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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.

Join the Young@Workplace Pride Mentorship Program!

19 September 2024
John Ryan
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Categories: Member, Mentorship Program, News, Young

[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

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

Welcome to your Member Dashboard!

16 April 2024
John Ryan
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Categories: Member, Members Exchange, News

We are happy to announce the launch of our Member Dashboard, your exclusive gateway to maximising your experience within our vibrant community. As valued members, your seamless interaction and engagement are paramount to us, and our dashboard is designed to cater to your unique needs.

The Member Dashboard offers many tailored resources, toolkits, event highlights, learning modules, and member exchanges, all designed specifically with you in mind. You will find everything you need to enhance your participation and make the most out of your membership.

To access your Member Dashboard, simply log in using your member-only login details. These are currently being rolled out over the next few weeks. Once logged in, you will be greeted with a wealth of opportunities to learn, and grow within our community.

We are excited to embark on this journey with you and look forward to seeing you thrive within our community through the use of your Member Dashboard.

Welcome to your enhanced membership experience!

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.

Opinion Piece: Empowering Women on Their Path to Leadership – How Can We Accelerate Change?

7 March 2024
John Ryan
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Categories: Member, news, News, women@workplacepride

Author: Ally of the Year Impact Award Winner Terhi Kivinen  (She/Her), Chief Communications Officer at Kemira

[Pictured L-R] Aad Buis (He/Him), Workplace Pride Board Member, Ally of the Year Impact Award Winner Terhi Kivinen (She/Her) – Kemira, Leon Pieters (He/Him) Workplace Pride Board Member.

When I started as a Communications Trainee in Nokia Telecommunications in May 1994 the work and the world were different. We were excited to receive emails. The wonder of modern technology at the office was the fax. Travelling for work was considered glamorous. We used phones to call people. And we did not have so many women or other minorities in leadership positions. Now, nobody likes emails, fax is not a thing anymore, travelling means long queues and endless waiting, and phones are used for mostly other things than calls. But what remains is the fact that there still are fewer minorities in leadership positions. 

Ally of the Year Impact Award Winner – Terhi Kivinen

There has been positive development over these three decades and many organisations have recognised the benefits of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging but this is not the case in all organisations. Diversity tends to go down in line with seniority.¹ Women and LGBTIQ+ employees may feel that they need to provide additional proof points of their competence to advance in the workplace.² At the same time we have data from various studies showing the companies with diverse leadership (gender and otherwise) outperform the ones without.³ Investors can do the math and are now looking into companies’ diversity practices and pushing the change to happen. It is interesting to see if this finally makes the difference in improving women’s and other minorities’ representation in the leadership pipeline. Usually, money has a great deal of influence. 

What do people in underrepresented groups in general want from their careers or the workplace? In my experience they want the same as everyone else wants: respectful treatment, safe workplace, meaningful work, continuous feedback, flexibility, development and career opportunities. Inclusive leadership culture can create a work environment where everyone can thrive and have opportunities to grow and advance to the very top positions of the organisation. 

What are some concrete actions organisations and all of us already in leadership positions can take to be more inclusive? We can all examine our own biases (yes, we all have them) and be allies, mentors and sponsors for leadership minorities. We can widen the candidate pools when hiring, support internal growth opportunities, offer leadership training, and ensure equitable promotion policies. We can increase flexibility, analyse and correct gender pay gaps, reward people who drive change and help build psychological safety. 

Role models are also helpful. This can be more difficult especially for the LGBTIQ+ colleagues who may not have so many role models to choose from. I have learned a great deal about leadership by observing my various bosses navigating their jobs and leading people and organisations, some very big and some smaller ones. I do not have statistically meaningful study results to share with you on this but based on my observations and experience, kindness, authenticity and inclusiveness make a more impactful leadership style. The “what” is important but the “how” is the key. I have also had some great mentors on the way who have shared their wisdom and believed in my abilities. One great piece of advice I have received from one of them was to be bold, say yes to opportunities and apply for interesting roles even if I didn’t check 100% of all the boxes. No need to be perfect. If you don’t apply you will never get the roles you want. 

My own career path has been long and varied and each job on this journey has been a different kind of a learning experience. It has of course not always been smooth sailing. I have encountered various issues over the years that may or may not have been because of my gender. To be fair I have also received a lot of help and also asked for it. Without the support of other people like great bosses and colleagues, my partner and family and even the Finnish system that provided excellent and affordable childcare it would have been much harder.  I have tried my best to pay that forward by being an ally and by supporting for example young professionals and LGBTIQ+ colleagues. In 2023 I received the Workplace Pride Ally of the Year Impact Award which was of course a huge honor. Even more important for me personally was the fact that I was nominated by my Kemira colleagues for this award and really felt that my support and allyship had been appreciated.  It is also a reminder how important visible leadership support is for advancing inclusion, in this particular case for our Kemira LGBTIQ+ community but that applies to everyone else equally. 

What can women and LGBTIQ+ community members (and every other underrepresented group in leadership) do to overcome the obstacles and advance to the leadership? Invest in education and continue learning and developing throughout your careers. Stay up with trends and keep enhancing skill sets. Build strong professional networks. Seek mentors and sponsors who can give guidance and open doors. Connect with and support others. Drive change at the workplace and join companies who make DEI a priority. Develop leadership skills such as strategic thinking or communication. Be bold and curious, speak up, learn to negotiate and to be assertive. Ask for help and say yes to new challenges. Take on high-visibility projects and roles. And always foster an inclusive environment once you have made it to the leadership and be an ally to others. 

Terhi Kivinen

Chief Communications Officer, Kemira Oyj

1. Women in the Workplace 2023 report | McKinsey

2. LGBTQ leaders speak out and look ahead | McKinsey

3.  Workforce diversity boosts performance (blackrock.com)

Exciting Opportunity: Join the Board of Young@Workplace Pride!

20 February 2024
John Ryan
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Categories: Member, news, News, Workplace Pride Communities, Young

Are you a dynamic individual aged 18-35, employed by a Workplace Pride member, and deeply committed to advancing LGBTIQ+ inclusion in professional environments? Young@Workplace Pride invites you to join our team as a Board Member! Please note that this is a voluntary position.

Young@Workplace Pride is a vibrant community within Workplace Pride dedicated to empowering young LGBTIQ+ professionals. Through a series of engaging events and initiatives, we foster connection and provide crucial support to individuals navigating their authentic selves within workplace settings.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Participate in approximately half an hour of board-related activities per week, with additional engagement during event periods.
  • Contribute to the organization and execution of events, fostering an inclusive environment for all participants.
  • Facilitate our mentorship program, offering guidance and support to fellow young professionals.
  • Leverage networking opportunities to enhance personal and professional growth.

Why Join Us?

As a Board Member, you’ll gain invaluable experience in event coordination, mentorship facilitation, and networking within the LGBTIQ+ professional community. This role offers a platform to make a tangible impact on workplace inclusion while honing your leadership skills.

How to Apply:

If you’re passionate about driving positive change and possess relevant experience, we encourage you to submit a brief motivation to young@workplacepride.org. Share why you’re motivated to join our board, outline your relevant skills and perspectives, and highlight how you’ll contribute to our mission.

Deadline for Applications: March 4th, 2024.

Please note that this is a voluntary position. Learn more about Young@Workplace Pride at https://workplacepride.org/youngwp/. We eagerly anticipate your application!