WorkPride

Speakers

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  Benjamin Firth

  Communications and Engagement Leader, LGBT+ Network Co-Chair
  EY UK

  Ben is Communications and Engagement Leader at EY in the UK. He’s also Co-Chair of Unity, EY’s LGBT+ employee network and a trustee of the charity, MindOut. Ben has over 15 years of corporate communications experience, gained through a variety of sectors in the UK and Australia. He’s passionate about working with leaders to drive positive change, business outcomes and inclusive cultures – all through compelling communication. Prior to EY, Ben spent eight years at the Financial Services Authority and Financial Conduct Authority working in internal and change communications throughout the financial crisis and shake-up of financial services regulation. Before then, he worked in corporate PR at Sydney Opera House and the University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Born and raised in Gloucestershire, Ben regularly gets back to the Cotswolds to enjoy the countryside and see his family. He met his Partner while living in Australia. They moved to the UK in 2008 and have been living in North London since. When Ben’s not at a spin class with Psycle London or more recently doing a HIIT at home, he’s usually at theatre or socialising with friends.

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  Tim Jarman

  Assistant Director for Diversity and Inclusiveness
  EY UK

  Tim is an experienced and passionate Diversity and Inclusiveness professional, having joined EY’s D&I team in 2007. Prior to that, spent several years in EY’s Human Capital team. Before joining EY, Tim spent 4.5 years at Fidelity International, including time working in India on offshoring projects. Tim is a vocal advocate for LGBT+ equality, both in the workplace and beyond. He has been repeatedly recognized for this work over the years, for example being featured in the UK Pride Power List in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019. In 2019, Tim took part in the first cohort of ESCP Europe Business School's LGBT+ Leadership Programme. He holds a BSc International Studies (Hons) degree from the Open University which he achieved during his time at EY and has recently been working towards a Level 6 Certificate in Leadership and Management from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).

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  Paul Sobers

  Senior Manager - Student Recruitment, Attraction and Early ID
  EY UK

  Paul is a Senior Manager within EY , where he is focused on delivering the student recruitment attraction and early identification strategy for the UK. After graduating with an MEng in Civil Engineering from Loughborough University, he spent a number of years working as a Bridge Engineer before deciding to change careers and move into recruitment. Over the last few years he has built his career in recruitment but particular student recruitment for a number of multi-national organisations. Now, he has an active leadership role within EY with a strong focus on people leadership, stakeholder management and strategic project delivery.

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  Anato Chowdhury

  Senior Consultant
  EY UK

  Anato is an engineer and management consultant working in the energy sector. He is from Bangladesh, a country deeply vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change, and this has been the driving force behind his career in the sector. Anato currently supports organisations improve their performance across the asset management lifecycle, and has a particular focus on energy transition strategy and decarbonisation. As a bisexual man, he has been an advocate for LGBT+ rights throughout his career at EY and previously at bp. He has co-chaired a regional bp LGBT+ network, where he led the growth of the network from a membership of 4 to 100 members. Outside of work, Anato helps foster inclusion of LGBT+ people in wider society, and has previously spoken at Bi Pride UK, the London Southbank Alchemy Festival; and has written on faith and sexuality for the Critical Muslim.

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  Harry Queenborough

  Associate Director
  EY UK

  Harry is a trusted business consultant and works closely with EY's business development leadership focused on the development and implementation go-to-market strategy, plan and programs internationally. Harry is proudly bi+ and serves as EY's Bi Inclusion Champion, leading EY's bi+ professional and bi+ ally community and works with EY's Diversity & Inclusion and LGBT+ employee network leadership to visibly heighten focus on the needs of EY's bi+ communities. He led the co-founding of an inter-company Bi Inclusion Summit in September 2019 and chairs an inter-company network of bi leaders/champions to which new joiners are welcome to join. He works closely with bi+ inclusion charity, Bi Pride UK. Follow Harry: Instagram: @hrq & LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harryqueenborough

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  Alex Enness-Laporte

  Sales Operations Manager, LGBT+ Network Co-Chair
  EY UK

  Alex is one of the EY LGBT+ Network Co-Chairs and is a Sales Operations Manager for their Government and Public Services Advisory practice. She has worked with EY for over 5 years and her career has progressed through many industries, including Hospitality, Live-in Caring, Upstream Oil & Gas, Insurance and IT. She originates from Melbourne, Australia, and has lived in London since May 1999.

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  Lucy-Anne Bryans

  Procurement Enablement - Global Corporate Card Programme Manager
  EY UK

  Alongside my day job of managing our global commercial card programme I lead the Networking & Development workstream of EY’s LGBT+ network - Unity. I have been working in ERGs since the first day I discovered one more than 10 years ago and believe passionately that the opportunity to create an additional network of like minded people is a really important tool and can open doors and build confidence. At work I manage our global commercial card contract for EY. We look to drive new and innovative card solutions that enables the business to be agile in their purchasing processes, alongside a large corporate card programme that supports our employees as they travel.

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  Ryan Horwood

  Senior Assurance Associate
  EY UK

  I am currently working with EY Bristol in Assurance. I am primarily responsible for Financial Statement Audits and work with clients across various industries including Technology, Manufacturing, Energy and Optical. In terms of my LGBT+ work, I lead the Bristol Unity committee (a subsect of EY's Unity UK&I). This involves leading activities inside and outside EY Bristol, organising workplace events, and promoting EY's policy of inclusiveness for all.

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  Sandra Thompson

  Audit Partner/ Unity Co-Partner Sponsor
  EY UK

  I am an Audit Partner in EY, Reading and Audit Partner Sponsor for Onboarding and Transformation. I work with a variety of clients across many diverse industries and geographies, from large private businesses to global multinational listed businesses. I am also Unity Co-Partner Sponsor (EY's LGBT+ network) and I Co-Lead Diversity & Inclusivity in the Reading office. I moved to Reading on 1 May 2019 from the North East, where I was Office Senior Partner and Head of Audit for EY, Newcastle. As Head of Networks in Newcastle, I championed D&I and was Co-sponsor to one of the largest Professional Services Women's Network in the North East. I initially joined EY in early 2015 in their London office, where I was the UK Audit Leader for Private Client Services, where I focused on dynamic, entrepreneurial and fast-growth businesses with a key focus on technology, retail, private equity backed and fast-growing businesses looking to IPO or keen to expand internationally. Prior to this I was CFO of an AiM listed global on-line acquisition business, working across North and South America, Europe and Asia, having moved from Practice where I was an Audit Partner in Grant Thornton and Audit Director in PwC. I am a Non-Executive Member of the Finance & Investment Committee for the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

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  Andrew Croft

  Chief Executive
  St James's Place Plc

  I am Chief Executive of St James's Place Plc, having joined the company in 1993 I was appointed as Chief Financial Officer in 2004 and became CEO in January 2018. I am passionate about the firm's ethics and doing the right thing. I Chair our company's Inclusion and Diversity group which oversees our LGBT+ agenda and am part of an internal reverse mentoring program to help build greater diversity across our Board. I am also a member of the Diversity Project's CEO Advisory Council and am delighted to be recognised as an LGBT Great Top 110 Executive Ally.

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  Huw Morris

  Partner
  Lee & Thompson LLP, Member of Strategic Advisory Board at myGwork

  I am a member of the Strategic Advisory Board of myGwork. I am a partner at Lee & Thompson LLP (a boutique law firm for the creative industries). I advise media companies, brands, advertising agencies, publishers, retailers and talent on advertising and marketing and commercial law issues. I also founded and chair the Inclusion and Belonging Network at our firm. I am a founding member of the Committee of the LGBT+ Lawyers Division of the Law Society and a board director of OUTvertising, the LGBT+ network for people working in advertising. I am a trustee for leading international anti-bullying charity, Ditch The Label, and a Board Advisor to TLC Lions- an organization which ignites emotion in the workplace helping businesses progress their inclusion strategies through storytelling. Get in touch if you would like to hear about a career in media law.

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  Chris Loweth

  Head of Legal & Business Affairs
  BBC Global News

  I'm Head of Legal & Business Affairs for BBC Global News, a BBC commercial subsidiary responsible for the BBC World News TV channel, BBC.com, and the BBC News and Sport apps outside the UK. My team advises on the full range of legal and business affairs matters affecting the business globally. Before I joined the BBC I worked on the Opening and Closing Ceremonies for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and prior to that I was Head of Content Legal Advice at Channel 5. I'm a member of the BBC's staff LGBTQ+ network, BBC Pride, and recently joined the Equality & Diversity Steering Group at Lincoln's Inn, one of the four Inns of Court for barristers in England & Wales.

