On October 15th, 2025, the glittering halls of the Vienna Hofburg will once again pulse with elegance, ambition, and creative energy, as the Vienna Awards mark their 15th anniversary. More than a gala, this is a cultural moment — a stage for excellence, a meeting point for visionaries, and a celebration of artistry that transcends borders.
Since their founding in 2009, the Vienna Awards have championed talent that not only shapes industries but also inspires entire generations. This milestone year comes with a powerful statement: 2025 belongs to women. “We celebrate personalities who shape their fields with talent, attitude, and vision — and inspire far beyond them,” says founder and CEO Marjan Firouz.
The evening will be guided by the poise and charisma of TV presenter Frauke Ludowig, as a roster of honorees and guests transforms the Hofburg into the epicenter of fashion, art, and entertainment.
Among this year’s award recipients:
- Serena Goldenbaum, the celebrated hair and make-up artist behind the looks of international stars, receives Hair & Make-up Artist of the Year.
- Leony, one of Europe’s most-streamed pop artists, is honored as Music Idol of the Year and will take the stage with a live performance.
- Elisabeth Gürtler, the embodiment of Austrian elegance, is named Austria Style Icon of the Year.
- Patricia Kaiser, former Miss Austria turned entrepreneur and TV personality, is honored for her multifaceted career.
- Stephanie Davis, digital entrepreneur and lifestyle leader, is recognized for her trailblazing presence in the online and business worlds.
- Luise Reichert, whose modern lens and editorial vision have made her one of fashion’s most in-demand photographers, receives Photographer of the Year.
- Kilian Kerner, the internationally celebrated fashion designer, will present 15 of his favorite past looks live on stage as he accepts International Fashion Designer of the Year.
The night will also spotlight rising and established personalities alike: Rúrik Gíslason, honored as Acting Shootingstar of the Year, will share the stage with director Christopher Doll; Sylvie Meis returns as a presenter; and Berlin style icon Britt Kanja and TV star Cheyenne Pahde add their own distinctive presence to the guest list.
Cheyenne Pahde- Rúrik Gíslason ©Jon Ragnar Jonsson
- Britt Kanja by René Lohse Berlin
- Christopher Doll ©Mathias Bothor
Beyond the awards, the Vienna Awards remain a symbol of creative connection — where Austria’s cultural heritage meets an international gaze. Past years have welcomed icons from Karolina Kurkova to Iris Apfel, Wolfgang Joop to Jerry Hall. This year, the energy feels both familiar and freshly charged — rooted in tradition, yet speaking to a new generation.
The 15th Vienna Awards promise a night where style meets substance, where the red carpet is not just a display of beauty but a declaration of individuality, and where women’s achievements are not merely acknowledged but celebrated as the heartbeat of cultural progress.
