2025 Workplace Pride Impact Awards Gala

Name: 2025 Workplace Pride Impact Awards Gala
Start: 2025-11-14T18:00:00+01:00
End: 2025-11-15T01:00:00+01:00

November 14 @ 6:00 PM – November 15 @ 1:00 AM

Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating diversity and inclusion at the 2025 Workplace Pride Impact Awards Gala. Mark your calendars for Friday, 14 November, 2025, as we gather at the prestigious Beurs van Berlage in Amsterdam.

You are cordially invited to the 2025 Workplace Pride Impact Awards Gala. Join us for a night of celebration, recognition, and inspiration as we honour those who have championed LGBTIQ+ inclusion in the workplace and beyond.

Event Details:

Date: Friday, 14 November, 2025
Venue: Beurs van Berlage, Damrak 243, 1012 ZJ Amsterdam

Welcome Reception: 18:00 – 19:00
Workplace Pride Impact Awards: 19:00 – 22:30
Celebration Party: 22:30 – 01:00

Theme: “Follow the Rainbow Road to Inclusion”
Dress Code: Black-tie with a touch of Art Deco glamour, tones of the emerald city, old-Hollywood elegance, and of course, bold rainbow symbolism.

Please note: The registration deadline is Friday, 31 October, 2025.

🎉 Global Benchmark Top Scorers.
Advocate Level (90%+): Welcoming new entries into the Advocate level: Kite Pharma EU B.V. and De Nederlandsche Bank. They join established Advocate organisations from previous years, including: Accenture, ING, PwC, RELX Elsevier, Shell, Sodexo, and Unilever.

Ambassador Level (70%-90%): Four new entries have achieved Ambassador status: ABB, Ministerie van EZ, KGG, en LVVN (Ministry of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Climate and GreenGrowth, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature), Robeco, and Tata Steel. They join established Ambassador organisations from previous years, including Aegon Ltd., KLM, Lenovo and The Ministerie van Buitenlandse Zaken (Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands).

🏆 Individual Awards
Volunteer of the Year:
Ally of the Year:
Role Model of the Year:
Media Outreach of the Year:
Network of the Year:
Game Changer of the Year:

Best Dressed:

We are pleased to unveil the 2025 Workplace Pride Impact Awards Nomination List, shining a spotlight on exceptional contributions and accomplishments in the realm of workplace diversity and inclusion. As we embark on the task of selecting our distinguished winners, we take pride in presenting the exceptional finalists below.

2025 Award Categories

Network Award

Winner Network of the Year:

This esteemed award pays tribute to the Workplace Pride member LGBTIQ+ network that has demonstrated remarkable involvement both within their organisation and in the broader community over the past year. Nominate a network that embodies unity, collaboration, and impactful engagement.

The Short List Nominees are:

Arcus – Clifford Chance

Clifford Chance Arcus, the firm’s LGBTIQ+ affinity network, exemplifies Workplace Pride. By fostering inclusive leadership, shaping policies, and increasing representation, Arcus empowers LGBTIQ+ colleagues across international offices. Its events—including the public Arcus Pride Art exhibition—raise visibility, spark dialogue, and influence beyond the firm. Through collaboration, advocacy, and support in challenging regions, Arcus drives lasting change, making it a strong candidate for the 2025 Network Award.

Lenovo Cares: Proud Minds, Stronger Together – Lenovo

In 2025, Lenovo Pride prioritised mental health, connecting LGBTQ+ employees and allies across 23 offices and supporting over 6,000 colleagues. Following the closure of a safe space in Bratislava, Lenovo co-founded the first Community and Integration Center with NGO Inakost, providing vital resources and support. Through initiatives like IDAHOBIT events, the Pride Book Club, and volunteer programs for transgender youth, Lenovo Pride fostered inclusion, resilience, and courage—proving that employee-led action can transform lives inside and outside the company.

DNB Pride (De Nederlandsche Bank) – De Nederlandsche Bank

DNB proudly nominates its LGBTIQ+ network, DNB Pride, for the Network Award. Since 2007, the network has transformed DNB from a conservative organization into a global leader in LGBTIQ+ inclusion. Through campaigns, Pride participation, and executive engagement, DNB Pride raises visibility, fosters community, and drives change. Over the last five years, its courage and advocacy helped raise DNB’s Workplace Pride benchmark score from 22.8% to 100.1%, demonstrating tangible impact.

The Nominees are:

Eaton PRIDE iERG – Eaton

Eaton PRIDE iERG is a global LGBTQ+ inclusion network open to all employees, driving measurable impact across the enterprise. Since 2016, it has engaged over 5,000 members, hosted thousands of attendees at events worldwide, and contributed to Eaton earning full points in the Employee Network section of the 2025 Workplace Pride Global Benchmark. Through strategic programming, thought leadership, and advocacy, PRIDE elevates LGBTQ+ visibility, embeds inclusion into business strategy, and fosters a culture of belonging, courage, and authenticity—transforming workplace culture and inspiring continued focus on inclusion globally.

Rainbow Lions Spain & Portugal – ING

Since 2024, ING Spain & Portugal has advanced LGBTIQ+ inclusion through a partnership with REDI, hosting events like REDI to Connect Employees, which engaged 250+ participants in panels, workshops, and storytelling. Celebrating queer culture with Berkana Bookshop reached 500+ employees, while the Rainbow Lions network thrives on Viva Engage with 670 members. ING also participated in LGBT+@Work and corporate roundtables, amplifying its voice. Initiatives like El armario roto promote authenticity, dialogue, and inclusion, strengthening a respectful workplace culture.