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  Netanya Clixby

  Legal Counsel
  G-Research

  Netanya is Legal Counsel at G-Research, a quantitive finance research firm. She is co-chair and co-founder of the London Bisexual Network (the ‘LBN’). The LBN is a network for bisexual people and allies working in finance, law and professional services. Since 2016, the LBN has promoted bi-visibility and inclusion by organising industry events and providing training to employers. Netanya is also the bisexual representative on the Law Society’s LGBT+ Division Committee. The Law Society is the professional body responsible for representing solicitors in England and Wales. The Law Society is committed to promoting inclusion in the legal profession and the Committee provides an opportunity for LGBT+ solicitors to have their voices heard.

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  Rachael Carolan

  General Counsel
  what3words

  I'm General Counsel at a global technology business called what3words, working to make locations simpler and more efficient. Prior to this, I trained as a lawyer at Herbert Smith Freehills and have worked in other fast paced technology business including Accenture, Deliveroo and GoCardless.

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  Nimmisha Aslam

  Associate Solicitor
  Russell-Cooke LLP

  I'm an Associate Solicitor in law firm Russell-Cooke's personal injury and clinical negligence team. I advise clients on a range of claims, including road traffic accidents, accidents at work, criminal injuries compensation authority claims, tripping accidents, dental claims and a variety of claims arising from clinical negligence against hospitals and doctors, including misdiagnosis of medical conditions, birth injuries and negligent operations. I am currently advising and representing some of those affected by the Grenfell Tower fire. I am a speaker on LGBTQ+ and BAME issues.

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  Matt Cameron

  Managing Director
  LGBT Great

  Matt is an experienced talent management, diversity and organisational development leader with extensive experience within the investment and savings industry. A proven track record in inspiring others, developing effective strategy, programme execution, managing diverse teams and building effective partnerships. Originally from Lancashire in northern England, he holds a BA (Hons) degree in Modern & Medieval History with Italian from the University of Birmingham and was the first in his family to go to university. Matt takes a key role in the delivery of LGBT Great’s programmes and is responsible for the organisation’s strategic direction. His vision for the buyside is to achieve LGBT+ equality and inclusion maturity to deliver on the expectations of employees, clients and investors. You can follow Matt on Twitter: @MattJCam @LGBTGreat and LinkedIn. Specialities: Recruitment: diversity awareness, bias, search and selection; LGBT+ inclusion: the business case, employee and client engagement; Learning & development: awareness building, leadership, allyship and role modelling; Marketing: developing impactful communications and social media campaigns; Data: developing diagnostics and benchmarking systems; Facilitation: leadership, coaching and presenting.

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  Anne Richards

  Chief Executive Officer
  Fidelity

  Anne joined Fidelity International as CEO in December 2018 from M&G Investments where she was CEO and a director of its parent company Prudential plc. Anne was appointed a Director of FIL Limited in September 2019. She has worked in the asset management industry since 1992. Anne has almost three decades of experience as an analyst, portfolio manager and CIO and is a strong proponent of ESG investing. Her career path spans many blue chip global names in the financial sector including Alliance Capital, JP Morgan, Merrill Lynch Investment Managers and Aberdeen Asset Management. Anne is a Chartered Engineer and began her career as a research fellow at CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research. She is a former chair of the UK Financial Conduct Authority’s Practitioner Panel and is also a member of the US-based Board of Leaders of 2020 Women on Boards, which works to increase the proportion of women on corporate boards. Anne was publicly recognised in the UK for her services to the voluntary sector and to the Financial Services industry by being appointed a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) in 2014 and a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2015. Anne holds an MBA from INSEAD and a BSc (Hons) from the University of Edinburgh as well as an honorary degree from Heriot-Watt University.

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  Tom Kazmierczak

  Global Head of Diversity and Inclusion
  T. Rowe Price

  Tom serves as Global Head of Diversity and Inclusion for T. Rowe Price, a $1 trillion US-based asset manager. He co-led the creation and launch of the firm's first business resource group, PRIDE @ T. Rowe Price, which was established to ensure all associates can bring their full selves to the workplace. Prior to his role as Global Head of Diversity and Inclusion, he was Head of T. Rowe Price Advisory Services, Inc and held a number of leadership roles as part of the firm's direct-to-consumer business in the United States. Tom is a passionate advocate for the LGBT+ community and strongly believes we all have a responsibility to attract, develop and retain LGBT+ talent in the asset management and financial services industries.

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  Jane Finch

  Quality Specialist
  Pfizer

  I have worked in Pharmaceutical Manufacture Quality Assurance for over 30 years, starting out as a lab analyst, through leader positions, and into my current role in a Quality Systems Team. I have 2 children in their 20’s, one of whom identifies as gay and non-binary. I joined Pfizer’s LGBTQ+ group, OPEN, in 2016, becoming European Ally Lead in 2017. I lead on the development of materials to engage and educate Allies in Pfizer Europe, sharing the materials and my passion for the engagement of Allies with OPEN chapters globally. I firmly believe that by working collaboratively we can raise the bar and make work a place where everyone can be their best self.

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  Marie Dzanis, CIMA

  Head of Asset Management EMEA
  Northern Trust

  Marie Dzanis is the head of EMEA for Northern Trust Asset Management. She has responsibility for overseeing the governance, operations, business development and talent of Northern Trust Asset Management. Marie is on the boards of Northern Trust Global Funds, PLC and Northern Trust Funds Managers (Ireland) Limited. She is chief executive officer of Northern Trust Global Investments Limited. She serves on the Northern Trust Asset Management Executive Committee and the Northern Trust EMEA Executive Committee. Prior to joining Northern Trust in 2011, she held executive and leadership positions at iShares/Blackrock, JPMorgan Asset Management and Smith Barney. Marie’s comprehensive business acumen is demonstrated by having successfully managed multiple channels and the profitable growth of several lines of business in the institutional, intermediary and wealth channels. Her multifacted career began as a financial advisor and subsequently includes experience in securities lending and trading, product development, product sales, sales management and branch management. As a recognized industry leader with more than 25 years of investment management experience, Marie has been awarded a top "Women To Watch" award from Investment News in 2017 and “Top Women in Asset Management” award by Money Management Executive in May 2015. In addition, she is on the women’s board of the University of Chicago Cancer Foundation, involved in Women in ETFs, is on the Advisory Board for BlinkNow Foundation and is a producer for the Maggie Doyne documentary called "Love Letters to my Children."

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  Uwern Jong

  Editor-in-Chief
  OutThere

  Co-founder and Editor-in-Chief (or #Experientialist-in-Chief) of OutThere - a multi-award winning publisher (Publication of the Year - Online at the 2018 Travel Media Awards) - the world's leading luxury and experiential travel journal for men of distinction, now sold in over 20 countries worldwide, celebrating a decade in print. Proud winner of “Editor of the Year” at 2020’s Campaign Publishing Awards Founder of the LGBT+ Travel Symposium series, delivered the first of its kind in South East Asia in Bangkok in 2018, helping the Thai travel industry better understand how to engage with this profitable segment. Co-Founder of Stockholm LGBT, a members-based Destination Marketing platform, a rainbow family of the hotels, attractions and restaurants passionate about welcome LGBT guests to the Open City of Stockholm. Luxury experientialist, brand ambassador, content creator, thought leader, marketer, publicist, travel expert and public speaker on high-end travel for LGBT+ people. www.outthere.travel

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  Pablo De Luca

  President
  Argentina LGBT Chamber of Commerce

  President and co-founder at CCGLAR -Argentina LGBT Chamber of Commerce- a leading Argentinean member-based organization dedicated to increasing LGBT tourism to this country. CCGLAR also focuses on Diversity and LGBT Inclusion in the workplace and works closely with corporations and organizations. Co-founder at Gnetwork360 a Latin American LGBT Travel Organization, based in Buenos Aires and dedicated to promote LGBT tourism in Argentina and the region for the last 13 years.

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  Saski .

