A powerful first step for Asian LGBTIQ+ inclusion

On 25 July, something meaningful happened at The Social Hub Amsterdam City.

For the first time, Asian Pride and Workplace Pride came together to spotlight Asian LGBTIQ+ inclusion in the workplace.

What started as a shared idea became a room filled with stories, insight, and connection.

Opening with global perspective

We were honoured to welcome Asi Mamanee, Ambassador of Thailand to the Netherlands, as keynote speaker.

His remarks set the tone for the afternoon:

  • Inclusion requires cultural understanding

  • Progress looks different across regions

  • Dialogue builds bridges

He reminded us that workplace equality does not exist in isolation. It reflects history, culture, and lived experience.

Panel 1: Asian Wisdom – Alternative Approaches to Inclusion

This discussion challenged assumptions.

Panelists shared how:

  • Cultural values influence leadership styles

  • Community often outweighs individual identity

  • Inclusion strategies must respect local realities

The key takeaway?

You cannot copy-paste Western inclusion models into Asian contexts and expect impact. Real change requires listening first.

Panel 2: Progress in Motion – Wins and Woes in APAC Inclusion

The second panel focused on lived experience.

Speakers explored:

  • Migration and identity across borders

  • The complexity of being Queer and Asian at work

  • Moments of visibility — and moments of silence

You could feel the honesty in the room.

Success stories inspired hope.
Challenges reminded us that progress is uneven.

But one theme stood out: community creates resilience.

More than a symposium

The networking reception that followed extended the conversation.

New connections formed.
Shared experiences surfaced.
Collaborations began.

This inaugural symposium was not just an event.

It was:

  • A platform for underrepresented voices

  • A bridge between cultures

  • A signal that Asian LGBTIQ+ inclusion deserves global attention

The conversation does not end here.

It continues in boardrooms, ERGs, leadership teams, and across borders.

What will you take forward into your own workplace?

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