KLM Over the Rainbow – KLM

At KLM, diversity and inclusion are core values, brought to life by the Employee Resource Group KLM Over the Rainbow. This year, the network increased visibility through collaborations like co-sponsoring WorldPride with Delta Air Lines, Pride events, and partnerships with organisations such as Dr. Sarphatihuis. By organising community events, addressing challenging topics, and fostering safe spaces, Over the Rainbow drives inclusion, inspires courage, and ensures all colleagues feel a sense of belonging.

Greater China Elsevier Pride Team – RELX Elsevier

Since its 2023 launch, the Greater China Pride team has grown into a vibrant, multi-city network across Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong, embodying unity, collaboration, and inclusion. Key initiatives include Fan with Flags, celebrating Pride and local craftsmanship; Queer Reads, exploring Chinese queer literature; and international collaboration with the German Pride Team. Through strategic programming, outreach, and storytelling, the team fosters authenticity, allyship, and a more inclusive workplace—even amid increasing pressures on LGBTIQ+ freedoms.

Kaleidoscope – Shell

Kaleidoscope, Shell Australia’s LGBT+ Network, drives inclusion within Shell and beyond. Recognised as 2024’s Most Outstanding Network, key initiatives include the LGBT+ Executive Fellowship with the Pinnacle Foundation and Cracking the Rainbow Ceiling, highlighting intersectional experiences of LGBT+ women. Through collaboration with other ERGs, visionary programming, and strategic partnerships, Kaleidoscope fosters leadership, visibility, and a culture of unity, contributing to Shell Australia’s Gold Tier status in the Australian Workplace Equality Index.

TRUEColors, Shell Brazil – Shell

TRUEColors Brazil exemplifies sustained commitment to inclusion, allyship, and community at Shell. Key initiatives include the Ally Buddy Program, engaging 20% of the workforce in meaningful dialogue, and IDAHOT Week sessions on advancing LGBT+ rights globally. Through Viva Engage, Project Mosaico, and the upcoming TRUEColors Stories video series, the network fosters authentic engagement, inspires change, and strengthens Shell’s culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Wolters Kluwer Pride Network – Wolters Kluwer

The Wolters Kluwer Pride Network, founded in 2023, fosters inclusion, visibility, and belonging for LGBTQIA+ colleagues across 20 countries and 600+ members. Through mentoring, roundtables, and campaigns like Connected in Pride, the network drives policy change, advocates for inclusive benefits, and addresses sensitive topics. Its efforts earned a 50.2% score in the Workplace Pride Global Benchmark, demonstrating courage, impact, and leadership in advancing workplace inclusion.

Volunteer Award

Winner Volunteer of the Year:

Nominate an individual volunteer from a Workplace Pride member organisation who has shown exemplary dedication to fostering LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion. Whether through internal efforts or external outreach, this award celebrates those who go above and beyond to make a meaningful difference.

The Short List Nominees are:

Patrick van Rosmalen – Accenture

As Pride Lead for Accenture Netherlands, Patrick exemplifies volunteerism and inclusive leadership. In a challenging year for the LGBTIQ+ community, he’s been a source of clarity, connection, and inspiration.
Patrick has led numerous impactful initiatives—from Amsterdam Pride events with 150+ attendees to the “Allies in Action” sessions that empower and educate. By sharing his personal story, he fosters authenticity and encourages others to show up fully at work.
His reach is global—collaborating with teams from India to Dublin—expanding Accenture’s Pride programme and sparking allyship across borders. Patrick doesn’t just advocate for inclusion—he lives it. His passion, visibility, and impact make him a standout candidate for Volunteer of the Year.

Thom Widdershoven – KLM

Thom Widdershoven (AFKL Program Director HR Transformation and Board member KLM Over the Rainbow). Thom has been a key force behind KLM’s Over the Rainbow network, known for his positivity, dedication, and ability to unite people. Despite his demanding role as Program Director HR Transformation, he has led impactful initiatives, including the Workplace Pride benchmark and a meaningful volunteer partnership with Dr. Sarphatihuis.
As an OTR board member and D&I lead, Thom has significantly raised visibility and engagement around LGBTIQ+ inclusion at KLM. He leads with courage—starting new projects, supporting the community, and inspiring others through action.
Thom steps down from the board in October 2025, leaving a legacy of inclusion, connection, and compassion. We believe he truly deserves the Workplace Pride Volunteer Award.

Julien van Campen – TU Delft

Julien van Campen, Assistant Professor at TU Delft’s Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, has been a dedicated volunteer with TrueU, the university’s LGBTIQ+ network, since its founding on Coming Out Day 2016. As chair since 2021, he has strengthened visibility, built lasting traditions, and inspired volunteers to keep the network thriving.
Julien has led creative initiatives that have become symbols of inclusion—from the TrueU mug and Purple Friday campaigns to the Pink Closet installation, a touring “pink elephant in the room” that sparks dialogue on coming out. He also fosters connection through inclusive lunches and Safe Space Socials, always infused with his personal warmth.
In 2025, Julien volunteered as ambassador for TU Delft’s first Pride Boat at the Amsterdam Canal Parade, investing his own time and energy while advancing TrueU’s official recognition. His creativity, empathy, and tireless dedication make him an outstanding advocate for inclusion at TU Delft.

The Nominees are:

Jaco Voet – Aegon

Jaco Voet made a powerful impact by organising a boat trip through Amsterdam for 30 LGBTQIA+ refugees, in partnership with Het Wereldhuis/Phoenix. This volunteer initiative created a safe, joyful space for connection, combating isolation and promoting inclusion.
The event resonated both inside and outside the organisation—raising awareness, encouraging colleague involvement, and spotlighting the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ refugees.
With empathy and courage, Jaco stepped into an often-overlooked space, showing that real inclusion means taking bold, compassionate action. His work is a model for how individuals can drive social change and uplift vulnerable communities.

