workplace pride

Workplace Pride Welcomes Essendi as Newest Partner at Amsterdam’s Iconic Pink Party

24 July 2025
John Ryan
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Categories: Event, Member, news, News

Amsterdam, July 24, 2025 — Workplace Pride is proud to announce that Essendi, a leading hotel owner and operator across Europe, has officially joined its global network of LGBTIQ+ inclusion champions. The partnership was launched in style during the festive 10th edition of the Pink Party, held at the iconic INK Hotel Amsterdam – MGallery Collection, a fitting setting for a milestone rooted in hospitality, pride, and visibility.

As a purpose-driven organisation with a portfolio of over 568 hotels in 22 countries, Essendi brings a powerful vision to the Workplace Pride community: to create and foster places that thrive — for guests, teams, and the wider ecosystem. With more than 20,000 passionate team members, a strong sustainability record (38% of hotels Green Key certified), and deep roots in Europe’s hospitality landscape, Essendi is uniquely positioned to make a positive and lasting impact.

David Pollard, Co-founder & Executive Director of Workplace Pride:
“This partnership with Essendi highlights how inclusion can become a true business value. By
embedding LGBTQIA+ inclusion into leadership, strategy, and culture, Essendi shows that hospitality
can and should be a driver for equity and belonging.”

Essendi’s core values — caring for people, daring to innovate, and empowering teams to create impact — form the backbone of their business model and align closely with Workplace Pride’s principles of visibility, belonging, and transformation.

Martijn van der Graaf, COO Western Europe at Essendi:
“Inclusion and diversity are not just values at Essendi; they are operational priorities. With Workplace
Pride, we’re transforming commitments into action: inclusive leadership, safer spaces, and a culture
where everyone can be themselves. Signing this partnership during the 10th PINK Party isn’t just
symbolic, it’s a celebration of what we stand for.”

The Pink Party, now celebrating a decade of fostering community and visibility, proved the perfect moment to affirm this new partnership publicly—surrounded by members, allies, and advocates committed to a more inclusive future.

Jolanda de Smit, General Manager, INK Hotel Amsterdam – MGallery Collection:
“Ten years of INK Hotel Amsterdam – MGallery Collection is more than an anniversary; it’s a
celebration of the journey we’ve shared with our guests and team.
We’ve built a place where everyone feels they belong, where people are seen, heard, and respected.
Diversity and inclusion have never been trends for us, they are the pillars of who we are.

About Workplace Pride
Workplace Pride is a not-for-profit foundation dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTIQ+ people in workplaces worldwide. Through partnerships, research, events, and advocacy, it empowers organisations to embed inclusion and belonging at every level.

About Essendi
Essendi is a leading hotel owner and operator in the economy and mid-scale segments in Europe. With over 568 hotels in 22 countries and more than 20,000 team members, Essendi combines dynamic asset management with hotel operations to unlock the full potential of each location. Driven by values of care, innovation, and empowerment, Essendi is committed to creating sustainable, inclusive, and thriving places for people and communities across Europe.

KPMG Pride ERG Event

27 May 2025
John Ryan
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December 14 @ 5:06 AM

Workplace Pride Member Event

Everything you always wanted to know but were afraid to ask…

We warmly invite you to join us on Thursday afternoon, 12 June 2025, to celebrate the power of inclusion and diversity at our Pride ERG event! On this day, KPMG Meijburg & Co in Amstelveen will open its doors for this unique event, organized by the Pride Board of KPMG and KPMG Meijburg, in collaboration with the NBA Community Diversity and Inclusion, the NOB, and NOREA.

This event focuses on the creation, development, and professionalization of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) for the Pride Community in the workplace. It also offers the opportunity to explore how Pride ERGs contribute to a dynamic and innovative work culture—one where all employees can be their full, authentic selves and feel valued and respected.

Register Today!

On the program…

The afternoon kicks off with a plenary session where Jojanneke van der Toorn, Professor of LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion at Leiden University, will inspire us with her latest insights into the science of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI). She will also share success stories from other organizations about building and organizing effective Pride ERGs. In addition, Skylar Leslie, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisor at KPMG, will guide us through ERG Maturity.

Next, we’ll break into smaller groups for interactive sessions—a great opportunity to exchange ideas and best practices, and to learn from one another’s experiences.

Of course, we’ll end the day with a networking reception, where you can continue the conversation informally and make new connections over drinks.

Register now!
Don’t miss this opportunity to work together toward a more inclusive and respectful workplace for all! The event is free and open to everyone (including those who are not part of the Pride Community). Register directly via this link.

