Website Update!

3 April 2020

Welcome to the new and improved Workplace Pride Foundation website. In our ongoing efforts to be more effective for our members and stakeholders, the Foundation website has been made more user-friendly with simpler navigation and clearer terminology. Here you will find the most important information you need to know about Workplace Pride’s activities around the world. 

With future developments firmly in mind, this update includes a more intuitive search function, an expanded media category, and an easy to use activities calendar. Our products and services are grouped under the menu item, ’Solutions’ while an overview of our current members and information about joining the Foundation can be found under ‘Members’.

We are also very excited about our new password protected section on the website dedicated exclusively to our members. This section is still in development, but is expected to be launched within two weeks. It will include:

  • A wealth of resources on LGBTI workplace inclusion proceed and gathered by the Foundation over the years
  • The Workplace Pride Toolkit for the UN Standards on LGBTI Business Conduct
  • Members’ forums dedicated to specific topics
  • Exclusive information about the Global Benchmark and Employee Survey, and
  • The possibility to be part of the Workplace Pride contact directory

The Members Section will be updated on a regular basis and will be a ‘one-stop-shop’ for timely communications with our members. 

In these challenging times, it is more important than ever to be clear and concise about the priorities for the LGBTI community in the workplace and with all of our supporters and allies around the world. This website takes us all a step in that direction!

Best regards,

David Pollard

Executive director

Workplace Pride Foundation

Workplace Pride Personal Assistant

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 [email protected].

Contact Information

For any questions regarding this vacancy, please contact [email protected].

Standing Together for Trans Rights – Join Us in Action

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 [email protected] 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 

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

Workplace Pride Kicks Off 2025 with Annual Members’ Meeting and New Year’s Reception at PwC Amsterdam

Amsterdam, January 2025 – Workplace Pride hosted its Annual Members’ Meeting and New Year’s Reception at PwC’s state-of-the-art circular Plaza in Amsterdam, marking the first time in 13 years that PwC has welcomed this event. The evening brought together Workplace Pride members, allies, and leaders in an inspiring setting, emphasising progress and collaboration in LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion.

Janet Visbeen, Member of PwC’s Management Board and Shine Network, opened the event with a heartfelt address. She reflected on the journey since PwC signed the Declaration of Amsterdam, a pivotal step in advancing inclusivity within the organisation. “Thirteen years ago, when we last hosted this event, we committed to making real change. Since then, PwC has championed initiatives such as transition leave, greater transparency in diversity reporting, and fostering inclusivity for all employees,” said Janet.

Visbeen also highlighted PwC’s ongoing efforts to broaden inclusivity beyond corporate walls. As a proud sponsor of the Roze Filmdagen, PwC supports societal discussions on challenges affecting marginalised communities. She encouraged attendees to explore ways to support similar initiatives within their own organisations.

David Pollard, Executive Director of Workplace Pride, took the stage to outline the foundation’s growth and direction. With membership up by 14% and significant international milestones achieved in 2024, Pollard emphasised the organisation’s resilience amidst global challenges to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

“Our members are seeking more international engagement and digitalisation,” David shared. “As DEI initiatives face setbacks in certain regions, we remain steadfast, working with organisations that have supported LGBTIQ+ inclusion for decades. These are the companies driving progress in recruitment, retention, and fostering belonging.”

David also spotlighted Workplace Pride’s expanding global reach. The Declaration of India, launched in 2024, reflects the unique challenges and opportunities in the country’s vast workforce. Additionally, the Free to Be Me project, supported by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, continues to empower LGBTIQ+ communities in 12 Global South countries through mentorships, civil society toolkits, and socio-economic roundtables.

Workplace Pride’s management team provided key updates on the Global Benchmark, Learning and Development initiatives, Community Engagement, Communications, and the Foundation’s financial health. Each team reaffirmed their commitment to fostering workplaces where LGBTIQ+ individuals can truly thrive and be their authentic selves.

As the Foundation approaches its milestone 20th anniversary in 2026, it is poised to amplify its efforts, ensuring inclusivity remains a central focus for its diverse and ever-expanding membership.