  LGBTQ+ Inclusion Consultant
  Freelance

  Saski is a well established LGBTQ+ Inclusion Consultant, Official PRIDE Host, Interviewer, Radio host, Panel Moderator, Singer and out and proud Queer Parent. She has the unique ability to be versatile on a wide range of subjects, whilst engaging both her audiences and panellists bringing about the best conversations for education and awareness. Humour meets grace and knowledge meets respect...it’s what Saski does best. A keen activist for positive promotion and equal rights for the LGBTQ+ community and all, Saski has appeared on several BBC TV and Radio shows, promoting inclusion and has also worked closely with a variety of charities and organisations as an interviewer, LGBTQ+ Inclusion Trainer, guest speaker and Host, Including Diva Magazine, PRIDE London, Mermaids, Diversity Role Models, Clexacon, The British Youth Council and P3 Parenting Network to name but a few. Find out what’s she’s up to next on FB & Instagram @Saskisinger & Twitter @Saskisinger1

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  Giuseppe Giulio

  Account Executive
  Gay.it

  He's currently working as Account Executive for Gay.it & Gay-Friendly Italy, the main LGBT+ media group in Italy. Former student at Roma Tre University with a Master's Degree in International Studies and a Bachelor's Degree in Political Sciences for the Cooperation and Development. The work on LGBT+ marketing industry has led to broader expertise all across the globe. Gnetwork360 Speaker. Giuseppe has also worked with Garbage Patch State for COP 21 & EXPO 2015.

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  Darren Burn

  Group CEO
  OutOfOffice.com / TravelGay.com

  Darren is a former ITV journalist who set up luxury LGBT friendly travel company OutOfOffice.com in 2016. In 2018 the business acquired TravelGay.com, the world's most visited LGBT travel website. The businesses have grown year on year and boast a global audience.

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  LoAnn Halden

  VP-Communications
  IGLTA

  I am journalist by degree who morphed into a travel writer and eventually to my communications role for the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association. I am, by my own definition, a "career queer," having always worked primarily in roles that supported the LGBTQ+ community, either in my home base of South Florida or globally, speaking on panels and attending conferences for IGLTA. I've been particularly proud that we've established the IGLTA Foundation to provide mentorship to LGBTQ+ business owners in challenging or emerging destinations, and want to help drive the continued push toward more diversity within our association. I'm currently living in London with my partner (soon to be my wife), and remain passionate about travel and working for the recovery of the tourism industry.

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  Daniel O'Gorman

  Partnerships Director
  Pride in London

  Dan is a highly experienced Sponsorship and Business Development Professional with extensive experience business growth, commercial development and investment strategy. Dan began his career in start-up’s; launching his own artist management company – Mercury Artist Management in 2011, before a record label as the Head of its UK A&R division. Dan was also part of the founding team responsible for the development and launch of KidZania London - a £24M new leisure and entertainment franchise to the UK Market. Dan led the UK commercial partnerships strategy, securing contracts with Shell, WWE, DreamWorks, Warner Bros and Nike. In his capacity at KidZania, Dan was also responsible for the successful partnership activation and delivery for Unilever, Al Jazeera, Vitabiotics and Cadbury’s. In 2019, Dan was also appointed to the Board of Directors of ‘Pride in London’ as its Strategic Partnerships Director and has been responsible for Pride in London’s most financially successful year in its history. Dan was also appointed to the board of ‘Anthem Wales’ by the Arts Director of the Arts Council, tasked with securing £22Million of investment into Wales' music and cultural landscape. Dan joined Gay Times Group in June 2019 as its Commercial Director.

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  Paul Maddock

  Associate
  DWF

  I deal with a range of corporate and commercial disputes including, commercial contract disputes, professional negligence claims, contentious probate / trust matters and shareholder disputes. Previously, I have completed two secondments with a national bank and I regularly act for their trust and estates division in respect of all contentious matters including contentious probate and breach of trust claims For the last two years I have sat on the Law Society's LGBT+ Division Committee.

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  Kelly Ellis

  Director Tech Transformation
  GSK

  An economist technologist. A transformation leader with 15 years of experience in major reform programmes in the public and health sciences sectors. Co-chair of the Proud Science Alliance.

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  Scott Francis

  UK and Ireland Market Access HIV
  Gilead Sciences Inc.

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  Dustin Duncan

  Associate Professor
  Columbia University

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  Preston Taylor

  Head of Content Enrichment and Publication
  RS Components

  Preston is Chairman of the employee-led, SPECTRUM LGBTQ+ community within RS Components, in his own words "I believe everyone should be able to bring their true selves to work. We have created an open and honest environment, whilst shining a light on diversity and inclusion through our campaigns and events. As a proud transman, I am always willing to answer questions, provide insight, mentor, guide, or just listen." Preston is currently Head of Content Enrichment and Publication and divides his time between digital transformation and his tireless work for the community. "Be Yourself. Everyone Else Is Already Taken" - Oscar Wilde

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  Peter Lewin

  Senior Director, Strategy & Marketplace Insights
  Levi Strauss & Co.

  Peter Lewin is Senior Director of Strategy & Marketplace Insights, Europe, for Levi Strauss & Co., where he is responsible for artificial intelligence in addition to strategy and consumer insights. Peter serves as a member of the European Leadership Team, a founding member of the European Impact Accelerators and Diversity Council, and sponsor of Unlabeled - the European LGBTQ+ and ally employee network. Before joining Levi Strauss & Co., Peter worked in the Technology Advantage practice in BCG’s London office. He has also been a member of the Strategic Planning Group of American Express, where he led a variety of digital projects, has consulted on a freelance basis for LVMH and News International, and had a previous career in investment banking with UBS in New York and London.

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  Kay Hallsworth MA, MIHM, Chartered Fellow CMI

  Medical Services Officer
  Royal Navy

  Compassionate and inclusive, I am a highly experienced specialist with a history of delivering medical operational capabilities in the military industry. I have a broad portfolio of skills including operational planning and support; emergency planning and management; healthcare governance and assurance; people management including work in diversity and inclusivity; coaching and mentoring; communication and social media lead for internal employee support networks. Ambassador for Association of Royal Navy Officers and RN Officer’s Charity Ally for Compass, Royal Navy Gender and Sexual Identity Network. RN Patient Link for CANDID, Chronic Illness and Disability in Defence Network.

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  Laila El-Metoui

  Education Consultant -Stonewall Lesbian Role Model of the Year (2020)
  LelmEducation

  Stonewall Lesbian Role Model of the Year 2020. Independent Education Consultant specialised in FE curriculum management, social integration and LGBTQIA+ inclusion 25 years experience in public sector Chair of Proud London Councils, the pan London Forum of LGBT+ staff networks in Local authorities. Volunteer for LGBT History Month and Schools Out UK, main organiser for Pride in Education , global virtual conference on usualising queer education.

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  Meg-John Barker

  Writer
  Independent scholar

  Meg-John Barker is the author of a number of popular books on sex, gender, and relationships, including Queer: A Graphic History, Gender: A Graphic Guide, How To Understand Your Gender, Life Isn’t Binary, Enjoy Sex (How, When, and IF You Want To), Rewriting the Rules, The Psychology of Sex, and The Secrets of Enduring Love. They have also written a number of books for scholars and counsellors on these topics, drawing on their own research and therapeutic practice. Websites: rewriting-the-rules.com, megjohnandjustin.com. Twitter: @megjohnbarker, Instagram: @meg_john_barker.

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  Delphine Bruch

  Young person's counsellor
  Metro charity

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  Rusi Jaspal

  Professor of Psychology
  Nottingham Trent University

  Rusi Jaspal is Professor of Psychology at Nottingham Trent University. He was previously Professor of Psychology & Sexual Health at De Montfort University, where he also served as Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research). From 2016-2019, Rusi Jaspal was an Adjunct Professor of Minority Research at Åbo Akademi University in Turku, Finland. Professor Jaspal's research cuts across the fields of public health and psychology, focussing particularly on social psychological approaches to preventing HIV and to enhancing wellbeing in HIV patients. Additionally, he has conducted extensive research into aspects of psychological wellbeing among gay men, the management of identities in conflict, prejudice and discrimination, and public understanding of science, technology and medicine. Rusi Jaspal has written six books, over 100 peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters, and several reports for the Department of Health. He is the author of 'The Social Psychology of Gay Men' (Palgrave, 2019). Prof Jaspal sits on the advisory boards of the Terrence Higgins Trust and the National HIV Commission. He serves on the editorial boards of HIV Medicine, Mental Health, Religion & Culture, the British Journal of Social Psychology, the Journal of Social & Political Psychology, and the European Journal of Social Psychology.