Gert Huizing- CSC

Gert Huizing has significantly impacted the LGBTIQ+ community through his mentorship and advocacy at Workplace Pride. From 2022 to 2024, he guided young professionals in embracing their identities and shared practical strategies for inclusion. Beyond mentoring, Gert volunteers at Workplace Pride events, amplifies LGBTIQ+ voices, and organises Pride activities at CSC, fostering intergenerational connections. In 2024, he represented CSC at the Workplace Pride annual meeting, co-organised a Pride exhibition, and participated in the Amsterdam City Swim for the eighth time, supporting Stichting ALS Nederland. As Chair of the Intertrust Foundation and CSC Gives Back board member, Gert’s leadership, authenticity, and dedication continue to inspire a culture of inclusion both within CSC and the wider community.

Renee Lacroix – Eneco

We, Pride Power @ Eneco, are proud to nominate Renee Lacroix for the Volunteer of the Year award at the 2025 Workplace Pride Impact Awards Gala.
Renee’s courageous leadership and unwavering dedication have transformed LGBTIQ+ inclusion at Eneco and beyond. As the founder and chair of Pride Power, she has driven tangible change in a traditionally conservative organisation—shaping company policy, culture, and ally engagement.
Her commitment to visibility is evident in Eneco’s active presence at Pride events in Rotterdam and Amsterdam, which she has tirelessly supported through sponsorship and promotion. Renee’s openness in sharing her personal story during the launch of Pride Power deeply resonated with colleagues, inspiring empathy and acceptance across the company.
By challenging the status quo and uniting colleagues from across departments, Renee has redefined what inclusion looks like at Eneco. She truly embodies the spirit of the Workplace Pride Impact Awards—demonstrating exceptional leadership, visibility, and courage.
Together with our fellow Pride Power board members, we wholeheartedly believe Renee deserves this recognition for her outstanding impact.

Laura Coman- Lenovo

Laura Coman has redefined volunteer leadership at Lenovo. As part of the Romania All-ERG Chapter, she has been the driving force behind both the Pride and People with Disabilities (PwD) groups across EMEA, turning inclusion from policy into practice.
She led IDAHOBIT celebrations across 23 Lenovo offices, connecting thousands of employees through messages of allyship and awareness. Beyond flawless coordination, Laura creates safe spaces for open dialogue and ensures employee voices are heard at leadership level. Her advocacy has influenced business decisions to better reflect Lenovo’s values of fairness and inclusion.
Under her leadership, Lenovo proudly sponsored Bucharest Pride March—a bold statement of visibility in a less progressive market. Outside Lenovo, she supports NGOs and disability advocates, even raising funds for adaptive kayaks for teenagers with disabilities.
A certified Wellbeing First Aider, Laura provides emotional and mental health support to colleagues with empathy and care. Recognised by Lenovo’s EMEA leaders and shortlisted for the CSEE Diversity Champion Award, Laura continues to be a catalyst for inclusion—building bridges, empowering communities, and making Lenovo a stronger, kinder place.

Aloys Wijngaards – De Nederlandsche Bank

DNB proudly nominates Aloys Wijngaards for the Volunteer Award. Aloys was the driving force behind the first international conference on LGBTIQ+ inclusion within central banks and financial supervisors, uniting over 90 participants from 10 European countries. His leadership and vision not only inspired collaboration but also led to the creation of the Network of Networks—an alliance of advocates from the ECB, Bundesbank, Bank of England, and others, now working together to advance inclusion across Europe.
By securing high-profile speakers such as Klaas Knot and Petra Hielkema, Aloys ensured the event achieved international visibility, positioning DNB as a leader in inclusive finance. His courage in championing dialogue on sensitive topics has inspired lasting structural change and strengthened inclusion across the financial sector.

Ross McKellar – Shell

Ross McKellar, Chair of Proud@Shell UK, is a visible and consistent advocate for LGBT+ inclusion, shaping a culture of belonging across Shell and beyond. Through regular, thoughtful posts on Viva Engage, he sparks open dialogue, encourages allyship, and inspires reflection among colleagues.
Under Ross’s leadership, Proud@Shell UK has become a model of connection and empowerment, earning recognition from the Metro Pride Awards and Employee Network Awards. His advocacy extends externally through LinkedIn, where his personal and impactful posts during Pride and LGBT+ History Month reach wide audiences and drive awareness.
As a Trustee for Diversity Role Models, Ross continues to champion education and inclusion beyond Shell. His authenticity, passion, and leadership make him a powerful force for change—fostering empathy, visibility, and lasting impact across communities.

Alex Bakhuis – Shell

Alex Bakhuis, Co-Chair of Shell Pink Pearl NL, has been a driving force for LGBT+ inclusion across Shell. A passionate advocate and strategic leader, Alex has helped shape a culture of belonging and equity through action, education, and visibility.
As a key member of the Global LGBT+ Forum, Alex led the 2025 International Coming Out Day campaign, inspiring global participation and authentic self-expression. They co-created the Allyship Toolkit and Ally Knowledge 101, now core resources that have transformed ally education and inclusive behaviours company-wide.
Through thoughtful posts on Viva Engage and external advocacy on LinkedIn, Alex connects, educates, and empowers colleagues to act. Their leadership blends empathy with impact—organising events, discussions, and campaigns that spark real change.
Alex exemplifies inclusive leadership, inspiring others to stand up, speak out, and help build a more equitable Shell.

Media Outreach Award

Winner Media Outreach of the Year:

Celebrate the power of positive representation in the media. Nominate a Workplace Pride member who has effectively highlighted LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion through media channels, whether internal or external. Help us acknowledge those who contribute to shaping informed perspectives.