The event concluded with vibrant networking sessions, where attendees celebrated shared successes and exchanged aspirations for 2025 and beyond.

On behalf of the Workplace Pride Foundation and its staff, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in the 2025 Annual Members’ Meeting and New Year’s Reception.

A special thank-you goes to PwC for hosting this incredible event, as well as to Janet Visbeen (Board of Management, PwC Netherlands – Human Capital), Karst Beckers, Monique Groothuis, Erik Poolman, Joost de Rijk-Kroon, and the entire Shine Network for their support and organisation!

#WorkplacePride #PwCNL #DiversityInAction #ShineNetwork #GlobalBenchmark

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

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.

Closing 2024: A Year of Milestones and Resilience

As 2024 comes to a close, we reflect on an extraordinary year of milestones and resilience. From the Global Benchmark guiding inclusion worldwide to impactful events like the Declaration of India signing, our International Conference, and the inspiring “Stories from the Heart,” we have celebrated progress and unity. This year, we launched the People of Colour community and welcomed Lisa van Ginneken to our Advisory Board, further strengthening our mission to represent every voice.

Looking ahead, 2025 promises to expand our reach with conferences in Manila, Nairobi, São Paulo, and Amsterdam. Thank you for your unwavering support—together, we are building a brighter, more inclusive future!

Highlights from the Trans+@Workplace Pride Event: ‘Intersex – Bringing the I in LGBTIQ+ to Light’

This event was co-sponsored by NNID and Accenture.  

This impactful event, co-sponsored by NNID and Accenture, brought much-needed attention to intersex inclusion and its importance in the LGBTIQ+ spectrum.

Sophie Jeckmans, Lead of the Trans+ Community, introduced the event with a heartfelt and insightful reflection:

“When we started Trans+@Workplace Pride, I (Sophie) said we should be there for everyone who considers themselves non-cisgender. To me, that included people with intersex experiences. Little did I know at the time that many in this group consider themselves cisgender. As we planned this event, it became evident that gender and sex are different! This is why we must make the I in LGBTIQ+ visible and discuss it openly.”

The event featured presentations by Tinka and Renate from NNID, a Dutch organization advocating for sex diversity. They provided a clear and compelling overview of intersex experiences, highlighting both their unique aspects and the overlaps with gender diversity.

A particularly moving moment came when Merel courageously shared her personal story. This was followed by a dynamic panel discussion, featuring Tinka, Renate, Javier (Accenture), and Kailin (Workplace Pride). Together, they explored how workplaces can foster intersex inclusion and the vital role employers play in this effort.

Afbeelding met tekst, schermopname, diagram, Lettertype

Automatisch gegenereerde beschrijving

Grafics NNID, 2024

Understanding Intersex: A Brief Overview

Intersex refers to individuals whose biological sex characteristics—such as chromosomes, gonads, hormone levels, or genitalia—do not fit typical definitions of male or female. This natural variation occurs in approximately 1 in 90 live births, although prevalence estimates may vary.

Key Points on Intersex:

  • Intersex traits may be visible at birth, emerge during puberty, or be discovered through medical evaluations for unrelated issues.
  • Examples of intersex variations include Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS), Turner Syndrome, Klinefelter Syndrome, and Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH).
  • Historically, intersex individuals have faced pressure to conform to binary notions of sex, often through non-consensual surgeries or treatments, leading to significant emotional and physical harm.

In recent years, advocacy has focused on bodily autonomy, informed consent, and combating stigma, emphasizing that intersex variations are a natural part of human diversity.

Creating an Inclusive Workplace for Intersex People

1. Foster Awareness and Education:

  • Conduct training to dispel myths and promote understanding of intersex issues.
  • Use gender-inclusive language in all policies and communications.

2. Ensure Anti-Discrimination Protections:

  • Include intersex traits in non-discrimination policies.
  • Provide confidential reporting mechanisms for harassment or discrimination.

3. Respect Privacy and Autonomy:

  • Avoid making assumptions about gender or personal histories.
  • Protect employees’ medical confidentiality.

4. Promote Inclusive Practices:

  • Offer gender-neutral restroom options.
  • Recognize and support individual healthcare needs, including mental health resources.

