Event

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.

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

17 January 2025
Info Workplace
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Categories: Annual Members Meeting, Event, Free to Be Me, Global Benchmark, Member, News, news

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

7 January 2025
John Ryan
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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.

Stories from the Heart 2024: Voices of Resilience and Advocacy

7 August 2024
John Ryan
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Categories: Event, Member, News, Stories From The Heart, Workplace Pride Communities
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

Kite Pharma signs the Declaration of Amsterdam

6 June 2024
John Ryan
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Categories: Declaration of Amsterdam, Event, News, news

Amsterdam 6 June, 2024. Kite Pharma, a pioneering leader in the field of cell therapy, have officially signed the Declaration of Amsterdam during the Pride Daybreaker event at their Hoofddorp office. This significant occasion emphasised the company’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace environment.

Chris Crowell – VP,  Operations – Site Head EU Manufacturing Kite Pharma with David Pollard Executive Director Workplace Pride.

As a proud member of Workplace Pride, Kite Pharma’s decision to endorse the Declaration of Amsterdam highlighted their dedication to equality and acceptance within their corporate culture. The Declaration calls for comprehensive LGBTIQ+ inclusion in workplaces across the globe, aligning with Kite Pharma’s values of diversity, respect, and innovation.

Chris Crowell, Vice President of Operations and Site Head EU Manufacturing at Kite Pharma, signed the Declaration alongside David Pollard, Executive Director of Workplace Pride.

“In these challenging times, it is important that employers take a visible stance on their support for LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion. By signing the Declaration of Amsterdam, Kite Pharma is raising the bar on their commitment, not just within their own organisation, but also externally,” said David Pollard, Executive Director, Workplace Pride.

Kaneesha A. Nadal (They/Them) Cell therapy specialist I+ at Kite Pharma

The signing ceremony took place during the Pride Daybreaker event, a celebration dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion within the workplace. The event was attended by key members of Kite Pharma’s leadership team, representatives from Workplace Pride, and other inclusion groups committed to fostering inclusivity in the corporate world. It featured speeches, networking opportunities, and a discussion on the importance of LGBTIQ+ inclusion in the workplace.

Kite Pharma’s endorsement of the Declaration of Amsterdam was not just a symbolic gesture but a tangible action that demonstrated their ongoing commitment to creating a workplace where everyone could thrive. Kite Pharma hopes that this move would inspire other organisations to follow suit and prioritise inclusivity in their own workplaces.

About Kite Pharma

Founded in 2009 as a pioneer in cell therapy research, Kite’s leadership position in the immuno-oncology space was solidified with our research and development agreement with the National Cancer Institute in 2012 and when our commercial manufacturing site opened in El Segundo in 2016. Since our acquisition by biopharma leader Gilead Sciences in October 2017, our combined strength has accelerated the advancement of our pipeline, including the launch of YESCARTA® (axicabtagene ciloleucel) and TECARTUS® (brexucabtagene autoleucel), and has expanded the impact of our strategic partnerships.

As an independent operating company since 2019, we prioritise innovative R&D with the full resources, capabilities, and trust of Gilead. As a vital part of Gilead — a founding member of the Foundation for the NIH’s Partnership for Accelerating Cancer Therapies — we are devoted to advancing the understanding of cell therapy as a transformational treatment option for cancer. The combined strength of Kite and Gilead allows us to remain innovative, agile, and ambitious in our mission to keep improving the lives of people with all types of cancer.

Demystifying LGBTIQ+ Workplace Inclusion in India: A Step Towards Equality

16 April 2024
John Ryan
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Categories: Declaration of India, Event, Member, News
Pictured from left to right: Shubha Chacko, Solidarity Foundation; Priyanka Shetty, Pride Circle Foundation; David Pollard, Workplace Pride; Viswanath PS, Randstad India; Lyn Lee, Shell; Geetha Ramadevi, Relex India; and Zahara Fernandes, Accenture India Operations.

Bengaluru, March 21st, 2024 – In a nation where tradition, modernity, and economic prowess intersect, the journey towards LGBTIQ+ inclusion in the workplace is not just an evolution; it is a critical societal transformation. Nowhere is this more evident than in India, where workplaces are grappling with the challenges and opportunities of fostering diversity and inclusivity.

