Mr. Klemmer, the Miss Germany competition has been taking place since 1927. Under your leadership, the "beauty competition" has been transformed in recent years. What has changed?
Studies and trends show that society is changing and evolving in extensive ways. Those who do not face up to this change quickly lose relevance and raison d'être. In addition, personal values must always be in line in companies. With the generational change, these have changed greatly. This is precisely why we have redefined Miss Germany 2019 to award women who take responsibility. We want to redefine outdated values and, in particular, stand up for equality. With the Miss Germany Awards, we have made it our mission to bring together women with diverse topics, such as business start-ups, LGBTQIA+, gaming, crafts and many more. We want to be a platform for people who create sustainable impact and above all, are role models for our society.
This year, there is another change: there is no longer a maximum age to apply for Miss Germany and consequently, "Miss 50plus" becomes a part of Miss Germany. Miss Germany is breaking with age limits, why?
The decision to no longer have age limits on Miss Germany allows for a more inclusive and diverse participation. By doing away with age limits the focus will be on sharing personal experiences and showing personality. We believe that age should not be an obstacle to participate in the award and that every woman deserves the chance to realize her dreams, regardless of her age. By making this change, we want to encourage women to show that life still holds many opportunities at any age.
Other formats, such as “Germany's Next Topmodel”, now also has dispensed with age limits. Is there a trend against age limits?
Yes, there is a discernible trend for certain formats to dispense with age limits. This trend goes hand in hand with a growing awareness of inclusion and diversity. Waiving age limits creates the opportunity for women of all ages to pursue their dreams and that success is not tied to specific age limits. This allows for greater diversity and represents the different stages and experiences of women's lives. It also opens the opportunity for women who may not participate in the award until later in their careers or after certain life events to have the same opportunity. Overall, the trend against age limits reflects the desire that everyone should have the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of age.
What effect do you expect or hope for the Miss Germany Award 2023?
Of course, we would like to see many applications from women over 39. The change and acceptance to the new age limit will certainly not happen overnight, but we are looking forward to a large number of great women who tell stories. We want to help bring together women from a wide variety of backgrounds, cultures and even age groups and thus create inspiring role models for society.
Do you think this change will give Miss Germany greater social relevance and acceptance?
The decision to do away with age limits for Miss Germany can help the award gain greater social relevance and acceptance. By Miss Germany advocating for more inclusion, diversity and equality on different levels, it appeals to a wider audience and reflects the diversity of our society. It allows women of all ages and backgrounds to represent themselves in a platform like Miss Germany and serve as role models. Through this change, Miss Germany can help challenge traditional value standards and present a modern, inclusive image of women. This can contribute to greater social relevance and a more positive perception of the award.