If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to contact the KPMG Pride Board at NL-FMPride@kpmg.nl.

We look forward to welcoming you to this unique event!

Warm regards,
The Pride Board of KPMG and KPMG Meijburg

Building Bridges: LGBTIQ+ Economic Empowerment Takes Center Stage in Manila

20 May 2025
John Ryan
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Categories: Free to Be Me, news, News

On April 10, 2025, over 70 changemakers gathered at Accenture’s Uptown Bonifacio office in Manila for the Manila Economic Empowerment Forum—a landmark event focused on advancing LGBTIQ+ inclusion through economic empowerment across Southeast Asia.

Organised by Workplace Pride in partnership with Accenture Philippines, the forum brought together a dynamic mix of business leaders, civil society advocates, diplomats, and community voices. The day was rooted in the Free to Be Me global initiative and marked a powerful step toward localizing this movement in the Southeast Asian context.

A Platform for Evidence, Empathy, and Action

The forum was more than just a conference—it was a space for real talk, strategic co-creation, and authentic connection.

Key Highlights:

  • Data-backed insights from Open for Business highlighted the economic cost of exclusion, urging stakeholders to speak the “language of business” when advocating for inclusion.
  • Personal storytelling from local community members grounded discussions in lived experience, underscoring the human stakes of exclusion and the transformative potential of inclusive workplaces.
  • Breakout sessions explored critical topics like localizing DEI in Asia, navigating advocacy in hostile environments, inclusive procurement, and building culturally relevant toolkits.
  • Corporate leaders like ING, Shell, and Accenture shared practical ways to embed DEI across operations, from hiring to supply chains.
  • Diplomatic missions and civil society organisations discussed how to build sustainable partnerships that prioritise local leadership and long-term impact.

Button (Download Full Report Here)

Download Full Report Here

Why This Matters

Inclusion is not just a checkbox—it is a driver of innovation, resilience, and economic progress. The Manila Forum reminded us that building a truly inclusive future requires more than good intentions. It demands collaboration across sectors, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to systemic change.

The event closed with a powerful call to action: move beyond performative allyship. Invest in real partnerships. Make inclusion part of your business DNA.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Whether you are in HR, DEI, CSR, or community advocacy, you have a role to play in advancing LGBTIQ+ economic empowerment. Explore the Civil Society Business Toolkit, connect with local partners, and bring these conversations into your workplace.

🔗 Join the movement at workplacepride.org
 💡 Partner with us to co-create inclusive strategies that work where you are.

Let us move from awareness to action—together.

Read More

Workplace Pride Personal Assistant

20 March 2025
John Ryan
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Categories: News

Are you ready to join our team?

About Workplace Pride

Workplace Pride is a not-for-profit foundation dedicated to advancing LGBTIQ+ inclusion in workplaces worldwide. Our mission is to create environments where LGBTIQ+ individuals can thrive, be their authentic selves, and contribute meaningfully. We collaborate with multinational corporations, public sector organisations, and civil society groups to drive impactful change.

Position Overview

The Personal Assistant provides high-level administrative support to the Executive Director, ensuring seamless daily operations. This role requires exceptional organisational skills, proactive problem-solving, and discretion. Key responsibilities include managing schedules, coordinating meetings, supporting strategic projects, and facilitating internal and external communications. Additionally, the role oversees Workplace Pride’s office facilities, and supports supplier relations, event logistics, and IT coordination to ensure an efficient and well-organised work environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Oversee the Executive Director’s calendar, prioritising inquiries and scheduling engagements efficiently.
  • Prepare and organise materials for meetings, including agenda development, note-taking, and follow-up coordination.
  • Provide administrative support for special projects, including drafting correspondence, arranging travel, and maintaining digital filing systems.
  • Act as the primary liaison for internal and external communications related to the Executive Director.
  • Facilitate effective collaboration between the Executive Director and Workplace Pride staff, including the Management Team.
  • Support member acquisition efforts through correspondence, follow-ups, and scheduling.
  • Assist in onboarding new members in coordination with the Director of Operations and Relationship Managers.
  • Support the Director of Communications with event registration logistics.
  • Provide logistical and operational support for Workplace Pride’s events and initiatives.

Facility & Office Management

  • Manage Workplace Pride office facilities, and support with supplier relations, event logistics, and IT coordination.

