Organisations Worldwide Recognised for Commitment to LGBTIQ+ Cause in Record-breaking Gala Event at Amsterdam’s Maritime Museum

Amsterdam, November 3, 2023 – The 2023 Workplace Pride Impact Awards Gala began in style as the renowned Belgian singer-songwriter and Eurovision sensation, Gustaph, took the stage to open the highly anticipated event. The talented artist represented Belgium in the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 in Liverpool, United Kingdom, with his captivating performance of the song “Because of You,” which he sang to over 400 members of Workplace Pride at the Het Scheepvaart Museum (The Dutch National Maritime Museum).

Gustaph’s electrifying presence and musical prowess set the tone for an evening dedicated to celebrating and honouring individuals and organisations committed to the cause of diversity and inclusivity, especially in support of the LGBTIQ+ community. This was the 10th anniversary of the Workplace Pride Impact Awards Gala.

The Winners:

Network of the Year Impact Award – Accenture
Accenture’s Global Pride network was acknowledged for empowering employees to lead local change, promoting policy transformations, fostering a sense of belonging, and establishing a visible presence within and beyond their corporate spaces. Their Pride Employee Resource Group (ERG) creates an inclusive atmosphere and serves as a valuable resource, offering proactive feedback and ideas to enhance global initiatives.

Volunteer of the Year Impact Award – Razvan Bran (He/Him) – Lenovo
Razvan Bran, from Lenovo in Romania, was recognised for his exemplary dedication to fostering LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion. He led workshops, volunteer activities, and advocacy efforts to educate Lenovo employees and the broader community about diversity, equity, and inclusion, particularly with regard to LGBTIQ+ issues.

Media Outreach of the Year Impact Award – Shell India Mobility “We are Human, First”
Shell India Mobility was commended for its bold media campaign in India, aimed at breaking the stigma surrounding the queer community. The campaign highlighted Shell as an equal opportunity employer, raising awareness of the challenges faced by the transgender community in Indian society and advocating for their acceptance and inclusion.

Ally of the Year Impact Award – Terhi Kivinen (She/Her) – Kemira
Terhi Kivinen, Chief Communications Officer at Kemira, was honoured for her extraordinary dedication as a founding sponsor and executive sponsor, advancing LGBTIQ+ inclusion within her organisation. Her active participation in Pride events, support for LGBTIQ+ employees, and consistent championing of diversity in leadership set a remarkable standard for allyship.

Role Model of the Year Impact Award – Janet Visbeen (She/Her) – PwC
Janet Visbeen, a partner at PwC Nederland, was celebrated for her impressive career and openness about her sexuality. She has been a role model, actively supporting LGBTQ+ inclusion, setting up networks, and promoting self-identification within PwC.

Members’ Choice – Game Changer of the Year Award Helen Demosthenous (She/Her) – KLM
Helen Demosthenous of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines was nominated for her tireless energy and commitment to diversity and inclusion. She actively promotes D&I within KLM and has been fearless in advocating for equity and respect, challenging the status quo.

Global Benchmark Results:
The benchmark results for 2023 showcased the evolving landscape, with organisations increasingly responsive to societal changes and the needs of the LGBTIQ+ community. The Adovocates included Unilever, Sodexo, Shell, RELX Elsevier, PwC Netherlands, IBM, Dow, and Accenture, achieving scores consistently surpassing 90%.

Acknowledged as Ambassadors were organisations such as Nokia, Ministerie van Volksgezondheid, Welzijn & Sport, McKinsey & Company, KLM, ING, Deloitte, Cisco, Avery Dennison, Arcadis, and Aegon N.V., which secured scores ranging from 70% to 90%.

This year’s awards represent a significant milestone in the ongoing journey towards greater inclusivity and equality for all.