Amsterdam, 6 June 2025 – Despite a train strike that disrupted travel across the Netherlands, more than 290 participants showed remarkable determination to gather at the Royal Tropical Institute (KIT) in Amsterdam for the 2025 Workplace Pride International Conference. The event, themed “Beyond Pride – Building a Roadmap for Inclusion,” brought together voices from around the globe for a powerful day of dialogue, inspiration, and action.

The morning opened with moderator Nadine Ridder setting the tone for a conference that promised not just connection, but courageous conversations. David Pollard, Executive Director of Workplace Pride, followed with a welcome that acknowledged both the logistical challenges and the unwavering commitment of attendees to be part of a movement that is shifting paradigms worldwide.

Setting the stage for the day, Andrew Bester, Head of Wholesale Banking at ING, delivered a galvanising keynote. His message was clear and urgent: “We must move beyond symbolic gestures and build a culture of obsessive inclusion.” Bester challenged leaders to embed LGBTIQ+ inclusion deeply within the DNA of business decision-making, especially during turbulent global times.

The global lens sharpened during the Asia-Pacific Town Hall, where virtual speakers from across the region joined local participants in Amsterdam for a compelling exchange. Panelists included Hanim Hanzah (Foundation Board Member), Pratibha Priyadarshini (VP & Head of HR, Shell India), Tiernan Brady (Global Head of Inclusion, Clifford Chance), and Yanui Peng (Founder, China Rainbow Collective). Their rich and diverse insights illuminated the complex interplay of cultural norms, legal frameworks, and workplace realities. The session offered a candid look at both the strides made and the persistent hurdles facing LGBTIQ+ inclusion across Asia.

Following a morning networking break, attendees dove into a series of breakout sessions tackling urgent and diverse themes. These included: the realities of Rainbow Families in countries with restrictive laws; strategies for engaging operational staff on the work floor; the role of impactful leadership in advancing DEI goals; and the crossroads of inclusion and belonging in a world where identities are increasingly under pressure. Sessions like “Activated Allyship” offered practical tools for turning intent into action, while “Staying the Course” examined how to maintain momentum amid DEI pushback in various sectors.

After a well-earned lunch and more opportunities to visit the Career Pathfinder area—where inclusive employers from across the network showcased opportunities for LGBTIQ+ professionals—the conference resumed with a keynote by Karen de Lathouder, COO of Eneco. Her speech focused on sustainability and inclusion as interlinked drivers of organisational change.

The afternoon spotlight turned to the EMEA Town Hall, where regional leaders sparked a dynamic and thought-provoking dialogue on the future of workplace inclusion across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Panelists Fiona O’Brien (Lenovo), Sliman Abu Amara (EY Netherlands), Céline Lammers (Shell), and Patrick Oyoo (Open for Business EA) brought diverse perspectives to the table. Their conversation explored key themes such as adapting to shifting legislation, the critical role of corporate accountability, and the need for transparent, values-driven leadership in fostering LGBTIQ+ inclusion across varied cultural and legal landscapes.

Later in the day, the second round of breakout sessions underscored the power of personal storytelling and the deep impact of lived experience. Storytellers Merel Ritsma, Graham Sparks, Dave Heilbron—who was joined by new BAM Infra Nederland colleague Amir, a Pride carpenter who fled his home country for simply being himself—and Evelien Starren shared moving narratives that brought the human dimension of inclusion to the forefront. One session delved into the idea that visibility alone is not enough, challenging participants to consider how true inclusion also demands safety, belonging, and systemic support for marginalised communities.

The final segment of the day, the Americas Town Hall, brought the global narrative full circle. Moderated by Michiel Kolman, the panel featured Arjen van den Berg, Dutch Ambassador to Central America, Karl Stuart of TD Synnex, and Mia Beaudoin-Dion from Lumentum (USA). Together, they shared insights into the distinct challenges and emerging innovations across North and South America. The discussion made one thing clear: while the paths to inclusion may vary across regions, the call for intersectional and sustainable strategies resonates worldwide.

The Closing Plenary brought thoughtful reflections from Joanny Lijbers, Vice President at Unilever, who spoke of the moral and business imperatives for inclusive leadership. She was followed by Christiaan Rebergen, Secretary-General of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, whose remarks underlined the Dutch government’s commitment to advancing LGBTIQ+ human rights at home and abroad.

As the day came to a close, David Pollard returned to thank all participants and reflect on the enduring spirit required to build a roadmap for inclusion—one rooted in persistence, partnership, and passion.

Continuing the conference’s tradition of giving back, Workplace Pride made a donation in lieu of speaker gifts to a cause that truly reflects the community’s values. This year, a cheque for €500 was presented to Merel Ritsma (She/Her), Board Member of Spread The Word Intersex Collective—a meaningful gesture honoring her advocacy and the vital work of the organization.

Additionally, thanks to the generosity of the conference delegates, over €1,400 was raised throughout the day, further supporting initiatives that drive inclusion forward.

The event concluded with a lively networking reception, where conversations from the day flowed freely over drinks, inspiring new connections and shared commitments toward a more inclusive future.

A Movement in Motion

The 2025 Workplace Pride International Conference was more than a gathering—it was a powerful testament to the resilience and innovation of the global LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion movement. As moderator Nadine Ridder poignantly stated, “Being here is a privilege. In many parts of the world, this type of event would be unthinkable.”

By bringing together senior leaders, DEI professionals, and advocates from across continents, this year’s conference made it clear: the world is ready to go beyond pride—and the roadmap is being drawn right now.