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  Kate Webb

  Deputy Ceo
  MindOut LGBTQ Mental Health service

  I am an experienced Third Sector manager, trainer and business development professional with a background in mental health and wellbeing. I am passionate about LGBTQ equality, positive mental health and visibility and am proud to work for a brilliant organisation that lives and breathes the changes that we need to see. In my current role as Deputy CEO, my focus is on working closely with the MindOut community to make the organisation healthy, vibrant and focused on the needs and concerns of LGBTQ people to improve and sustain their wellbeing. I am also keen to grow our training offer - LGBTQ Inclusion and Trans awareness to organisations and individuals nationally. Our goal is to reduce health inequalities and make LGBTQ lives better.

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  Simon Blake OBE

  Chief Executive
  Mental Health First Aid England

  I am committed to social justice and equity with over 20 years senior level experience in the social sector. I am CEO of social enterprise, MHFA England and deputy Chair of Stonewall. Prior to joining MHFA England I was CEO at National Union of Students, and before that Brook, the young people's sexual health charity. I worked at the National Children's Bureau from 1999 - 2006 across all areas of children's and young people's health and wellbeing. I am a Companion of the Chartered Management Institute, a member of the Institute of Directors and was awarded an OBE for services to the voluntary sector and young people in 2011. I was Chair of Diversity Role Models from 2012 - 2015, and a trustee of the Black Health Agency from 2005 - 2010,

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  Shawn Kobetz

  Partnerships Manager
  NYC Pride

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  Natasha Whitehurst

  Head of HR
  Rapport

  I'm currently Head of HR at Rapport Guest Services and my experience comes from a history of working in the hospitality sector. I currently manage the HR and Recruitment function for Rapport and work with the Head of L&D to provide a joined up people function to ambassadors and clients. I am a passionate ally and my priority is to ensure we offer an inclusive and supportive environment to all our ambassadors and potential candidates ensuring we are offering a safe space to work for our LGBTQ+ community.

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  Jessica Chu

  Group Head of Diversity, Inclusion and Engagement
  RS Components

  Australian born and bred, I arrived in London in 1999 for a six month back-packing holiday and loved it so much, decided to stay! I have spent the last 20 years working in the Financial Services sector across a number of disciplines and for the last decade I've specialised in leading diversity and inclusion programmes at leading banks and now at RS Components a global digital and engineering organisation. As the Group Head of D&I, I am responsible for delivering work that has a real impact on our people and communities we operate in. What I love most is the breadth of my role and the fact that no two days are ever the same! I have two young children, who keep me extra busy when not at work. As a family we love to spend time at the park, having picnics, riding bikes and jumping on the trampoline. I also love to cook, garden, watch movies and read.

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  Siobhan Harvey

  HR Business Partner
  The SR Group

  I am an HR professional, with a Generalist background. I am currently an HR Business Partner at The SR Group, which is a specialist recruitment company. In my role I business partner with our APAC, Dubai and London regions. The areas of my role that I love are adding value around employee engagement, performance and most importantly, well-being. After all you can't have a high performing organisation without a base line of well-being. In my personal life, I love running, cycling and walking my dog, Winnie!

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  Maria Goldsmith

  Wellbeing Consultant
  Goldsmith Counselling and Mediation Services Ltd

  As the founder and Director of GCM (Goldsmith Counselling and Mediation) Maria brings close to three decades of experience counselling people individually and in groups with specific issues (trauma, autism, Aspergers Syndrome, rape and sexual abuse). She also provides tailor made organisational support and senior management consultancy including mediation, sickness absence, compliance and capability, grievances and environmental stress audits. She offers a range of individualised solutions to support the care and wellbeing of your employees. Maria’s philosophy is built upon mapping, planning and delivering “win/win” outcomes that meet the needs of the individual and the organisation.

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  Emily Hamilton

  VP Strategic Change
  RS Components

  I have 20+ years in the delivery of strategic change within a diverse group of industry sectors, both public and private. I have contributed to industry standard texts on project management with a particular interest in project risk management. I am also a trans woman who came out later in life; and this has sparked a real passion for workplace mental health support to the LGBTQ+ community.

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  Iain Gowers

  IT support analyst
  Roche

  I'm been working in IT support at Roche for 11 years. I set up the UK branch of OPEN (Roche's LGBTQ+ & allies staff forum) in 2016 and we have been involved with Brighton Pride from 2017 onwards. I also have over 19 years, working as a Trustee with Allsorts youth project (an LGBTU+ youth project for young people under the age of 26). I am an avid swimmer and competes and is part of the management member of the LGBT+ & allies swimming club Out To Swim South

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  David Hillman

  Senior Director, Pharmacovigilance
  PPD

  A medical scientist by background, I have spent the first fifteen years of my career working in the field of patient safety, both in the pharmaceutical and service provider sectors. I currently lead the global safety science team within the Pharmacovigilance department of a large Contract Research Organisation (CRO). In 2019 I became one of the founding executive sponsors of PPD's LGBT+ employee resource group "PPD Pride."

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  Hannah Williamson

  Graduate Research Scientist
  AstraZeneca

  Hannah joined AstraZeneca's R&D Graduate Scheme in 2018 after receiving her BSc in Biomedical Sciences with Industrial Placement from the University of Leeds. She has worked in various early-phase drug discovery functions and is currently based in the Functional Genomics Centre, a joint venture with CRUK which aims to use pooled CRISPR screening to identify oncology drug resistance targets. Hannah is an active member of AZPride, AstraZeneca's LGBTQIA+ employee resource group, having represented the group at early-talent events including Student Pride and LGBT Leaders in STEM. She is passionate about cultivating an inclusive culture in scientific research.

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  Emmanuel Temores

  Online Advertising Professional
  Monster Online

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  Matthew Van As

  Festival Director
  Cape Town Pride

  Hi All, My name is Matthew (He/Him/His) and I’m the festival director of Cape Town Pride/Regional Representative for Africa at InterPride and on the Global Advisory Council representing Africa. When I’m not hosting LGBTI+ Events I’m a lecturer at a private institute training teachers. I also LGBTI+ sensitivity workshops at corporate partners all over South Africa.

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  Hannah Marshall

  Talent Acquisition Project Lead
  Discovery

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  Sandra Forgues

  Championne Olympique de Canoë
  -

  Sandra Forgues, formerly known as Wilfrid Forgues, is a French slalom canoeist who competed as a male athlete from the late 1980s to the early 2000s. In 2018, Forgues revealed publicly her identity as a trans woman.

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  Pedro Bogo

  PSICOPEDAGOGO
  PROYECTO ÁMBAR

  Educador social. Responsable del proyecto Ámbar y del área formativa de la Fundación 26 de Diciembre.

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  Mané Fernández Noriega

  Vicepresidente
  FELGTB

  Diplomado en Enfermería y licenciado en Psicología. Vicepresidente de la Federación Estatal de Lesbianas, Gays, Transexuales y Bisexuales (FELGTB).

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  Jorge Guerra

  Técnico de empleo
  ONG Rescate

  Psicólogo con formación en RRHH e intervención con personas vulnerables. Cuento con experiencia en la ejecución de programas para la mejora de la empleabilidad de personas en riesgo de exclusión social. Actualmente técnico de empleo del Programa de inserción socio-laboral 'Relanza' en ONG Rescate atendiendo a solicitantes de protección internacional por motivos de género o pertenencia al colectivo LGTBI+.

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  Luke Payne

  Senior Inventory Planner
  RS Components

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  Margarita Alonso

  Founding Partner
  Driversity

  Margarita Alonso, Complutense University & Driversity, is ADIM Head of Corporate Area. ADIM funded by the EU and Spanish and Portuguese Governments, involves 16 businesses and 8 universities in both countries, to provide data that links D&I with Business Case.

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  Alexis A. Sordelli Rodríguez

  Aviation Claims
  Willis Towers Watson

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  Juan Manuel Alonso Melo

  Brand & Communications Director - Inclusion & Diversity Lead
  Cargill

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  Elisabeth Laborde

  Directrice Générale
  TÊTU

  Directrice générale et directrice de la publication de TÊTU.

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  Salvador Lorenzo

  Gerente de Diversidad
  REPSOL

  Gerente de Diversidad en REPSOL. Presidente de la Comisión de Formación de la Cámara de España. Embajador de la European Vocational Skills Week 2018-19

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  Liam Rezende

  Senior Manager - Field Marketing
  Hyatt

  Originally from Trinidad and Tobago but based in London, I have over ten years' experience in the hospitality and tourism industry. A champion of LGBT+ inclusivity, I'm currently the global co-chair of HyPride, Hyatt's LGBT+ Employee Resource Group, leading on strategies and campaigns to engage internal and external LGBT+ and ally communities. I also launched the first international HyPride chapter in the UK in 2015. Ranking fourth in the 2019 Top 50 Outstanding & Yahoo Finance LGBT+ Future Leaders list, I've also spoken at the House of Commons on the impact of anti-LGBT+ laws across the Commonwealth. Additionally, in 2018 I co-founded Checking-IN, an industry network for LGBT+ professionals and allies working in the hospitality industry.