The Short List Nominees are:

You&I Media Campaign – APG

The You&I media campaign, a collaboration between Alliander, ABP, APG, CSC, Signify, and Rituals, amplified authenticity, visibility, and courage. Featuring personal stories from the LGBTQIA+ community and reflections from leadership, the campaign demonstrated that inclusion starts at the top. Reaching up to half a million people, it sparked dialogue, fostered belonging, and showcased the transformative power of storytelling in the workplace.
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/apg_maak-kennis-met-onze-dei-communities-activity-7335942845087834112-O37Y?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAACAxowYBQgpK9r9biFD3kL_HY7DiQMMAOPI

Pride campaign 2025: “All prejudice is silly. Happy Pride” – ING

ING’s 2025 Pride campaign challenged prejudice with empathy, humor, and fresh perspective. At its heart, it highlighted everyday discrimination faced by the LGBTQI+ community, pairing serious issues with lighthearted examples—like comparing being told love is “just a phase” to disliking coriander or being left-handed—delivering a clear message: prejudice is prejudice, however you season it.
Humor opened the door for reflection, conversation, and genuine allyship, while education and awareness reinforced understanding. The campaign reached employees across nine countries, including Poland, Slovakia, and Romania, through Pride events and internal and external channels, achieving over 2 million impressions on global channels alone.
Its impact was profound: internally, it strengthened belonging, sparked honest conversations, and built pride; externally, it showcased ING’s ongoing commitment to equality. Beyond visible symbols, the campaign demonstrated that challenging bias and fostering inclusion is a continuous effort, rooted in empathy, authenticity, and people-centric action.
https://careers.ing.com/en/pride

Proud to be Naomi – KPMG

Since 2022, KPMG has annually released a Proud to be… video celebrating authenticity and inclusion. Naomi’s 2024 video, shared via social media, internal communications, and the Werken bij KPMG website, received widespread positive feedback. In it, she openly discusses identity, allyship, and the challenges of being a visible leader, confronting stigma and inspiring colleagues—particularly those who are more introverted—to embrace their authentic selves.
Naomi’s leadership extends beyond storytelling. As chair of KPMG Pride, she actively drives policy changes and inclusive practices, challenging the status quo and fostering a culture where diversity is valued. Her work has contributed to measurable improvements in employee engagement, retention, and support for diverse talent groups. The video not only amplifies the importance of authenticity but also sparks internal dialogue, encourages reflection, and reinforces KPMG’s commitment to building an inclusive workplace where all employees feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.
https://www.werkenbijkpmg.nl/verhaal/hoe-draagt-naomi-als-voorzitter-van-kpmg-pride-bij-aan-gelijkheid-op-de-werkvloer

The Nominees are:

Lenovo Pride Book Club: From One Book to Many Hearts – Lenovo

In September 2025, Lenovo Pride launched the first EMEA Pride Book Club, bringing over 80 colleagues together to read Fredrik Backman’s Anxious People. The initiative sparked open conversations on mental health, LGBTQ+ experiences, empathy, and human connection—topics often overlooked in the workplace. Pride made participation easy by shipping books across offices, sharing photos, and celebrating a contest winner, while promoting the initiative to 6,000 employees through newsletters and ERG channels.
By featuring a book with queer characters alongside a diverse cast, the Book Club highlighted how LGBTQ+ representation can be integrated naturally into everyday storytelling. Collaboration with other ERGs extended its reach, fostering empathy, understanding, and meaningful connections across the organisation.
What began as a single event has become a quarterly series, ensuring ongoing dialogue about belonging, wellbeing, and inclusion. The Pride Book Club demonstrates that lasting impact often starts with a book, a conversation, and the courage to bring people together.

Pride Collection Relaunch – Nike

Our commitment to building the future of sport centers around serving all athletes*, helping them represent who they are on and off the field of play. In 2025, we relaunched our Pride collection (across North America & EMEA) to raise the voices of two out WBNA athletes, committed to each other and sport. Through their statement sneaker styles Nike shone a light on their story, supporting and uplifting the LGBTQIA+ community in the best way we know how. Timing was intentional and the athletes self-selected to bring their story to the forefront at this time. It was picked up by media and the community across multiple continents.
https://www.nike.com/nl/en/u/custom-nike-air-max-1-by-you-10002133/3257522583

Ally Award

Winner Ally of the Year:

Nominate the individual who has proven to be an extraordinary ally. This award recognises those who have made a significant impact both within their own organisation and externally, demonstrating unwavering support for inclusivity and understanding.

The Short List Nominees are:

Sharon Gaya – Accenture

Sharon exemplifies true allyship through her unwavering commitment to inclusion and diversity at Accenture Netherlands. Beyond logistics for the Pride Network, her leadership has created lasting impact across the organisation. She has led and supported major initiatives such as the Accenture Song Pride Lunch, Roze Zuid-As Winter and Summer events (hosting over 130 attendees), and served on the Pride Means More: Allies in Action panel, sharing her personal insights to foster understanding and connection.
As Service Group sponsor for Accenture Song, Unconscious Bias trainer, and active member of the Cross-Cultural and Gender networks, Sharon has helped shape inclusive policies and training that will influence behaviour for years to come. Her empathy, authenticity, and attention to detail have enabled others to thrive and engage meaningfully. Through quiet yet powerful leadership, Sharon amplifies voices, removes barriers, and creates safe, celebratory spaces—turning inclusion from a statement into a lived, everyday experience at Accenture.

Fiona O’Brien – Lenovo

Fiona: The Fairy Godmother of Lenovo’s LGBTIQ+ Movement. For over a decade, Fiona has been the driving force behind Lenovo’s LGBTIQ+ inclusion, giving the community a voice, a platform, and the confidence to grow. Affectionately known as the “fairy godmother” of the Pride ERG, she was the first to bring LGBTIQ+ issues to Lenovo’s executive board—securing leadership endorsement and sustainable funding that transformed Pride into one of Lenovo’s most impactful networks.
In 2021, Fiona founded the EMEA Diversity & Inclusion Board, embedding accountability and ensuring inclusion became part of Lenovo’s business DNA. Her leadership has enabled funding for Pride and IDAHOBIT events across Europe and Africa, uniting hundreds of employees each year. She also launched the Diversity Manager of the Year Award and championed key initiatives such as self-ID in HR systems and external advocacy in Slovakia.
Fiona’s courage, visibility, and relentless support have inspired allies across the organisation and proven how one determined leader can create lasting change.

