This honor recognizes her commitment as a “family entrepreneur, environmentalist, defender of human rights and as a role model for sustainable and social entrepreneurship in the textile industry” at the highest government level. As part of the Day of German Unity, 28 citizens received this award for their outstanding commitment to the values of democracy.
The Order of Merit, also known as the Federal Cross of Merit, is the highest recognition that the Federal Republic awards for services to the common good. It is awarded for political, economic-social and intellectual achievements. The honor, which this year has the motto “Practicing Values of Democracy”, goes to people who make an important contribution to mutual understanding and social dialogue in the Federal Republic. “It is a great honor and I am very moved to accept this award,” said Antje von Dewitz. “Above all, I see it as an appreciation of the great work of our entire team at Vaude.” At the award ceremony in Berlin, Antje von Dewitz was accompanied by her entire family, her partner Wolfgang Ungelert and their four children.
Role model for sustainable entrepreneurship
Under Antje von Dewitz’s leadership, Vaude has developed into a pioneer for sustainable business far beyond the outdoor industry. The Federal President’s Office honors her commitment with the words: “Family businessman, environmentalist, defender of human rights – these are not contradictions for Antje von Dewitz. Under her as managing director, the outdoor clothing and sports equipment company Vaude has committed itself to climate neutrality, environmental protection and high social standards in the supply chain itself. It has thus become a role model for sustainable and social entrepreneurship in the textile and clothing industry. She is also committed to integrating refugees through employment and is co-founder of the entrepreneurial initiative “Right to Stay through Work”. Antje von Dewitz is also involved in many honorary positions. She was deputy chairwoman of the board of trustees of the German Federal Environmental Foundation for ten years and is a board member of the Federal Association for Sustainable Economy.”
In addition to Antje von Dewitz, well-known personalities such as Alena Buyx, chairwoman of the German Ethics Council, football coach Jürgen Klopp and actor Gerhard Polt were honored.
“I also accepted this special award on behalf of all of us at Vaude. Because what I was recognized for is our collective achievement. I would like to share and celebrate that with you,” says Antje von Dewitz happily. After they return from Berlin, the whole team celebrates at the company headquarters in Tettnang in southern Germany.
