celebrate diversity. Create visibility. Grow together.
Messe brings diversity to life
This was the third time our Proud Network participated in Munich’s CSD. This year’s theme was “Trade fairs bring diversity to life”—promoting visibility, respect, and a genuine sense of community.
This is us—Proud at Messe München
Welcome to the Proud Network at Messe München! Since March 2023, we have been bringing a breath of fresh air to our corporate culture as an internal LGBTQI+ network. Our mission? A workplace that embraces openness, respect, and diversity. Proud is there for all employees—for members of the LGBTQI+ community as well as for our valued straight allies. Together, we are creating a place where everyone is welcome and can freely develop. Be part of this movement and experience how diversity makes us stronger!
Our goals
Networking & Exchange
We offer platforms and events to get in touch and learn from each other.
Support & Advice
We are an open and confidential ear for all concerns relating to LGBTQI+ issues in a professional and private context.
Visibility & Empowerment
We are committed to actively promoting diversity and inclusion in our company.
A look behind the scenes—Proud in action
Experience the diversity and cohesion of our Proud Network! Our impressions show how we live community, share inspiring moments, and shape an inclusive corporate culture at Messe München.
Perspectives that move—voices behind Proud
Our CEOs and co-founders share their visions and explain why an inclusive corporate culture is essential for Messe München.
We are delighted that Messe München has launched the ‘Proud Network’. For us as managing directors, an open corporate culture and a working atmosphere free of fear and discrimination are essential at Messe München. Mutual respect and acceptance in the workplace are more than just a matter close to our hearts—they are a matter of course.
CEOs Dr. Reinhard Pfeiffer and Stefan Rummel
Messe München thrives on encounters. And genuine encounters can only happen where openness is practiced. With Proud, we are creating a space where visibility, exchange, and diversity have a firm place. A network like this was the next step—driven by the desire to send a clear signal.
Patrick Keller, co-founder
When the idea of establishing an LGBTQI+ network within the company came up, my first intuition was to create a space for visibility where people could share their experiences, find support, and learn about the needs and challenges of LGBTIQ+ people.
Sandra Merz, co-founder
As a founding member of Messe München's LGBTQI+ network Proud, it is important to me to promote the visibility and rights of the LGBTQI+ community externally and to create internal opportunities for all people who need advice and support on LGBTQI+ issues.
Christian Grodau, co-founder
Why an LGBTQI+ network?
Trade fairs thrive on diversity—and our workforce is just as colorful. Studies show that between 5 and 10 percent of people identify as part of the LGBTQI+ community. At Messe München, we want to offer these colleagues an environment where they can be themselves authentically and without fear of discrimination.
Our formats and offerings
To promote encounters and exchange, we offer:
- Lunch table
A bi-monthly get-together in our canteen, where everyone is welcome. - External regulars' table
A regular dinner in a relaxed atmosphere, which takes place outside Messe München and offers a safe space for employees who are not out. - Confidential point of contact
Our network is open to anyone who would like to discuss LGBTQI+ issues in a protected environment. - MS Teams channel
Here we network, share dates, and can exchange ideas digitally. - Regular participation in events
(e.g., CSD in Munich or meetings with other queer company networks)
How to reach us
We cordially invite all employees to become part of the Proud Network.
Would you like to get to know us, take part in one of our events or ask us questions?
Write us an e-mail and get in touch with us: proud@messe-muenchen.de
Further links
Diversity Charter—For diversity in the workplace
Queer offerings in Bavaria