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  Stephan Heinz

  Senior Manager / CSO
  Seabury Consulting / mygwork

  Experienced global consulting professional and MBA (INSEAD) with over 10 years in the aviation industry focusing on large scale airline transformation and restructuring projects. Strategic advisor and investor for start-ups focused on LGBTQ+ and diversity. Author and key note speaker on airline strategy, with a particular focus on Africa. Part-time lecturer on Airline Strategy (Cranfield Univerisity, University of Surrey). Passionate about aviation, flight simulation, travel, cooking, horse-riding, LGBT issues and helping businesses grow!

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  Zoe Schulz

  Client Success Manager
  mygwork

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  Nathan Nalla

  Diversity & Inclusion Coordinator
  Soho House

  I began this journey in Diversity & Inclusion a few years ago when working for a charity that focused on social integration. I saw first-hand the benefits of having people from all different backgrounds working together, breaking down barriers and achieving great things for society. As a man who is racialised as Black and identifies as gay, I try to use my personal experiences to shape my work. In doing this work, I care most about honesty and creating space to have open conversations about what can sometimes be very personal and quite challenging issues.

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  Eugenio Pirri FCIPD

  Chief People & Culture Officer
  Dorchester Collection

  A multi-award winning industry leader, Eugenio Pirri has dedicated his 30-year career to ensuring that people are the cornerstone of every business decision. An ardent advocate for diversity and inclusion across all aspects of operation, Pirri has pioneered several pivotal initiatives for Dorchester Collection, including the We Care philosophy. Under the wider umbrella of We Care, Pirri launched the global RESPECT initiative to wholly champion an environment where all employees feel valued and treasured. Dedicated to celebrating individuality and the brilliance it adds to Dorchester Collection’s company culture, Pirri and his team bring diversity and inclusion to life via training, education and consistent employee recognition. With particular focus on all protected classes under the Human Rights Act, Pirri introduced coaching, mentoring and diversity celebrations to showcase the truly inclusive environment of Dorchester Collection. He also conducts Diversity and Inclusion workshops within the firm, working with hotels to support local charities in order to advance the company’s important message of inclusivity.

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  Charlotte Weatherall

  Director of Sales & Marketing
  The Langham, London

  Fortunate to have 20 years experience within the luxury hotel, resort and retail industries, working across all business segments both internationally and in the UK market. A proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, married to wife, Emily and living on the outskirts of London in Surrey.

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  Pete Hazell

  Support Lead
  Discovery

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  Sarah Short

  Director Talent Acquisition
  Discovery

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  Izaro Assa de Amilibia

  People & Culture transformation
  BBVA

  Responsable de diversidad BBVA y fundadora del programa de intraemprendimiento de desarrollo personal Be Yourself

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  Niurka Gibaja

  Teologia
  Universidad de Comillas

  Soy Niurka, una mujer responsable, dinámica, positiva, confiable y honesta. Me gusta el trabajo en equipo, lo novedoso, innovador y creativo; me gusta el trabajo de calidad y calidez humana. Soy una persona que le gusta tratar con personas, trato de estar atenta a lo que piden, necesitan o buscan. Tengo un espíritu solidario, comunitario. Disfruto mucho de la gratuidad de los momentos libres, pero también me gusta la seriedad y puntualidad en el trabajo. Finalmente decir que, soy una persona abierta, directa y sincera…Busco el diálogo y la escucha en las relaciones humanas, porque creo que son la mejor manera para solucionar conflictos.

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  Sue Sanders

  Chair
  SCHOOLS OUT UK

  I am Professor Emeritus of the Harvey Milk Institute, the founder of LGBT History Month UK and the website The Classroom which has over 100 lesson plans that usulaise LGBT people, issues and concepts across the curriculum, for all ages and adheres to the national curriculum. My passion is to educate OUT prejudice and enable LGBT+ people in all their diversity to be visible safe and proud. I am an out and proud lesbian activist who been around for over 40 years! I am the chair of Schools OUT UK a charity that organises LGBT+ History Month UK, The Classroom and the international LGBT History Festival OUTing the Past. I am also a member of the Independent Advisory Group to the Government on Hate Crime.

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  Tarek Zeidan

  Executive Director
  Helem

  Tarek is a sexual and bodily rights activist from Beirut, Lebanon advocating for the rights and protection of LGBT individuals and groups in the MENA region and is the president and executive director of Helem, the first LGBT rights organization in the Arab World, founded in Beirut in 2001. He also is a specialist on teaching adaptive leadership and is working towards starting the first leadership laboratory in the MENA region focused exclusively on youth, civil society, civic engagement, and conflict transformation. He is a global fellow at the Ford Foundation, an ELI fellow at the Harvard Center for Public Leadership, and a human rights fellow the Carr Center for Human Rights Policy at Harvard. Tarek has previously worked as manager of communications and director of strategic planning for the MENA region at both the Brookings Institution and the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace MENA offices in Doha and Beirut respectively. He obtained his BA from the American University of Beirut, his MALD in and international relations from the Fletcher School at Tufts University, and his MPA in human rights law and advocacy from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.

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  Kryss Shane, MS, MSW, LSW, LMSW

  Leading LGBT Expert
  ThisIsKryss.com

  Named by The New York Times and many national and international platforms as America's go-to Leading LGBT Expert, Kryss Shane, MS, MSW, LSW, LMSW (she/her) has 25+ years of experience guiding the world's top leaders in business, education, and community via individual, small group, and full-staff trainings. She is known for making each organization's specific Diversity and Inclusion needs become more manageable, approachable, and actionable. This includes physical spaces, hiring practices, policies/procedures, and more. Kryss has two Master’s degrees, two licenses to practice mental healthcare, and she is currently working toward her PhD while shaping the minds of learners as a Lecturer at Columbia University and an Adjunct Professor at Brandman University. She is also the author of "The Educator's Guide to LGBT+ Inclusion," the first book of its kind to guide educators, administrators, and school staff to become able and empowered to make their schools more LGBT+ inclusive.

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  Laura-Rose Thorogood

  Founder/ Strategic Account Director
  THE LGBT Mummies Tribe / REDBOX GROUP

  My name is Laura-Rose & I am a Strategic Account Director for REDBOX GROUP managing UK wide group accounts & New Business. I also founded & own 'The LGBT Mummies Tribe' . Our sole purpose is to ‘Educate, Share, & Celebrate’ LGBT+ women & people worldwide on the path to motherhood or parenthood. We act as a central point of support & a safe haven through providing information, advice & knowledge on the available routes to starting a family through our website & social channels. From educational resources, support groups & services, information on charities, LGBT+ brands, & sharing your stories with our community to our annual UK ‘Meets’ where families come together to celebrate our community, make friends & share their experiences. Whether you are thinking of starting a family or have children already by fertility treatment, surrogacy, adoption, fostering, as a single parent, co-parent or a step parent, all are welcome. We are passionate about equality are currently in talks with the Government, NHS & other UK governing bodies to bring policy change & support to ensure equality & inclusivity to LGBT+ women & their children through fertility, healthcare & associated services. We work tirelessly to inspire LGBT+ women & people on their quest to motherhood or parenthood, whilst working to normalise our families in the media & creating a more inclusive future for our children, by providing visibility of our families, creating change & equality for our amazing women & their children. My wife & I are also Ambassadors for The Centre for Reproductive & Genetic Health supporting LGBT+ parents through their fertility treatment at the clinic. We have worked with Stonewall as part of their 30th Anniversary campaign & have also been personally invited to Downing Street to meet the Prime Minister & have had multiple articles & interviews published about the work we do. I am also on the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists ‘Women’s Voices Involvement Panel’ providing my knowledge & experience of the LGBT+ community we support & also my own lived experience.