Nazha Rustom – De Nederlandsche Bank

Since joining De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB), Nazha Rustom has transformed its approach to LGBTIQ+ inclusion. As Chief D&I, she introduced onboarding sessions, Diversity Day, and the Diversity Breakfast—creating spaces for connection and intersectional dialogue. She pioneered a GDPR-compliant way to measure LGBTIQ+ inclusion in employee surveys, now adopted as best practice by other organisations. Under her leadership, DNB became the first public company to achieve Advocate status in the Global Benchmark, and Nazha now shares these learnings externally to inspire wider change.
Awarded D&I Manager of the Year and listed in MT/Sprout’s Inclusive 30, Nazha makes inclusion visible every day through public speaking, active engagement in DNB Pride, and accessible leadership that encourages others to act. She consistently challenges the status quo, addressing difficult topics with empathy and conviction, and continues to advocate boldly—including lobbying for resources to support Amsterdam Pride 2026.

The Nominees are:

Pier van Loon – Aegon

Pier van Loon has made a groundbreaking impact as the first-ever Ally to join the Proud board, marking a milestone in the organisation’s journey toward deeper inclusion. His leadership has broadened the scope of LGBTQIA+ advocacy, embedding allyship into decision-making and community-building. Through his involvement, Proud has introduced more inclusive programming, strengthened engagement from non-LGBTQIA+ colleagues, and deepened understanding of how allies can meaningfully contribute to equity and belonging.
Pier’s visible role has sent a powerful message across the company: LGBTQIA+ inclusion is everyone’s responsibility. By taking on a formal leadership position, he has normalised allyship as a proactive, strategic force that bridges communities and fosters openness and solidarity.
It took courage and conviction to become the first Ally on the board. Pier stepped into a traditionally LGBTQIA+ space not to speak for others, but to amplify them—showing that true allyship means listening, leading with humility, and driving inclusion through action.

Pascale Wautelet – Avery Dennison

Pascale Wautelet, VP Global R&D & Sustainability at Avery Dennison, is nominated for the 2025 Ally Award for her exceptional leadership and commitment to LGBTIQ+ inclusion. As the inaugural leader of the EMEA Diversity & Inclusion Council and first executive sponsor of the UNITE EMEA ERG, she has created lasting impact by embedding DEI into the company’s culture and giving visibility to LGBTIQ+ voices across regions. Pascale integrates inclusion themes into global R&D townhalls, participated in the 2024 LGBTIQ+ Workplace Inclusion Symposium at Leiden University, and consistently amplifies UNITE’s mission internally and externally. Her visible allyship—as a Corporate Leadership Team member wearing a Pride flag pin and encouraging others to do the same—sends a strong message of solidarity. Courageous in challenging norms and addressing sensitive topics openly, Pascale embodies authentic allyship, inspiring others to make inclusion an everyday reality at Avery Dennison.

Andrew Bester – ING

Andrew Bester, Executive Sponsor of Rainbow Lions and Head of Wholesale Banking at ING, is a powerful and visible global ally whose impact goes far beyond formal structures. As Global Ally, he championed the rollout of ING’s Transition Guidelines across six countries and supported the launch of Rainbow Lions chapters in Singapore and Japan. Under his sponsorship, ING hosted its second Global Rainbow Lions Conference in Warsaw, uniting representatives from 23 countries.
Andrew’s allyship is active and authentic—he delivered a keynote at the Workplace Pride International Conference, engages openly on LinkedIn and Viva Engage, and consistently shows up for local Pride events worldwide. Known for his humility, he acknowledges his privilege and uses his platform to amplify others. His unwavering support—especially during challenging political contexts—demonstrates both courage and conviction.
From Slovakia to the Philippines, colleagues praise Andrew’s authenticity, responsiveness, and dedication to inclusion. He exemplifies allyship in action, making ING a place where everyone truly belongs.

Theo Stevens – Kite Pharma EU B.V.

Theo Stevens, Sr. Director at Kite Pharma, exemplifies allyship in action through visible support and thoughtful leadership. He spearheaded the Pride Crosswalk, a vibrant symbol of inclusion, navigating approvals in a rented building and celebrating its inauguration alongside the signing of the Declaration of Amsterdam. His commitment extends to everyday spaces, converting two restrooms into gender-neutral facilities, ensuring a safer environment for all employees.
Even in quieter ways, Theo demonstrates allyship—personally ensuring the Pride Crosswalk is maintained and celebrated. At WPP events, he amplifies diversity, applauding and documenting moments that uplift others without seeking the spotlight.
As a white, older, heterosexual veteran, Theo’s actions carry added weight, showing that inclusion is everyone’s responsibility. He leads with humility, creating space for others to shine and inspiring colleagues at every level. Through his impact, dedication, and authentic advocacy, Theo sets a standard for inclusive leadership and is a deserving nominee for the Ally Award.

