Tallinn Bearty 2026: the Bear International Awards announced

On Friday April 17th, 2026 the Bear International Awards have been announced and presented to 3 new laureates. Heartfelt congratulations from Tallinn Bearty team!

Les K. Wright

Stig Kogstad

Keio Soomelt

CALAIS AWARD – International Contacts & Networking

Dr. Les K. Wright (USA)

Dr. Les K. Wright is honored for his lifelong dedication to international connection, cultural exchange, and the preservation of Bear history. As a historian, writer, and founder of the Bear History Project, he has ensured that the stories and contributions of Bear communities are documented and shared across borders. Through decades of global engagement, scholarship, and presence at Bear gatherings worldwide, he has strengthened ties between communities and generations. His work has fostered dialogue, mutual understanding, and cross‑cultural solidarity within the international LGBTQ+ landscape. Dr. Wright’s commitment has made him a central connector and trusted cultural ambassador of the global Bear movement.

HYACINTHUS AWARD – Art & Culture

Stig Kogstad (Norway)

Stig Kogstad is honored for his outstanding contribution to Bear culture through artistic vision and cultural leadership. As producer of the Bear Stage at Oslo Pride, he helped transform a community initiative into one of Pride Park’s most vibrant and beloved cultural platforms. Under his guidance, the Bear Stage became a visible and inclusive space celebrating Bear identity, creativity, and joy. By sharing the concept internationally, Stig has inspired similar initiatives beyond Norway’s borders. His work has significantly strengthened Bear cultural expression within Pride and the wider LGBTQ+ community.

IOLAUS AWARD – Special Courage

Keio Soomelt (Estonia)

Keio Soomelt is honored for exceptional courage in advancing LGBTQ+ visibility, culture, and community life in Estonia and the Baltic region. As co‑founder and long‑time leader of Festheart, the only recurring LGBTQ+ film festival in the Baltics, he has brought queer stories into public cultural spaces with determination and resilience. Through his leadership of Vikerlased, the first LGBTQ+ choir in Estonia and the Baltics, he has given queer voices a place within the country’s strongest musical traditions. He has also played a central role in organizing Pride events in Tallinn and Tartu, helping ensure safe and visible spaces for the community. His courage is defined by sustained action, cultural creation, and unwavering commitment to dignity and inclusion.