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  Damien Shieber

  Head of Culture and Inclusion
  Santander

  Damien is the Head of Culture and Inclusion for Santander UK plc. Alongside the role at Santander, Damien sits on the HM Treasury Women in Finance Charter Industry Board as the UK Banking representative and on the Business in the Community Wellbeing Leadership Team with the aim to build a movement that is committed to positioning health and wellbeing as strategic boardroom issues with a particular focus on mental health; driving collective action through evidence-based, practical solutions. As the Head of Culture and Inclusion for Santander in the UK, Damien leads the development of the culture strategy identifying the overall cultural themes to support the alignment of purpose, values and behaviours across 23,000 colleagues. Included in his responsibilities are culture, employee wellbeing, inclusion and diversity, culture measurement, people insights & data and employee engagement. Prior to taking up this role, Damien was the Head of Performance Management designing and implementing a cultural change programme and as a secondary role was part of a HR Global Project Team as a Global HR Transformation Director for Performance Management, developing a harmonised approach to performance management across all countries in Group Santander for 200,000 employees. Damien previously worked at the BBC in Talent and Organisational Development leading the pan-BBC Talent identification, assessment and development long term strategy and for RWE Group (Utility provider) in Essen, Germany and Swindon as a Talent and Development Lead focusing on key cultural change and talent programmes aligned to the business strategy. Damien started his career in consulting with Capita Group.

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  Natasha Walker

  Senior Global Pricing Analyst
  RS Components

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  Josh Rivers

  Creator and host
  Busy Being Black

  Josh Rivers is the creator and host of Busy Being Black, the podcast exploring how we live in the fullness of our queer Black lives. The show centres conversations with those who have learned - and are learning - to thrive at the intersection of their identities, and is a regular feature on LGBTQ and Black History Month lists on both Apple and Spotify. Josh volunteers his time as the head of communications for UK Black Pride, and was a founding member of Series Q, a network of mentorship, learning and support for LGBTQ entrepreneurs.

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  Lavanya Peri

  Talent Acquisition Business Partner
  RS Components

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  Lukasz Konieczka

  Executive Director
  Mosaic LGBT+ Young Persons' Trust

  born in Sopot, Poland started his education at the College for Social Workers where he graduated with a specialism in community development before continuing his education doing social psychology at SWPS University. Throughout his studies, Lukasz volunteered for Amnesty International as campaign coordinator and association 'Together against AIDS' as volunteers' coordinator. Volunteering, however, butters no parsnips, so he had to work in a bank throughout his studies, he decided to move to the UK to work as a social worker. That however proved to be difficult as his qualifications although achieved with distinction were not recognised in the UK. He, therefore, worked in a nursing home in Farnborough as a head of activities department before moving to London to work for Brent Youth Services as a Mosaic Project manager. He took up any opportunity of learning offered by his employer and did qualifications in education management alongside youth work before he was made redundant and the project closed following government cuts. Lukasz however together with his colleagues founded the charity Mosaic LGBT Youth Centre that continued and expanded the work supporting, educating and inspiring LGBT+ young persons in order to shape proud, strong and cohesive LGBT+ community of the future. Lukasz describes himself as a bit of an eccentric Humanist with the passion for Equality and Human Rights. In his spare time, he volunteers on Community Advisory Board of Pride in London is a chair of the board of trustees for another charity Greater London Youth Foundation as well as volunteers as a home visitor for Refugees at Home where he says he can put into practice his strong belief that all humans have a right to dignity and decent housing. He also volunteered on the advisory board of YMCA West London for nearly two years, but his time wasn't able to stretch enough to carry on with that engagement.

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  JORGE GARRIDO FUENTES

  Executive Director
  Apoyo Positivo

  I'm executive director of the Spanish NGO Apoyo Positivo (www.apoyopositivo.org) since 2010, a community resource for social innovation, created in 1993, because of the HIV/aids pandemic. As a social and health professional, after many years managing health and educational programs for patients and communities (Mental Health, Alzheimer, Elder community, Down Syndrome, etc.), and also being part of the LGTBIQ community, had the opportunity to lead Apoyo Positivo some years ago, and the HIV experience, and specially the work beside the most affected communities and their realities, inspired me to generate a new organizational vision to advocate for their rights, my own rights, but also the whole society's rights, as Sexual and Reproductive Rights are. Since there, our project works attending the needs of Diversity in Health, Education and Rights and we also promote the social entrepreneurship and co-creation beside the diverse community as a tool for social change. Diversity makes us smarter and it's the chance to challenge the status quo which is still violating human rights and not contributing to a peaceful society. Diversity is the way to a better conflict management, at the personal but also professional level. It's time to walk beside Diversity!

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  ying xin

  Executive Director
  ying xin

  Ying is the executive director of Beijing LGBT Center. she is a visiting scholar at Columbia University. Since 2009, she has been actively campaigning for LGBT rights and women's rights. At the Beijing LGBT Center, Ying has led advocacy and awareness campaigns against conversion therapy for LGBT persons and for the removal of homosexuality from the CCMD-3 (Chinese Classification of Mental Disorder). Ying also co-curated the China Women’s Film Festival and co-founded Wuhan Rainbow, a community-based LGBT organization. Ying was an initiator of National Survey on Discrimination based on Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Gender Expression in China conducted in partnership with the United Nations Development Program and Peking University. She also initiated the first National Survey on Living situation of transgender people in China.

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  Raquel Rodríguez

  MAEC
  MAEC

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  Paul Chavez (He/Them)

  Community Engagement Manager
  Los Angeles LGBT Center

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  Miguel Garzón

  Managing Director
  myGwork

  Director de myGwork en España con una larga trayectoria profesional y de formación en Reino Unido y Sudáfrica. Experiencia tanto en el sector público como privado, liderando equipos profesionales.

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  Pablo Gonzalez de la Torre

  FORBES 30UNDER30 | Founder & CEO
  Trivu

  Founder & CEO of @Wearetrivu | @FORBES 30UNDER30 Spain | @iebusiness Alumni | @EF_Fellows Global Youth Leader | @AEDtweets Board Member | @HumanAgeInsES Influencer

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  José Ignacio Miedes Juste

  Patient Advocacy Specialist
  GSK

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  Marcel Lepage, MBA

  Senior Associate Director
  IE Business School

  Psychologist and MBA with more than 8 years of experience in multinational companies in the financial, consumer and education sector, across EMEA and the Americas, working on HR strategy and Talent Management. Direct experience working with C¬-Level executives and accompnaying transformational projects, including transational acquisitions valued over €1BN advising on the change management strategy. Strong analitical and data driven mindset with strong stakeholder management skills,

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  Acto Paulson

  Audiovisual Communication
  It Gets Better España

  Graduada en Comunicación Audiovisual por la Escuela Politécnica Superior de Gandia. Community manager, redactora y profesora de talleres de escritura creativa para niñes. Lesbiana visible, artivista y activista. Voluntaria y Vicepresidenta de It Gets Better España.

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  Philippe Robertet Montesinos

  Deputy Director of International Relations
  INSTITUTO CERVANTES

  Philippe Robertet Montesinos Deputy Director of International Relations at the Instituto Cervantes (The public institution created by Spain in 1991 to universally promote the teaching, study and use of Spanish and to contribute to the dissemination of Hispanic cultures abroad) Graduate in Economics (Specialty: International economy and economic development) from Universidad Complutense in Madrid (Spain) After five years as external auditor in Ernst & Young, I joined the Instituto Cervantes (IC) in February 1992, just a few months after its creation. Over the last 27 years I have been involved with Accounting and Budget as Chief Accountant (1992 to 2003), with economic, finance and assets Management as Director of Administration (2003 to 2012), with strategy, analysis and management control as well as with project management as Deputy Director of Strategic Planning from 2012, and finally with International Relations and cultural Diplomacy. As deputy director of International Relations my fields of action are: Planning the activities of our organization abroad, specially building bridges and relations with strategic partners. Act as Focal Point of Instituto Cervantes at EUNIC Direct responsibility on a number of corporate projects (design and administration of the exams for Spanish nationality, design of a platform of hispanoamerican cultural diplomacy and cultural cooperation) Member of LGTBI platform EXteriorEsDiverso since its creation in 2019

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  Jose Ramos García

  Deputy Head of Consular Legal Affairs
  Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation of Spain

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  Ann Marie Docherty

  Deputy Centre Director
  JLL

  I am the Deputy Centre Director, for JLL managing a large shopping centre on the south coast of England, main responsibilities are for security, cleaning, health & safety, staff welfare, budgets and budget setting and the day to day running of the shopping centre. JLL have been hugely supportive of me both in my professional life and in my personnel life. I am originally from Glasgow, I visited Brighton for the weekend, and never left, that was 26years ago, I fell in love with the cosmopolitan life style, the ability to live my life as who I am, and not having to hide my sexuality was and still is liberating, not forgetting the much better weather.