Qualifications, Skills, and Experience

  • Strong affinity with and knowledge of the LGBTIQ+ community, with a passion for fostering positive change. 
  • Minimum of five years of experience as a Personal Assistant in a corporate or nonprofit setting.
  • Fluency in English both written and spoken (required) and in Dutch (preferred). 
  • Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.
  • Exceptional organisational and time-management abilities, with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
  • High level of professionalism when engaging with diverse stakeholders, including staff, board members, senior executives, and community leaders.
  • Ability to manage urgent situations with a calm and proactive approach.
  • Strong integrity and discretion in handling confidential information.
  • Proficiency in digital tools and platforms, including Apple, Microsoft, and Chrome. Experience with Eventbrite, Mailchimp, and Monday.com is a plus.
  • Experience in international travel planning is highly desirable.

Position Details & Benefits

  • Part-time role (24 hours per week) with at least two in-office days for team collaboration.
  • Eight-month contract with the possibility of extension.
  • Competitive compensation based on experience.
  • Reports directly to the Executive Director, with frequent interaction with staff and board members.
  • Preferred starting date: May 1st.
  • Workplace Pride embraces diversity and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a CV (in English), a one-page motivation letter, and two professional references (no older than three years; references may be in Dutch) to info@workplacepride.org.

Contact Information

For any questions regarding this vacancy, please contact info@workplacepride.org.

Team Up for Inclusion at the Rainbow Ride!

5 March 2025
John Ryan
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December 14 @ 5:06 AM

Looking for a great way to get active outdoors with your colleagues, friends, or family? On Sunday, June 1, join the Rainbow Ride, an energetic, colourful, and inclusive cycling event starting from LIEF Amsterdam.

Why ride?
The Rainbow Ride isn’t just about cycling—it’s about coming together to support a world where everyone is included. Form a team with your workplace, department, or community and enjoy a day of sport, connection, and impact. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, there’s a route for everyone. Ride at your own pace, enjoy the stunning scenery, and finish with a celebratory festival.

Three routes to challenge and inspire:

  • 50 km (registration fee is €35) – A relaxed, scenic ride through Spaarnwoude and Bloemendaal, passing the Molenplas and Meerwijkplas, before heading back to Amsterdam.
  • 100 km (registration fee is €40) – A balanced mix of challenge and nature, taking you past the Mooie Nel, over the iconic Vijfhuizen dyke, and along the Westeinderplassen.
  • 200 km (registration fee is €45) – The ultimate experience! Cycle through the Noordwijk dunes, past the colourful Bulb Region, and across the picturesque Green Heart.

A team experience like no other

  • Ride together with colleagues, friends, or family
  • Enjoy built-in breaks to refuel and chat
  • Cross the finish line and celebrate at the festival at LIEF Amsterdam (near Sloterdijk), with music, food, and drinks

Make an even bigger impact
Want to do more? Ride for a cause by fundraising as a team or an individual. Your participation helps create a more inclusive world—one pedal stroke at a time.

Sign up your team today!
Includes snacks, water, and access to the finish festival. Want the full experience? Opt for an extra contribution to get exclusive cycling gear and a nutritious meal at the finish. Register now at www.rainbowride.nl and ride for change!

Standing Together for Trans Rights – Join Us in Action

5 March 2025
John Ryan
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Categories: News, Trans+
Trans Flag

Dear trans+@WP friends and allies,

We need your help! The rights of transgender individuals are under increasing pressure worldwide, from restrictive legislation to corporate and government rollbacks on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). These attacks threaten not just policies but the everyday lives and dignity of our community.

At Workplace Pride, we believe in action over despair—and that is where you come in. We are looking for partners to:

  • Co-organise events that support and uplift the trans+ community (in-person or hybrid).
  • Share key questions that your leadership, legal teams, or ERGs are asking in today’s climate.
  • Expand our network to connect and empower trans+ individuals globally.
  • Highlight stories of strength and resilience to inspire and educate others.

With your support, we can continue to amplify trans voices, share critical insights, and push for a more inclusive workplace and society.

Read our latest statement on what is happening and how businesses can take action:
🔗 Workplace Pride’s Commitment to Inclusion & Belonging

Reach out to us at trans@workplacepride.org if you have ideas, questions, or want to get involved, please reach out—now more than ever, we need to stand together.

In solidarity,
Sophie Jeckmans (She/Her)

Workplace Pride Board Member
On behalf of trans+@WorkplacePride

📢 Stay connected with us:
🔗 LinkedIn
🔗 BlueSky

Embracing Resilience and Continuing Our Commitment to Inclusion and Belonging 

29 January 2025
John Ryan
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Categories: News

As we step into 2025, we are reminded once again of the dynamic and ever-changing landscape of Inclusion and Belonging. Recently, we have seen some high-profile companies and organisations, particularly in North America, scaling back their public commitment to these vital efforts. This has understandably raised questions from amongst our members. I would like to take this opportunity to offer a thoughtful response to these concerns, and to reassure you of our continued dedication to the values that unite us.

