Purpose The purpose of this memorandum is to share the awarding of one of the most prestigious recognitions in systems thinking and cybernetics: The World Organisation of Systems and Cybernetics (WOSC) Norbert Wiener Memorial Gold medal was awarded in June 2019 to Professor Emeritus, PhD, PhD, Matja Mulej for his long-life contributions. Design/methodology/approach The Norbert Wiener Memorial Gold medal was awarded to Professor Emeritus, PhD, PhD, Matja Mulej based on the combination of extensive literature analysis and the Delphi approach. Findings Based on Professor Emeritus, PhD, PhD, Matja Mule's exceptional accomplishments in the field of systems thinking and cybernetics, especially the Dialectical Systems Theory and the notion of requisite holism, combined with his visionary projects as, for instance, the development and application of social responsibility concepts, he was nominated and awarded this esteemed medal. Research limitations/implications The Norbert Wiener Memorial Gold medal draws the focus to important work of exceptional individuals and at the same time drives researchers to follow his example in research and overall behaviour. Originality/value The Norbert Wiener Memorial Gold medal has been awarded to 12 people during the past 50years of WOSC's existence. Only researchers that have provided significant imprint in systems thinking and cybernetics with their research and organisational activities in society, organisations and communities can be nominated for this prize.