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  Aritha Wickramasinghe

  Lawyer, policy expert, human rights activist.
  iProbono

  I am an international banking and real estate finance solicitor with substantial experience in providing premium advice and assistance on some of the largest international transactions in the market. I have always been a champion of diversity and equality in the workplace and lead and support a number of diversity and social mobility initiatives in the UK and Globally. I believe that people perform their best when they are free to be themselves. In order to encourage personal development and productivity growth, we need to create environments at work and elsewhere which encourages individuality and discourages prejudice. I believe in giving back to the community. I have initiated and contribute towards a variety of pro bono work across the world. I am a founding director of iProbono's Justice Programme, an organisation that connects civil society with pro bono legal help across the world and I am a founding trustee of THINK EQUAL - a new UN Human Rights Office endorsed education initiative that is working with countries to introduce a new subject into schools teaching children social and emotional intelligence. Over the next several years, I wish to continue my legal development. I want to develop a sound and niche knowledge of financial transactions with a projects and real estate focus while seeking exposure to emerging and frontier markets. Pro bono and diversity will remain a passion and I intend on continuing the development of my pro bono and diversity portfolio. Specialties: Finance, Real Estate Finance, Diversity networks, Pro bono iniatives, Human Rights and Public Policy

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  Lindsay Nuon

  Founder & CEO
  EmpirEqual

  Lindsay began her career in the US military 17 years ago and has since worked in the US Intelligence Community, with government agencies including NCIS, the FBI, and HHS, Akamai, Google, as an Adjunct Professor at the University of New Hampshire School of Law, and several startups including her own, EmpirEqual. She is also the Founder of a nonprofit devoted to serving Women of Color in Blockchain (WCB) and an ISACA Blockchain SME. Her commitment to transforming communities, organizations, and industries through Social Justice and technology initiatives have been covered in Al Jazeera, NBC, and quoted in various media outlets in and adjacent to the technology industry.

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  Alessandro Ceccarelli

  University of Cambridge

  Alessandro is President and Chair at Cambridge University Graduate Union. He has extensive experience in education, research and E&D policy, building on his career in the Higher Education sector over the past decade in Europe, India and UK. He has completed a PhD in Archaeology at the University of Cambridge. His research in South Asia aims to rediscover ancient technologies, teaching and learning behaviours, and mechanisms of resilience in the face of urban ‘collapse’ and climate change in the third millennium BC.

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  Vivek Divan

  Founding Coordinator
  Centre for Health Equity, Law & Policy

  I am a lawyer and queer activist whose work has focused on the intersections of law, health and sexuality for over two decades. I head the Centre for Health Equity, Law & Policy at the Indian Law Society, Pune. Previously, I have worked at UNDP New York, helping set up the Global Commission on HIV & the Law (www.hivlawcommission.org) and serving on it's Secretariat and Technical Advisory Group. At the Royal Tropical Institute, Amsterdam I was faculty in the Masters in Public Health programme. I was also Coordinator of Lawyers Collective HIV/AIDS Unit from 2000-07 ,where I was part of the core team that filed the public interest litigation challenging section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, and leading extensive community engagement and mobilization on the case. My work has also included co-drafting India's HIV/AIDS Act, undertaking access to medicines & patent law research and writing, and co-authoring the Legal Environment Assessment of TB in India. Originally from Bombay, I received my law degree from the National Law School of India University, Bangalore and my LLM from Cornell University, NY, USA.

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  Georgie Court

  Global Inclusion Specialist
  Clifford Chance

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  Toby Horner

  Practice Management Advisor
  Clifford Chance Pte Ltd

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  Tehzeeb Fatima Bukhari

  Future Trainee Solicitor
  Clifford Chance

  LLB Finalist at the School of Oriental and African Studies. As a queer Muslim woman, it is my prerogative to create safe spaces for those in the LGBTQIA+ community and advocate for the rights of those intersections of society that are vulnerable, as I have also faced the struggles many young people who identify with these communities have faced. I believe in the important of visibility and equal opportunities in the development of any professional career field. As a future trainee solicitor at Clifford Chance, I hope I can become a role model for other queer professional Muslim women like myself. To truly thrive as a person in all avenues in life, I strongly believe that being able to be your true authentic self lies in enabling and inclusive environments which not only give a sense of belonging but aid you in flourishing as an individual. Now that I have a voice, I want to use it for those who do not or are just beginning to use theirs.

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  Savannah Adeniyan

  Trainee Solicitor
  Clifford Chance

  I am a trainee solicitor at Clifford Chance LLP in London, though I'm currently working in the firm's Amsterdam office on an international secondment. I have a keen interest in finance law and in supporting various diversity initiatives, whether through working with Clifford Chance's REACH Network or working with our Arcus network to talk to lawyers, other professionals or students or simply sharing my experiences as a gay black woman in other ways.

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  Tiernan Brady

  Global Inclusion Director
  Clifford Chance

  Tiernan is the Global Director of Inclusion for Clifford Chance. He is an equality campaigner and was the Political Director of the successful Irish referendum campaign for marriage equality which saw Ireland become the first country in the world to introduce marriage equality by a public vote. He subsequently became the Executive Director of The Equality Campaign, the successful Australian public vote campaign for marriage equality. They remain the only two countries in the world to have introduced marriage equality through a public vote. He is also the Director of Equal Future, a global campaign working with LGBT faith groups to deliver equality. He served as Policy Director of GLEN – The Gay and Lesbian Equality Network in Ireland where he was responsible for designing and implementing the successful political strategy to pass civil unions legislation. He designed and launched KnowNow, Ireland's first free community based rapid HIV testing program. He served as Director of Organisation to the then Tánaiste (Deputy Prime Minister) of Ireland, Mary Coughlan as well as serving two terms as Mayor of his home town of Bundoran in Ireland.

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  Dasha Karzunina

  Head of Research
  GTI

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  George Wright

  Student Engagement Lead
  myGwork

  In charge of myGwork's student outreach and opportunities for graduates. Law student at the University of London. Stand up-comedian.

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  Ligia Thomaz Vieira Leite

  Assistant Researcher
  Getulio Vargas Foundation Law School's Diversity Program

  As a Law student in the University of the State of Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), I'm an active member of LGBTheusa, the LGBT student association of UERJ's Law School. Believing in interdisciplinary exchange, I am also enrolled in Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro (PUC-Rio) for a BA in Portuguese. Working with Human Rights as a volunteer since 2012 brought my attention to the importance of working with employers to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace as well as in other aspects of life. Since 2019 I've been an assistant researcher at the Diversity Program of the Getulio Vargas Foundation's Law School, focusing mostly on gender studies in Law and diversity practices within universities and enterprises. Believing also in the power of change through cultural production, I'm a writer for Revista Subjetiva, New Order and Revista Passaporte and a columnist in the local newspaper of my hometown Voz de S. João. Specialities: Gender Studies, Criminology, Human Rights, Literature, Theory of Law.

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  Phyll Opoku-Gyimah

  Co-Founder & Executive Director
  UK Black Pride

  Phyll Opoku-Gyimah, widely known as Lady Phyll, is the executive director and co-founder of UK Black Pride - Europe's largest celebration for LGBTQ+ people of African, Asian, Caribbean, Latin American and Middle Eastern descent. Lady Phyll has over 20 years’ experience as an LGBTQ+ rights activist and anti-racism campaigner. She has spent a decade advocating for the rights of workers within the largest civil service union as a lead negotiator on behalf of Civil Service workers and is now the Executive Director of Kaleidoscope Trust an LGBT+ charity that works to defend and uphold human rights. She is also a patron for Albert Kennedy Trust; Diva Magazine columnist, and public speaker focusing on race, gender, sexuality and class. She is named as one of the top 5 on the World Pride Power list.

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  Max Taylor

  SOAS, University of London

  • Co-Chair of National Student Pride • SOAS Politics and International Relations finalist student • Erasmus Alumnus of SciencesPo, Paris • Top 10 Finalist for UK Male Undergraduate of the Year Award

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  Laura Yeates - Chartered FCIPD

  Head of Graduate Talent
  Clifford Chance

  Laura Yeates is Head of Graduate Talent at the global law firm, Clifford Chance. In her most recent role she oversees the graduate recruitment and development teams, both of which have won awards for ground-breaking initiatives focused on improving access to the legal profession, tackling the stigma of mental health and sexual harassment in the workplace. She joined Clifford Chance in 2006, having previously worked at J.P. Morgan in both the graduate recruitment team and also in a generalist HR role. With over fifteen years graduate recruitment experience and five years HR experience, she is a Fellow of the CIPD, a Trustee of the Bridge Group, a member of the National Student Pride Steering Committee and on the Advisory Board of The Apples & Pears Foundation, a London based charity enabling inner city families to take weekend school trips with their children and volunteers. She is also a former Board Director of the Institute of Student Employers.

