GayIceland’s Magdalena Lukasiak talks to Eva María Glimmer Þórarinsdóttir Lange, CEO of Pink Iceland about the honor of being recently named in Attitude’s 101 list of LGBTQ+ pioneers, her work for the LGBTQIA+ community and the backlash we are currently facing.
For years Eva María Glimmer Þórarinsdóttir Lange, CEO of Pink Iceland and former chair of Reykjavík Pride, has contributed to the advancement of LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility. Now Attitude Magazine has honored Eva Maria for her work by naming her in Attitude’s 2025 101 list of LGBTQ+ individuals who have contributed to the community in a game changing way. Eva María is specifically celebrated for her impact on LGBTQ+ visibility and inclusive tourism.
When the news broke that she had been named on the Attitude 101 List for 2025, Eva María’s initial reaction was disbelief. “How did they find me? Why me?” she wondered. But as the reality of the recognition settled in, a profound sense of gratitude emerged. For the founder of Pink Iceland, this honor serves as both a personal milestone and a testament to the importance of visibility within the LGBTQIA+ community. “More than anything, this recognition affirms the importance of creating spaces where people feel welcome,” she says.
More than anything, this recognition affirms the importance of creating spaces where people feel welcome.
Visibility as Influence
For years, Pink Iceland has been at the forefront of inclusive travel, pioneering a space where LGBTQIA+ travelers can experience Iceland safely and authentically. “Fourteen years ago, I had a vision of a travel experience designed for our community,” says Eva María. “Today, we have a team of 12 incredible people making that vision a reality.” The company, which has become the leading destination wedding planning service in Iceland, was built on a foundation of queer values and integrity.
But what defines influence in the LGBTQIA+ community? For Eva María the answer is clear: visibility. From the outset, she made it a priority to champion her company’s values, participate in international events and welcome queer media to Iceland. “There aren’t many businesses like Pink Iceland, where values come before profit,” she says. “Because of that, I’ve had the opportunity to speak at industry events and share how we do things differently.”
Guided by the philosophy, “Be the change you wish to see in the world,” Eva María has expanded her impact beyond travel. She frequently speaks on topics like ethical business practices and sustainability, mentors young entrepreneurs, and guest lectures at universities. “I want to keep using my platform to inspire change,” she says.
Creating a Safe Space in Travel
According to Eva María the inspiration for founding Pink Iceland was twofold: a love for the LGBTQIA+ community and a passion for travel. The goal was to create a space where queer travelers could feel at home, free of fear and full of belonging. “Traveling should be about joy, not anxiety,” she points out. “We want people to feel that they are truly seen, respected, and celebrated.”
We need stronger public support from politicians and institutions.
Despite Iceland’s progressive reputation, Eva María admits that ensuring an inclusive experience can be a challenge. “We can control how our team interacts with guests,” she says, “but we can’t guarantee how they will be treated everywhere else—hotels, restaurants, or tourist attractions.”
The good news? Businesses are eager to do better. “Many companies now reach out to us for guidance on how to be more inclusive,” says Eva María. “That gives me hope.”
Standing in Solidarity
Over the years, Iceland has made significant strides when it comes to LGBTQIA+ rights. The 2019 Gender Autonomy Act granted trans and non-binary individuals greater rights, and efforts are underway to remove restrictions on blood donations for queer men and trans people.
Despite progress in Iceland, challenges remain. “We are seeing a rise in hate speech and targeted attacks, especially towards young people,” says Eva María. “We need stronger public support from politicians and institutions.” Some legal disparities persist as well, such as the bureaucratic hurdles faced by same-sex couples undergoing IVF. “It’s time for full equality,” she says.
With global shifts in LGBTQIA+ rights, as can be seen in the U.S. where anti-trans legislation is spreading across the country, Eva Maria says international support is also more important than ever. “We must raise awareness, mobilize allies, and work with local organizations. Solidarity is crucial,” she says, adding that Pink Iceland remains committed to supporting trans rights, both locally and globally. “We focus on backing Icelandic LGBTQIA+ organizations, but we are always looking for ways to extend that support to those facing greater challenges.”
Recently, the company has seen an increase in inquiries from parents of transgender children, particularly from the U.S., looking for a place where their families will be welcomed. “It’s deeply rewarding to help them create positive memories,” says Eva María.
Hope for the Future
Despite these ongoing struggles, Eva María reminds us that progress also continues. “Countries like Iceland, Spain, and Germany are moving forward on trans rights,” she points out. “Even in the U.S. individual states are pushing back against discriminatory policies.”
A backlash, Eva María notes, can sometimes serve as a wake-up call. “It reminds us that not everyone shares our values. But it also unites us and makes us stronger.”
And Eva María has a message to the trans community and their allies. “You are not alone. Our community will continue to stand together. No matter what laws are passed or what challenges arise, we will fight for dignity, recognition, and freedom.”
To the trans community: You are not alone. Our community will continue to stand together. No matter what laws are passed or what challenges arise, we will fight for dignity, recognition, and freedom.
She urges everyone to take action: “Every voice matters. Have the difficult conversations. Speak up. Be brave. Change starts with each of us.”