Odette Wagemans – KLM

Odette Wagemans is a true ally to the LGBTIQ+ community at KLM, embodying empathy, visibility, and courage. As a leader, she has supported colleagues through their coming-out journeys with compassion and action, often making the impossible possible. Her unwavering dedication has strengthened Over the Rainbow and advanced inclusion across KLM.
Appointed as one of KLM’s first Inclusive Allies in 2021, Odette leads by example. She frequently shares her personal story about her father’s coming-out, creating space for others to open up and feel seen. Her openness has inspired colleagues to embrace authenticity and shaped a culture of trust and understanding.
Odette’s courage shines through in her willingness to tackle difficult conversations with empathy and vulnerability. She challenges the status quo, listens deeply, and stands by others when it matters most. Through her visible leadership and heartfelt advocacy, Odette sets the standard for allyship at KLM—helping create a truly safe and inclusive workplace for all.

Dennis Utermark – KPMG

Dennis Utermark, Director in KPMG’s IT Assurance department, exemplifies authentic allyship through his unwavering commitment to LGBTIQ+ inclusion and broader inclusion, diversity, and equity initiatives. As an active member of the KPMG Pride board, Dennis has played a key role in organising impactful events that strengthened engagement across the firm and fostered a more inclusive culture.
His influence extends beyond Pride. By sharing his experiences and best practices, Dennis helped establish KPMG’s Neurodiversity Board—broadening the firm’s inclusion efforts to embrace all identities and experiences. This ability to connect and inspire across communities highlights his vision for belonging without boundaries.
Dennis also demonstrates courage by challenging the status quo and addressing difficult topics with honesty and empathy. He consistently advocates for new perspectives, tackles unconscious bias, and models inclusive leadership in action. His passion and authenticity make him an extraordinary ally—one whose impact continues to shape KPMG’s culture for the better.

Saloum Darboe – TU Delft

Saloum Darboe, Diversity Officer at TU Delft’s Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, is a steadfast ally to the LGBTIQ+ community. His courage and unconventional approach enable initiatives that might otherwise never come to life, exemplified by his support for TU Delft’s first-ever Pride Boat. When colleagues proposed the project, Saloum’s immediate endorsement provided legitimacy, momentum, and confidence, helping transform it into a landmark celebration of inclusion.
Beyond high-profile events, Saloum consistently amplifies the voices of queer staff and students, ensuring their presence is recognized across the university. Though he uses a wheelchair, he “stands” firmly beside the community, blending visibility with meaningful support.
His allyship has created lasting impact, embedding diversity and inclusion into the culture of his faculty and inspiring colleagues across TU Delft. Through courage, he fosters visibility; through visibility, he drives enduring impact. Saloum’s leadership strengthens the LGBTIQ+ community and contributes to a more inclusive university for all.

Role Model Award

Winner Role Model of the Year:

Honour the individuals who inspire positive change through their actions. Nominate those who lead by example and contribute to the creation of more LGBTIQ+ inclusive workplaces. Their leadership sets a path for others to follow.

The Short List Nominees are:

Pascal Pichel – Accenture

Pascal embodies inclusive leadership through authenticity, courage, and action. Over his 17-year career at Accenture, he has been a visible and vocal advocate for LGBTIQ+ inclusion, helping create a safer and more equitable workplace. As Senior Sponsor of the Accenture Pride network, he has strengthened visibility across the organisation and with clients while driving external recognition through Workplace Pride’s Global Benchmark.
He also founded Accenture NL’s first Women in Tech programme, promoting gender balance and representation. When recent policy changes risked undermining trust in inclusion efforts, Pascal responded with transparency and empathy—reaffirming Accenture’s commitment to equality and inspiring others to follow. His leadership shows that allyship means visibility and accountability. By listening, speaking up, and standing for others, Pascal empowers colleagues to bring their full selves to work, setting a powerful example for inclusive leadership across Accenture and beyond.

Karen de Lathouder – Eneco

Karen de Lathouder has significantly advanced LGBTIQ+ inclusion at Eneco and beyond. As one of the few openly gay female board members in the Netherlands, she served as the first executive sponsor of Eneco’s queer Business Resource Group, Pride Power, inspiring other board members to support D&I initiatives and providing vital legitimacy and resources. Her advocacy fosters a workplace where employees feel seen, heard, and valued, driving cultural change across the company.
In 2024, Karen made history as the first corporate ambassador for Pride Amsterdam, becoming a visible role model for queer professionals and women in tech. Her academic and professional credentials amplify her credibility, while her openness encourages others to lead authentically.
Karen demonstrates courage by challenging norms in conservative industries, sponsoring Eneco’s first queer BRG, and publicly advocating for inclusion. Her impact, visibility, and bravery make her a deserving nominee for the Role Model Award.

Christoph Blankenhagen – Lenovo

Christoph Blankenhagen, head of Lenovo’s Pride ERG, is a transformative leader whose courage and vision have reshaped inclusion at Lenovo. Under his leadership, the ERG has united colleagues across regions, inspired other global ERGs, and driven systemic change—raising Lenovo’s Workplace Pride benchmark score from 10% to 87%.
Christoph spearheaded initiatives such as embedding self-ID in HR systems, securing equal benefits for same-sex couples in the Middle East, and creating manager training programs to increase awareness and accountability. His work has made inclusion visible in regions where it requires particular sensitivity, telling Lenovo’s LGBTIQ+ story across the Middle East and Africa.
His courage and persistence are evident in tackling difficult conversations with leadership, advocating for gender identity recognition, and driving structural change. Christoph’s leadership is defined by action, resilience, and unwavering commitment to creating a safe, valued, and inclusive workplace. He inspires colleagues to contribute, speak up, and make Lenovo a truly inclusive space for all.

The Nominees are:

Mitzie Ansems – Ministry of Finance

Mitzie is a visible and inspiring leader who has made a lasting impact on PROUD, the Ministry of Finance’s LGBTIQ+ network. Through her decisive character and dedication, she has become a role model both professionally and personally, paving the way for future generations.
Her journey has not been without challenges. As a lesbian woman, she faced significant acceptance issues early in her career, including discriminatory remarks from managers. Despite these obstacles, Mitzie persevered, breaking barriers and fostering a more inclusive environment for colleagues.
Over her five years on the PROUD board, her contributions have strengthened the network, enhanced visibility, and promoted courage and authenticity within the Ministry. Mitzie’s leadership has left a tangible legacy, inspiring others to embrace their identities and advocate for inclusion. As she retires this October, her dedication, influence, and trailblazing spirit make her a deserving nominee for recognition in impact, visibility, and courage.