Bengaluru played host to the second conference organised by Workplace Pride on March 21st, 2024, titled “Demystifying LGBTIQ+ Workplace Inclusion in India.” This landmark event, in collaboration with Shell, a leading member of Workplace Pride, brought together a diverse array of stakeholders—from major private and public sector employers to international experts and representatives from India’s LGBTIQ+ Civil Society.

The conference, moderated by Pratibha Priyadarshini, Vice President and Head of HR at Shell Companies in India, set the stage for insightful discussions and actionable strategies. The day began with a resounding call to action, emphasising the collective responsibility in driving meaningful change. International and local perspectives were shared by David Pollard, Executive Director of Workplace Pride, and Zainab Patel, Board Member of Workplace Pride, providing a global context and shedding light on India’s unique challenges.

Navigating Challenges Ahead

Facilitated by Pratibha Priyadarshini, a diverse group of industry leaders engaged in a stimulating conversation titled “Navigating Challenges Ahead: Fostering Unity between Employers and Communities.” The panel comprised representatives from organisations, such as Zainab Patel of Pernod Ricard, Debanjali Sengupta from Shell Lubricants, Akanksha Agarwa representing Unilever, and Geetha Ramadevi of Elsevier. Together, they delved into the multifaceted obstacles surrounding the inclusion of LGBTIQ+ individuals in work environments. From navigating policy implementation to fostering cultural shifts, the discussion highlighted the crucial role of collective efforts and allyship in overcoming these challenges.

From the insightful panel moderated by David Pollard, featuring voices from Pride Circle Foundation, Solidarity Foundation, Randstad, and TU Delft, to the thought-provoking presentations by Zahara Fernandes of Accenture India Operations, each session delved deep into critical topics surrounding LGBTIQ+ inclusion in the workplace.

IMG_1561
View all conference photos here.

Actionable Breakouts:

Breakout sessions provided platforms for in-depth exploration and practical solutions. From measuring success and implementing inclusive policies to leveraging allies and connecting business to civil society, attendees engaged in constructive dialogue aimed at driving tangible change.

During the concluding plenary, moderators highlighted pivotal insights from breakout sessions, underscoring the significance of collaborative efforts and mutual learning. The diplomatic panel, comprising representatives such as Ewout de Wit, Consul-General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, James Godber, Deputy Head of Mission at the British Deputy High Commission in Bengaluru, and Hilary McGeachy, Consul-General of Australia in Bengaluru, provided invaluable perspectives on worldwide initiatives concerning LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion.

Commitment and Declaration of India

The conference culminated with the signing of the Declaration of India, symbolising a united front in advancing LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion across the nation. View the Declaration of India here.

“One of the things that really inspires me about the Workplace Pride community is how open people are to share ideas, successes and challenges. It makes progress happen so much quicker. So it’s a privilege for Shell to be hosting this conference and to be one of the first signers of the Declaration of India.” – Lyn Lee, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, Shell

Conclusion

The conference on LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion served as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and tangible commitments. As participants departed with renewed energy and resolve, the event underscored the power of collective action in shaping a more inclusive and equitable workplace landscape in India.

The journey towards LGBTIQ+ inclusion in Indian workplaces is far from over, but with each conference, declaration, and commitment, the path becomes clearer. As the organisers Workplace Pride extend our gratitude to all who contributed, the momentum towards a more inclusive future continues to build, paving the way for a workplace where diversity is not just embraced but celebrated.