The Resilience of Our Community 

Despite the turbulence we currently face, our community of LGBTIQ+ people and their allies remains steadfast. The organisations that continue to stand alongside us understand that fostering inclusion and belonging is not just the right thing to do—it is essential for long-term success. Creating environments where everyone feels they belong leads to higher engagement, greater productivity, better teamwork, and stronger innovation. The evidence is clear: inclusive workplaces perform better, and employees who feel included are more likely to thrive. This directly contributes to the bottom line of organisations!

Challenges Ahead, But Opportunities Too 

It is true that some companies, organisations and the public sector, primarily in the United States, have recently reduced the visibility of their inclusion efforts. This is often due to political, legal challenges or societal pressure. However, the situation in Europe and other regions of the world is different. Strong regulatory frameworks in Europe continue to promote transparency in inclusion practices and many companies there continue to make substantial progress in this area.  And, in Asia, Inclusion and Belonging is actually thriving and continuing to make substantial gains. So, while some organisations may face regional challenges, the core of their work in promoting inclusion and belonging and workplace safety around the world remains strong.

The Business Case for Inclusion and Belonging 

The evidence for the importance of inclusion is not just moral, but very practical:

  • A 2023 Deloitte survey found that 42% of LGBTIQ+ employees experienced non-inclusive behaviours at work, highlighting the need for continued efforts to create inclusive environments.
  • Research from Out & Equal shows that LGBTIQ+ employees who conceal their identity at work experience a 15-30% reduction in productivity due to the mental energy spent on hiding who they truly are.
  • Workplace discrimination has serious consequences. LGBTIQ+ employees who face bias are 20-30% less likely to perform at their best and are more likely to disengage or leave their roles (HRC Foundation).

These statistics make it clear that a workplace where people feel they belong is not only a healthier environment but one that drives better performance, both for the individual and the organisation.

Leadership in Difficult Times 

While the external environment may be evolving, we believe that our community can lead by example. European companies continue to champion Inclusion and Belonging, even in the face of external challenges. Companies like Workplace Pride Members Shell, Microsoft and ING remain at the forefront of this movement, demonstrating that commitment to these values is a long-term strategy that pays dividends in employee satisfaction, retention, and innovation. 

A Call to Action 

Now, more than ever, it is crucial that we reaffirm our commitment to inclusion and belonging. As we look to the future, I encourage all our members to:

  1. Maintain a long-term vision. Inclusion and belonging are not short-term trends, but rather fundamental components of a healthy, successful organisation.
  2. Share your successes. If your organisation is making meaningful progress, let us help you amplify those efforts to inspire others.
  3. Stay engaged. Reach out to Workplace Pride for resources, insights, and case studies that can support your organisation in navigating these challenges.
  1. Remember that “Inclusion and Belonging” inherently includes ”Diversity”. Embracing diversity in all its forms, whether it be based on race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, or any other aspect of identity, is essential for creating truly inclusive and equitable workplaces
  2. Protect the vulnerable. In this challenging time, it is particularly important to provide safe working environments to your most marginalised employees such as those in the Trans community. This will be the best signal to others in your organisation that you remain committed to inclusion and belonging.
  3. Regional Differences. Continue your ongoing inclusion efforts globally while supporting your colleagues in regions experiencing setbacks.

Looking Ahead 

While the road ahead may present challenges, it also presents an opportunity for us to prove that inclusion and belonging are not just desirable ideals—they are essential for building a thriving, sustainable future. With this in mind, Workplace Pride will focus this year on ‘Going Beyond Pride’ and engage many non-traditional stakeholders to ensure that inclusion and belonging become the foundation of change in the workplace. 

Together, we can continue to drive positive change, create workplaces where everyone and anyone feels they truly belong, and build a more inclusive world for all.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment and support. Let us continue to stand united, now and in the years to come.

Regards

David Pollard
Executive Director
Workplace Pride

#WorkplacePride #BeyondPride #InclusionMatters #LGBTIQBelonging #ResilienceIn2025 #WorkplaceInclusion

Empowering LGBTIQ+ Students and Professionals: Queericulum Vitae Prepares the Next Generation for the Workforce

7 January 2025
John Ryan
No comments
Categories: Academia@WorkplacePride, Event, Member, News, Young
Pictured L-R: Jakub Poluszynski, Veronique Klaassen, Alexandre El Aiba and the moderator Joost Kremer

Amsterdam, Netherlands – Queericulum Vitae, an empowering event aimed at helping LGBTIQ+ individuals navigate the job market with confidence, took place at the Workplace Pride office on Purple Friday, December 13th. The event, designed for LGBTIQ+ students and young professionals, combined practical training, career advice, and networking opportunities to help attendees stand out in the competitive job market.