Dimitri Elve – ING

Dimitri is a transformative leader within the LGBTQI+ community and a standout candidate for the Best LGBTQI+ Role Model Award. As chair of Rainbow Lions NL, he revitalized the ERG, building a diverse board that represents the full spectrum of LGBTQI+ identities, and as vice chair of the Global Rainbow Lions network, he shaped international initiatives. Since 2018, he has contributed to ING’s WPP Benchmark, driving measurable improvements in inclusion, and led the creation of the Rainbow Lions exhibition showcasing 21 years of LGBTQI+ advocacy.
Dimitri’s visibility extends widely: he advises senior stakeholders, mentors HR teams, and shares best practices with major corporations. He represents ING at external conferences, panels, and high-profile events globally.
His courage is evident in challenging norms, advocating for inclusive workplace design, and driving systemic change. Through his impact, visibility, and fearless leadership, Dimitri exemplifies authentic allyship and serves as a powerful role model for LGBTQI+ inclusion.

Olaf Sleijpen – De Nederlandsche Bank

In 2025, Olaf Sleijpen became the first openly gay president of a central bank, setting a historic benchmark for LGBTIQ+ inclusion in finance. His appointment makes him an immediate role model, demonstrating that visibility at the highest levels matters. Olaf actively fosters inclusion at DNB through support for inclusive policies, participation in initiatives like Amsterdam Pride, and mentoring LGBTIQ+ executives via the GEO Foundation. He also chairs the supervisory board of Het Blauwe Fonds, amplifying his impact beyond DNB.
Olaf’s visibility is powerful and authentic: he openly shares his identity in interviews, greets his husband publicly, and participates in Pride events hand in hand, creating a climate where colleagues feel empowered to be themselves.
Courage has defined his career—from bringing his same-sex partner to the Bank for International Settlements in 1997 to consistently choosing authenticity over conformity. Olaf’s leadership shows that being true to oneself at the highest level inspires inclusion and change across the sector.

Edgar Lopez – PVH Corp

Edgar Lopez exemplifies authentic, courageous, and intersectional leadership. As Co-Chair of the LGBTQIA+ Alliance Business Resource Group, he has transformed the workplace into a more inclusive space for all. Under his leadership, Pride Month programming became intersectional for the first time, collaborating with Empowering Women, Asian Alliance, Black, Brown, and Latino Alliance, and Working Families BRGs to honor a wide spectrum of identities.
Edgar’s impact extends beyond the office. At the Amsterdam Canal Parade, he became the face of Tommy Hilfiger’s boat theme, performing as his drag persona, Tina Broome, energizing employees, captivating thousands, and radiating joy and pride. This fearless visibility contributed to Tommy Hilfiger winning Pride Amsterdam’s “Best Corporate Statement” award.
Through his advocacy, performance, and leadership, Edgar uplifts voices, bridges communities, and inspires others to show up fully and unapologetically. He is not just a role model—he is a catalyst for change, demonstrating the power of courage, authenticity, and inclusivity.

Gracia Woutersen – TU Delft

True leadership is measured by the courage to act when change is needed. Gracia Woutersen, Department Manager at TU Delft’s Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, exemplified this when she rewrote a standard secretarial vacancy to prioritize inclusion and openness. Her bold action attracted a more diverse pool of applicants, including members of the LGBTIQ+ community, ensuring the recruitment process welcomed difference rather than reproducing sameness.
When HR questioned her choices, Gracia stood firm, appointing a candidate who would not have fit the “default profile.” This decision proved transformative: the new hire brought fresh perspectives and co-initiated TU Delft’s first-ever Pride Boat, a historic celebration of the LGBTIQ+ community.
Gracia’s leadership created lasting impact beyond her department, improving the working environment, strengthening representation, and inspiring others to act courageously. Through her actions, she has shown that courage fosters visibility, and visibility drives meaningful, enduring change—for TU Delft and the wider LGBTIQ+ community.

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Game Changer of the Year:

We are pleased to unveil the 2025 Members’ Choice – Game Changer Award Nomination List, shining a spotlight on exceptional contributions and accomplishments in the realm of workplace diversity and inclusion. This distinguished award is all about recognising initiatives from among our members that ignite societal impact for the LGBTIQ+ community.

How can I vote?

Mid October, each member received a voting email, granting access to vote for one of the nominations. Be sure to check your inbox for your voting email!

Key Date:

Voting will close at 6pm on Thursday, 6 November – no exceptions will be made.

Please note: Only one vote per organisation is permitted.

2025 Members’ Choice – Game Changer Award Nominees

Over the past two years, Sanne Brons has transformed our Proud community from a grassroots initiative into a strategic force for LGBTQIA+ inclusion and impact. Her clear vision and leadership elevated the ERG into a structured, goal-driven program that inspired other companies to strengthen their own networks. Sanne expanded engagement, visibility, and collaboration—organizing cross-company events that positioned us as a leader in LGBTQIA+ inclusion. Most notably, she infused the ERG’s mission with social impact, launching volunteer initiatives supporting LGBTQIA+ refugees in the Netherlands. Her strategic mindset and courage have redefined what an ERG can achieve and will leave a lasting legacy.