Workplace Pride Conference Opening Reception Illuminated by Lamp Lighting Ceremony

5 April 2024
John Ryan
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Categories: Declaration of India, Event, Member, News
Pictured from left to right David Pollard (He/Him) Executive Director Workplace Pride, Ewout de Wit (He/Him), Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Lyn Lee (She/Her) Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer at Shell, Hilary McGeachy (She/Her), Australian Consul General Bengaluru, James Godber (He/Him), Deputy Head of Mission, British Deputy High Commission Bengaluru

Workplace Pride Conference Opening Reception

On the evening of March 20th, amidst the elegant ambiance of Shangri-La Bengaluru, distinguished guests gathered to mark the commencement of the Workplace Pride Conference: “Demystifying LGBTIQ+ Workplace Inclusion in India.” Hosted by Shell, this exclusive by-invitation-only networking reception welcomed individuals from civil society, including representatives from the diplomatic corps such as Hilary McGeachy (She/Her), Australian Consul General Bengaluru; Ewout de Wit (He/Him), Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; and James Godber (He/Him), Deputy Head of Mission, British Deputy High Commission Bengaluru. Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer at Shell Lyn Lee (She/Her) joined David Pollard (He/Him) to open the reception.

Mr David Pollard (He/Him), Executive Director of Workplace Pride at the opening reception for the “Demystifying LGBTIQ+ Workplace Inclusion in India” Conference.

The evening commenced with the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony. Symbolising enlightenment, unity, and auspicious beginnings, this ceremony set a profound tone for the evening’s proceedings. As the dignitaries illuminated the lamp, it signified a collective commitment towards fostering inclusive workplaces and advocating for diversity across the region.

This reception served as a precursor to the main event, aiming to unite participants of the conference, members of the diplomatic corps, local LGBTIQ+ civil society organisations, and representatives from both local and international employers operating within the region. It provided a platform for meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and celebration of strides made in advancing workplace inclusivity.

As part of the Workplace Pride Conference legacy, we anticipate further enriching discussions and collaborative efforts toward creating an environment where every individual can thrive authentically, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Together, let us illuminate the path towards a more inclusive future.

WORKPLACE PRIDE FOUNDATION CELEBRATES A SUCCESSFUL ANNUAL MEMBERS MEETING

30 January 2024
John Ryan
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Categories: Annual Members Meeting, Event, Member, News, news

Amsterdam, January 30, 2024 – The Workplace Pride Foundation is pleased to share the success of the Annual Members Meeting and New Year’s Reception, which took place on Thursday, January 25th, 2024, at the EDGE Amsterdam West. The event was hosted by Workplace Pride Partner APG and Member Intertrust Group, a CSC Company, at their EDGE West location in Amsterdam. Exclusive to Workplace Pride members, the meeting provided a comprehensive overview of the Foundation’s achievements in 2023 and outlined exciting plans for the upcoming year, 2024.

WhatsApp Image 2024-01-30 at 14.56.23
Annual Members Meeting and New Year’s Reception

The Annual Members Meeting served as a dynamic platform for members to engage in a vibrant exchange, commemorating the Foundation’s successes over the past year. The meeting showcased a detailed overview of initiatives, accomplishments, and impactful work carried out in 2023. Additionally, the Foundation unveiled ambitious plans and projects scheduled for 2024, fostering a sense of shared commitment among attendees.

Download Presentation

David Pollard, Executive Director of Workplace Pride Foundation, expressed gratitude for the active participation:

“A heartfelt thank you to APG and CSC-Intertrust for graciously hosting our Annual Members Meeting and  New Year’s reception in their unique offices! It was a delight to present the Foundation to both our longstanding and new members, experiencing that shared sense of mission we all hold dear. The future, where LGBTIQ+ individuals can authentically be themselves at work, is a collective effort, and we are much stronger together.”

Exploring the Human Side of AI During Transgender Awareness Week

10 January 2024
John Ryan
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Categories: Event, News, Tech@WorkplacePride, Trans+

November 2023

Amsterdam, Netherlands – Trans+@Workplace Pride and Tech@Workplace Pride recently collaborated to host a thought-provoking event at Workplace Pride Member Google Nederland, focusing on the human side of artificial intelligence (AI) during Transgender Awareness Week.

Transgender Awareness Week, observed from November 13 to November 19, aims to enhance the visibility of transgender individuals and raise awareness about the challenges faced by this community. To contribute to this cause, Trans+@Workplace Pride and Tech@Workplace Pride organised a compelling session on the impact of AI on marginalised groups, with a special focus on the transgender community.