5. Encourage Representation and Advocacy:

  • Highlight diverse stories and ensure intersex individuals feel seen and valued.
  • Create safe spaces for open dialogue and foster allyship among colleagues.

The Power of Storytelling

A key takeaway from the event was the power of storytelling. Personal narratives like Merel’s are transformative, fostering empathy and driving action. Workplace Pride encourages its members to host similar events to amplify voices and deepen understanding.


By prioritising intersex inclusion, organisations can cultivate workplaces where every individual feels respected, valued, and able to thrive.

For more insights, visit NNID’s website: nnid.nl.

Join the Young@Workplace Pride Mentorship Program!

[Only open to Workplace Pride Members]

We are excited to invite you to take part in the Young@Workplace Pride Mentorship Program—a unique initiative designed to support and empower young professionals as they navigate their careers. Our goal is to make LGBTIQ+ mentors more accessible, fostering an environment of mutual learning and growth.

Why join?
Our mentorship program is open to individuals of all age groups, combining the insights of experienced professionals with the fresh perspectives of young talent. Whether you’re looking to offer guidance as a mentor or seeking support as a mentee, this program provides the tools and community to help both sides grow. In addition to one-on-one mentorship, we’ll be hosting training sessions and social events to further enrich the experience.

We are looking for:

  • Mentors: LGBTIQ+ professionals with life and work experience, who are willing to share their insights, support, and guidance with others.
  • Mentees: Individuals with personal or professional goals who believe that mentorship can help them achieve growth and success.

Commitment: We ask for just 2 hours per month of your time over the course of 6 months, starting from the end of October 2024.

Key Details:

  • Application Deadline: 13 October 2024
  • Program Kickoff Event: 31 October 2024 (late afternoon, CEST)
  • Format: Hybrid (In-person and online)

At the kickoff event, you will:

  1. Be introduced to the program
  2. Get to know your fellow participants
  3. Receive tools and inspiration to build a strong mentor/mentee relationship

If you identify as LGBTIQ+ and are eager to commit to this program, sign up now via this form. Please note that spaces are limited, and submitting an application does not guarantee a spot.

Let’s come together to make a positive change in each other’s lives!

We look forward to seeing you there.

Warm regards,
The Young@Workplace Pride Team

Symposium Recap: Challenging Norms for LGBTIQ+ Inclusion in the Workplace

“For us to solve these deeply culturally entrenched problems, we have to restructure the very idea of what it means to be a professional” – Dr. Erin Cech (University of Michigan)

This quote nicely summarises the key message of last week’s LGBTIQ+ Workplace Inclusion Symposium at Leiden University, marking the opening of the Academia@WorkplacePride year.

The symposium was opened by Michiel Kolman , Workplace Pride co-chair and Academia@WorkplacePride Lead who highlighted the increasing importance of bridging science and practice given the worrying trends in lgbtiq+ acceptance near and far.

In her keynote, Erin A. Cech provided an overview of the various ways that LGBTIQ+ inequality can show up in the workplace: disadvantages can emerge not only in feelings of social marginalisation, but in a lack of professional respect and opportunities and even negative health and wellness outcomes. She discussed the kinds of work contexts that can amplify or undermine these inequalities, using the science and tech sector as a case, and ended by discussing the cultural “rhetorics of resistance” that employees and organisation leaders sometimes use to block LGBTIQ+-inclusive diversification efforts and strategies for confronting those rhetorics.

In my keynote, I further discussed the implications of heteronormativity at work by discussing the concept of heteroprofessionalism, or the norm that to be professional is to be cisgender and straight. I presented recent research findings demonstrating how disclosing a queer identity can be a double-edged sword, with disclosure perceived as unprofessional while concealment is seen as dishonest. I also addressed the specific challenges experienced bi+ employees, and what can be done to mitigate these.

Then, a panel consisting of Melati Tamsma, Pascale Wautelet, and Roos Beerkens PhD, and moderated by Kshitij Mor reflected on the keynotes, offering insights and examples from their diverse workplaces.