In a world where authenticity still takes courage, six organisations — Alliander, ABP, APG, CSC, Signify, and Rituals — came together to create You&I, a transformative exhibition celebrating identity in all its forms. Turning Amsterdam’s Edge West into a space of visibility and connection, You&I shared powerful stories of LGBTQIA+ experiences, neurodiversity, cultural heritage, and personal journeys. The exhibition sparked empathy and change — from empowering participants to inspiring conversations about inclusion and family support. With workshops, leadership engagement, and a social media reach of up to half a million, You&I went beyond awareness to create genuine impact. Now set to travel across the Netherlands and beyond, it stands as a shining example of collective courage and inclusion in action.

In 2021, ING Australia’s Gender Affirmation Policy ignited a global movement for trans inclusion that evolved from a single initiative into a network of locally tailored frameworks. Inspired by ING Belgium’s 2023 Transition Guidelines, Global HR empowered each country to create its own inclusive approach, reflecting local laws and cultures. Guided by the Rainbow Lions ERG, teams across Australia, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, and Portugal launched comprehensive guidelines in 2024, with more countries to follow. These resources are already in use, providing real support for employees and managers while being shared across ING’s 3,700 inclusion ambassadors. Recognized by REDI in Spain, the Pride Amsterdam Business Club, and the Australian Workplace Equality Index, ING’s journey shows how authentic inclusion grows through collaboration, courage, and cultural humility — moving from “we can’t” to “here’s what we can do together.”

After a tragic terrorist attack closed one of Bratislava’s few safe spaces for the LGBTIQ+ community, Lenovo chose action over silence. Partnering with NGO Inakost, it became a founding supporter of Slovakia’s first LGBTIQ+ Community and Integration Center — a vital refuge offering mental health, financial, and social support to over 1,400 people. Lenovo’s involvement went far beyond funding: employees personally equipped the center with technology and hands-on support, ensuring its sustainability. Building on years of backing Bratislava Pride and advocating for inclusion through the Open for Business petition, Lenovo demonstrated remarkable courage in a conservative environment. The Bratislava Community Center stands as living proof that when compassion meets conviction, businesses can drive real and lasting change.

Born from the International Conference on LGBTIQ+ Inclusion in Central Banks, this growing European coalition unites inclusion advocates from institutions like the ECB, Bundesbank, and Bank of England to share experiences, tackle challenges, and foster cross-border cultural change. With regular meetings, powerful messaging, and sustained collaboration, the network has raised visibility and legitimacy for LGBTIQ+ inclusion in the traditionally conservative financial sector. DNB Pride’s leadership, courage, and commitment have turned a single conference into a movement reshaping inclusion across European financial institutions.

Gracia Woutersen and Emiel Zoutewelle from TU Delft’s Maritime and Transport Department took bold initiative by proposing the university’s participation in the Amsterdam Pride Canal Parade, bypassing lengthy approvals to spark change. Their courage turned initial resistance into enthusiasm, igniting campus-wide impact: improved data collection, annual Workplace Pride Benchmark participation, ICT support for the LGBTIQ+ community, and the strengthening of TrueU, TU Delft’s LGBTIQ+ network. The Pride Boat and subsequent Pride Walk created lasting visibility and energy, establishing a new tradition and uniting the queer community like never before.

The Wolters Kluwer Pride Network’s Parenting Initiative advances LGBTIQ+ inclusion by supporting LGBTQIA+ parents and parents of LGBTQIA+ children—an often-overlooked group. Through panels, mentoring circles, and awareness events, it fosters dialogue on identity, mental health, and belonging. Visible globally and locally via campaigns and digital platforms, the initiative courageously addresses sensitive topics like bullying and discrimination, empowering employees and allies alike. By centering parenting in inclusion efforts, Wolters Kluwer has created a replicable model that strengthens families and transforms workplace culture.

Cast your vote before 6pm, Thursday, 6 November.

Nomination Criteria: Celebrating Excellence and Inclusivity

In the spirit of fairness and transparency, the criteria for the Workplace Pride 2024 Impact Awards have been designed to ensure uniformity across all awards. We kindly request all nominating members to address each criterion in their submissions. These same criteria will be rigorously employed in the selection process to uphold transparency and integrity. Below you will find the criteria breakdown.

Impact (50%)

Nominees should vividly showcase the measurable and tangible significance of their contributions to either LGBTIQ+ or the broader LGBTIQ+ community. How has their endeavour made a substantial difference? Highlighting quantifiable outcomes is essential.

Visibility (30%)

Visibility serves as a barometer of influence. Nominations should shed light on how the nominee’s efforts were within their organisation and beyond. The extent to which their work transcends boundaries matters.

Courage (20%)

Nominate those who dared to challenge the status quo. Highlight the extent to which nominees pushed existing boundaries to achieve their goals. Courageous actions often pave the way for groundbreaking change.

NOMINATION PROCEDURE

1. Submitting Nominations

Any individual or grouping from Workplace Pride member organisations can submit nominations (including for yourself!) via the link below. Please note that submissions must be no more than 300 words and adhere to this format to be considered.

2. Selection Process

Three nominees from each category that best fit the established criteria (above) will be pre-selected by a jury consisting of Workplace Pride Communities’ representatives and published on the Workplace Pride website. The LGBTIQ+ 2025 Members Choice – Game Changer Award will be voted on by the members after the nominations have been received.

3. Announcement Winners

The winners will be selected by Workplace Pride Advisory Board Members and be announced at the Impact Awards Gala at Beurs van Berlage in Amsterdam on Friday, 14 November, 2025.

Submission Deadline

All nominations must be received by 30 September. This deadline ensures that every deserving candidate gets their rightful chance to be recognised.

Take a look at last years photos!

View All Photos Here

2025 Workplace Pride Impact Awards Gala

2025 Award Categories

Nomination Criteria: Celebrating Excellence and Inclusivity

Impact (50%)

Visibility (30%)

Courage (20%)

NOMINATION PROCEDURE

Submission Deadline

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