The event, held on November 16, brought together approximately 70 individuals in person and 95 online, eager to delve into the complexities of AI and its intersection with social issues. The theme, “The Human Side of AI,” featured distinguished speakers who shared their expertise and insights.

Key Speakers and Topics:

Jasmijn (she/they) – Senior Research Scientist, Google DeepMind

Jasmijn (she/they), holds a PhD and MSc in AI from the University of Amsterdam, and a BSc in AI with a linguistics minor from Utrecht University. With expertise in AI and natural language processing, Jasmijn has contributed to various areas, such as automatic translation (e.g., Joey NMT) and explainability (e.g., the Language Interpretability Tool). Jasmijn led a discussion on fostering inclusivity and gender fairness in AI, especially in language technology.

Danny Belitz (he/him) – Senior Data Scientist and Senior Consultant for Responsible AI, IBM

As the second speaker, Danny Belitz (he/him) serves as an active advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. In his role as a Senior Data Scientist and Senior Consultant for Advanced Analytics & Responsible AI at IBM, Danny shared valuable insights during the event. He emphasised a human-centred approach in technological solutions by integrating Responsible AI at the core and applying best practices from the design phase onward. With expertise in conversational design and data storytelling, Danny contributes to making AI more trustworthy, focusing on enhanced explainability, transparency, and equity.

   Link to the presentation

Marion Mulder (she/her) – FutureMaker and Digital Strategist, MuldiMedia

Marion Mulder (she/her), discussed the concept of simplifying and improving technologies for a more enjoyable and human-focused experience. Actively engaged in shaping a world aligned with her vision, Marion advocates for “Making Digital Technology Work For You.” Holding board positions at diversity organisations, including the Gaykrant and Workplace Pride (co-founder), Marion serves as a speaker on topics like GenderFreeTech, InclusiveTech, and AI ethics. In her daily work across diverse digital roles and projects, she finds joy in assisting individuals and organisations in embracing and leveraging digital technology.

   Link to the presentation

Event Highlights:

The event concluded with a lively Q&A session, addressing questions about the challenges and dangers posed by AI in our daily lives. A festive buffet provided by Google Netherlands and the Trans+ and Tech@Workplace Pride Community allowed participants to network and reflect on the insightful discussions.

Trans+@Workplace Pride and Tech@Workplace Pride extend their gratitude to the speakers, participants, and Google Netherlands for their support in making this event a success.

Workplace Pride Affirms Commitment to Inclusivity by Signing #WorkingPositively Pledge

1 December 2023
John Ryan
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Categories: Event, Member, news, News

Amsterdam 1st, 2023

Country General Manager IBM Johan Heij,  Kyra Keybets, Director of Staff at the Social and Economic Council, and David Pollard Executive Director Workplace Pride

Workplace Pride has reaffirmed its dedication to creating inclusive environments by signing the #WorkingPositively Pledge. Spearheaded by Workplace Pride Member IBM in the Netherlands, this initiative encourages employers to be role models in supporting individuals with HIV and chronic illnesses.

Prominent Workplace Pride members, including ING, Shell, Unilever, KLM, Booking, and Rijksoverheid, have joined the #WorkingPositively initiative, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering diverse and supportive workplaces. This pledge underscores Workplace Pride’s ongoing efforts to champion inclusivity, emphasising the importance of prioritising the health, dignity, and rights of every individual in the workforce.

The initiative, part of the international Working Positively movement, aims to create a stigma-free, respectful, safe, and inclusive work environment for people with HIV and other chronic conditions. On World AIDS Day, Workplace Pride members proudly shared their commitment, marking the 35th commemoration of the day with the theme “Remember and Commit.”

David Pollard, Executive Director of Workplace Pride, signed the #WorkingPositively declaration on behalf of Workplace Pride Foundation, emphasising the importance of a more inclusive working environment. 

Companies are encouraged to join #WorkingPositively Netherlands and sign the declaration to contribute to a stigma-free work environment for individuals living with HIV and other chronic conditions. More information can be found https://www.workingpositively.hiv/

#WorkplacePride #WorldAidsDay #WorkingPositively #InclusiveIBM #Aids #Inclusion