Many thanks to the audience for participating in the symposium, the speakers, moderator, and panelists for sharing their insights, and Christine Holtkamp, Chenhao Zhou and Paula Hoffmann for their tireless efforts behind the scenes towards making the symposium a success!

On behalf of Leiden University, Workplace Pride, and the organising team,

Prof.dr. Jojanneke van der Toorn

www.jvandertoorn.com

Stories from the Heart 2024: Voices of Resilience and Advocacy

Pictured L-R: Numan (he/him) – Malaysia, Akira (she/her) – Japan, Adhil (he/him) – Sri Lanka, Rohin (he/him, they/them) – India, Deborah Abrahams (she/her) – Public Speaking Coach, Building Bridges Program, Bella Aubree (she/her) – Indonesia, Mominul (he/she/they, him/her/them) – Bangladesh

Amsterdam, August 2, 2024 – The Rijksmuseum hosted the 6th “Stories from the Heart” event. Organised by Workplace Pride in collaboration with the RVO and the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the event showcased powerful narratives from LGBTIQ+ activists worldwide. These activists, part of the RVO’s “Building Bridges” program, shared their poignant experiences with an audience that included many Workplace Pride members, some of whom work in the same regions.

The event’s speakers highlighted the unique challenges and triumphs they faced in their respective countries, emphasizing the need for inclusive policies and ongoing advocacy. The event was opened by David Pollard, Executive Director of Workplace Pride, alongside Yakunu van Santen (he/him), Public Affairs at the Rijksmuseum, Gerrie Willems (she/her), Deputy Director of the Asia and Oceania Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Deborah Abrahams (she/her), Public Speaking Coach for the Building Bridges Program.

Speakers and Their Stories

🔸 Mominul (he/she/they, him/her/them) – Bangladesh 

Moon, a non-binary LGBTQIA+ rights activist and founder of Prantoz Foundation, shared their journey from a conservative Sunni Muslim family to becoming a resilient advocate for marginalised communities. Despite familial rejection, Moon has tirelessly championed LGBTQIA+ rights and queer ecology.

🔸 Rohin (he/him, they/them) – India   

A queer, non-binary lawyer, Rohin has played a crucial role in advocating for marriage equality and inclusivity within the Indian judiciary. Their efforts have led to significant changes, including the installation of gender-neutral bathrooms in the Supreme Court and expanded sexual harassment policies.

🔸 Bella Aubree (she/her) – Indonesia

Bella, a young transgender activist and National Coordinator of Inti Muda Indonesia, has been advocating for HIV/AIDS awareness and LGBTQIA+ rights since the age of 15. Her work focuses on spreading awareness and influencing policy changes to support young people living with HIV.

🔸 Akira (she/her) – Japan 

As Deputy Secretary General of Japan Alliance for LGBT Legislation (J-ALL), Akira has been instrumental in the passage of Japan’s LGBTQ+ Awareness law and continues to fight for anti-discrimination legislation and greater social acceptance.

🔸 Adhil (he/him) – Sri Lanka

A feminist and human rights advocate, Adhil has been at the forefront of challenging colonial laws that adversely affect the LGBTIQ+ community in Sri Lanka. As Executive Director of Equite Sri Lanka, he is committed to decriminalisation efforts and raising awareness among authorities.

🔸 Numan (he/him) – Malaysia

Founder of JEJAKA Kuala Lumpur, Numan has significantly expanded the organization, supporting over 10,000 community members through various initiatives. His advocacy work encompasses strategic community engagement and global equality projects.

By sharing their firsthand experiences, the activists offered a profound insight into the local landscapes, cultures, and challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ individuals in their regions. This exchange of perspectives aimed to foster greater empathy and cultural awareness among Workplace Pride members, enhancing their ability to support colleagues and advocate for inclusivity on a global scale.

The “Stories from the Heart” event emphasised the crucial need for ongoing advocacy and inclusive policies. It aimed to create a world where everyone, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, can live with dignity and respect. The shared stories highlighted the resilience and determination of LGBTIQ+ activists and served as a powerful call to action for continued support and solidarity.

#WorkplacePride #StoriesFromTheHeart #LGBTQIAInclusion #HumanRights #QueerVoices #Rijksmuseum #AdvocacyInAction