Organized by Academia@WorkplacePride, Young@WorkplacePride, and Student Pride, Queericulum Vitae focused on equipping participants with the tools they need to successfully transition into the workforce while remaining true to their authentic selves. The afternoon program featured a job market preparation workshop, an inspiring panel discussion, and a chance for participants to update their LinkedIn profiles with professional photos.

Preparing for the Job Market: A Workshop for Empowerment

Job market workshop led by Chantal van der Putten Director,
Breda University of Applied Sciences
The LinkedIn photo shoot was conducted by Akos Tar
from Studio Uppix

The day began with a light lunch and a LinkedIn photoshoot, giving attendees the opportunity to enhance their professional online presence. At 13:30, the first session—Job Market Preparation—kicked off, aimed specifically at LGBTIQ+ students and young professionals. Led by Chantal van der Putten (Director, Breda University of Applied Sciences) , the workshop provided practical insights on how to approach job applications, interviews, and career development.

The session addressed key questions, such as: Should you highlight your involvement in queer student associations on your CV? and How should you evaluate an organization’s LGBTIQ+ policies when considering job opportunities? It also explored the importance of being your authentic self in the workplace and the impact that could have on mental health and resilience.

One of the standout moments was a Kahoot quiz that encouraged participants to reflect on why authenticity at work matters. Answers ranged from “building genuine relationships” to “increasing creativity and resilience.” The session emphasized that being open about one’s identity is not just a personal choice but can have a significant impact on career success and personal well-being.

Panel Discussion: Navigating the Early Stages of Your Career

At 14:15, a panel discussion delved deeper into the realities of navigating the beginning of one’s career as part of the LGBTIQ+ community. Moderated by Joost Kremer, the panel featured diverse voices, including:

  • Jakub Poluszynski , a psychology student and Talent Acquisition Manager at Studocu
  • Alexandre El Aiba , Associate Corporate Sustainability Aegon
  • Veronique Klaassen, Policy Officer, Digital Economy,  Province Zuid-Holland

The panelists shared their experiences, offering advice on what to look for in a potential employer, the importance of Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) support, and the role of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) in fostering an inclusive work environment.

Veronique, a panelist, noted that while her organization wasn’t fully developed in terms of D&I, she saw it as an opportunity to shape the company’s future. Alexandre, from Aegon, emphasized the importance of ERGs and how they have provided a supportive network throughout his career.

The discussion also touched on the importance of researching companies’ D&I policies and practices. Panelists encouraged participants to look beyond statements and policies, focusing on tangible commitments, targets, and actual progress. They also highlighted how allies and executive sponsorship can strengthen organizational inclusivity.

Key Takeaways: Authenticity, Allyship, and Representation

One of the most valuable pieces of advice from the event was the emphasis on balancing authenticity and professional presentation. Panelists advised that CVs should reflect volunteer work, activism, and other personal experiences, as these can be powerful indicators of resilience and commitment to social causes.

Participants were also encouraged to ask questions about workplace culture during interviews and to be proactive in advocating for inclusivity. The panelists highlighted the importance of allies, noting that when senior leadership is open to discussing LGBTIQ+ issues, it fosters a culture of support for everyone.

The event concluded with a final call to action: Be open about who you are, seek workplaces that align with your values, and leverage the power of networks to advance in your career.

Global Leader Council (GLC) Q1 2025

18 December 2024
John Ryan
No comments

December 14 @ 5:06 AM

Member Only Event

You are invited to the Global Leaders Council (GLC) Q1 2025

The GLC is an online quarterly forum in which Workplace Pride members can have a high-level discussion on strategic topics important to LGBTIQ+ inclusion in the workplace.  GLC participants should be decision-makers or major influencers within their own organisations. 

Member Exchange MX5 2025

18 December 2024
John Ryan
No comments

December 14 @ 5:06 AM

At Workplace Pride we hold regular member exchanges. These member exchanges are interactions, collaborations, and support networks established among members of Workplace Pride who share a commitment to promoting LGBTIQ+ inclusion in the workplace. These exchanges involve the sharing of knowledge, experiences, best practices, and resources related to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in work environments.

Hope to see you there,

Christine, Yuli, Omar, Robert and Brian
Relationship Managers