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  Tyler Brklacich

  IE University

  I have spent nearly 7 years working in and out of the non-profit world. It has been my love and passion to try and leave the world a little better than I found it yesterday. Even after all these years, I am still excited as I was the very first day of my first job with an NGO. I have been able to focus on issues including anti-human trafficking, global poverty, autism, elementary and higher education, and international development -- but there is so much more to do. Issues such as gender development, racial injustices, low-income communities, LGBT equality, education, and promoting sustainable development both domestically and internationally. I want to continue the work I have been so lucky to be apart of and use the worldly experience that I have gained both in the United States, traveling abroad, or living in West Africa for two years. It is my goal to be apart of something bigger than myself and contribute to the good in the world.

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  Tom Guy

  President/Chair
  National Student Pride / Architecture LGBT+

  In 2005 I founded National Student Pride whilst at Oxford Brookes University in response to a homophobic talk on campus on Homosexuality and the Bible. We are now the Pride of conversation, tackling different and topical issues each year such as Intersectionality and Mental Health as well as hosting the UK's biggest Diversity Careers Fair. In 2016 I founded Architecture LGBT+ providing a safe, inclusive & prejudice free environment for LGBT+ Architects and those working and studying within the profession through networking events, learning, mentoring and role models. I am Director at Guy Piper Architects, we do a range of residential and commercial projects in London, Oxford and Brighton.

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  Zoe Jenkins

  Graduate Recruitment Specialist
  Clifford Chance

  Zoe is a Graduate Recruitment Specialist at the leading Global Law Firm Clifford Chance, ranked as the most popular graduate recruiter in law at the 2019 TARGETjobs Awards. Zoe leads on the firms LGBT+ Grad activity, including their one of a kind ACCEPT Conference in collaboration with myGwork and National Student Pride that aims to provide an opportunity for LGBT+ students interested in a career in law to hear from senior role models and understand how your sexuality can complement your career.

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  Deon Fang

  Trainee Solicitor
  Clifford Chance

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  Sergio Diaz Jubera

  Engineering Manager, Software Development
  Oracle

  Hi! I'm a computer engineer leading software development teams at Oracle Barcelona, with more than 10 years of experience working in different US-based companies and government institutions in Spain and Chile. Apart from my job as software engineer, I'm an advocate of all dimensions of diversity and inclusion. That's why since a couple of years ago I'm also the leader of Oracle’s LGBTQ+ Spanish ERG.

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  Michael Jones

  Global Head of Learning & Development
  SR Group

  Hi everyone, I am an out and proud gay man, working in the recruitment sector for almost 15 years. I am a Learning & Development professional and am passionate about helping others reach their potential, particularly people at the graduate and entry-level. I'm available to give young LGBTQ+ professionals career and job-seeking advice, as well as share my experiences of coming out and learning how to be my authentic self. Please feel free to get in touch!

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  CAINE YOUNGMAN

  POLICY & LEGAL ADVOCACY MANAGER
  LEGABIBO

  Mr Youngman is a passionate human rights activist with 15 years experience (both local, regional & international) in advocacy with particular focus on development, human rights and health advocacy. Mr Youngman is one of the founding members of The Lesbians, Gays and Bisexuals of Botswana - LEGABIBO. As a pillar of the organisation and the movement at large, he saw the organisation victorious in multiple litigation processes as well as change at national and regional level. As a social justice advocate, Mr Youngman is a fighter who continues to fight for human rights including legal recognition and protection for SOGIE individuals. Furthermore, he is an advocate for gender equality, access to comprehensive safe and affordable health services & medications. Community mobilization, strategic partnerships establishments, political engagements as well as training are some of the many skills possessed by Mr Youngman that helps him achieve social change. Mr Youngman also has strong footprints in the African region. He is one of the instrumental members who saw the African region set up a regional body, Pan African ILGA - PAI which is an affiliate of ILGA World. PAI is a regional organisation with over 130 members across Africa. He served as PAI's founding board treasurer. He also serves as a member of The Other Foundation's advocacy group comprised of leading LGBTIQ organisations in the Southern African. The Other Foundation is a philanthropic organisation focused in Southern Africa.

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  Victoria Vasey

  Head of Legal
  The Human Dignity Trust

  Victoria is Head of Legal at the Human Dignity Trust, a charity that uses the law to defend the human rights of LGBT people globally. She has been involved in supporting court cases in all regions of the world that seek to decriminalise LGBT people and challenge other discriminatory actions against them, including several landmark cases that are pushing the boundaries of international and constitutional law. Before joining the Trust, Victoria was Legal Director at the European Roma Rights Centre and, most recently, Director of North Kensington Law Centre. Previously, Victoria was a criminal defence barrister in London. She has experience of litigating strategic human rights cases, with a focus on equality law, in many European jurisdictions and before the European Court of Human Rights, the European Committee of Social Rights and UN treaty bodies. She has delivered training in human rights and strategic litigation to human rights defenders, students, lawyers and judges. Victoria’s first degree is from Oxford University and she holds a DESS (Masters) in International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law from the University of Paris II (Panthéon-Assas).

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  Salmaan Mohammed

  Public Policy Expert, Public Health Advocate, Healthcare Professional, DEI Consultant, Drag Queen, DJ
  Self Employed

  I am a Policy professional with 12 years' experience in the Public Health, Social Care, Diversity & Inclusion, Humanitarian Aid, Grassroots campaigning and Public Engagement. I'm also an Internationally performing Drag Queen with a string of Arts commissions and TV appearances, using this often berated art form to tell stories that matter and can reshape our world. Read about my career portfolio and unlikely journey here: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/my-linkedin-coming-out-story-sal-mohammed

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  Chloë Davies

  Head of PR & Partnerships
  myGwork

  Chloe Davies is an activist, proud bisexual woman, mother of two, chef and entrepreneur, who campaigns for inclusion and equality in social spaces, corporate organisations and the wider community. She spent over 15 years working in retail, artist management and PR before starting her own company in 2015. Chloe is Head of PR & Partnerships for myGwork - The global recruitment and networking hub for LGBT professionals and organisations promoting diversity and inclusion. Chloe volunteers with UK Black Pride (UKBP) as the Strategic Officer, working closely with the Executive Director and the Board of Directors to help shape the future of UK Black Pride. She is also the Community Lead for the London Queer Fashion Show - An annual showcase of fashion, identity, and expression.

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  Dilraj Sura

  Commercial Insights Partner (Respiratory)
  GSK

  I have been working in the healthcare industry for over 5 years, with much of that time spent at GSK. I have worked in various roles across manufacturing, R&D, commercial and HR, providing excellence in insightful data visualisation and powerful storytelling, advocating data-driven evidence-based decision-making, underpinned by robust data science, effective consulting and the procurement of best in class data. I have been a leader of our LGBTQ+ employee resource group, Spectrum, since 2017, helping drive the LGBTQ+ agenda while working at sites in Hertfordshire and County Durham, before joining our UK Leadership Team in July 2019. I am extremely passionate and fascinated about people, and exploring the "intersectionalities" that we all exhibit (or often, don't), on a day to day basis, more so how they lend ourselves to experiences we may not have when these don't interact. I believe we all should be allowed to truly express our true selves, all the time. I also work very closely with our Allies at GSK, trying to tap into what is essentially, a big majority of people who are often "passive/positive" allies, to step up and step "out" to do more to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, visibility and inclusion. Lastly, a big passion of mine is mentoring. I've recently decided to become an LGBTQ+ mentor through myGwork, as I look to extend where my experiences can be most useful, beyond the graduates and placement students within the workplace. Outside of work, I spend a lot of time playing and watching football (you can read my article "LGBT and Sports" on myGwork's LinkedIn page, aswell as my profile), as well as travelling (I managed to get in some trips to Reykjavik, Porto, Madrid and Valencia before lock down). I've recently gotten a lot more into running and cycling (now that I've sold my car!).

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  Colette Comerford

  Head of Inclusion & Culture
  LGIM - Legal & General Investment Managment

  Colette Comerford Head of Inclusion & Culture at Legal & General Investment Management Colette joined LGIM in 2018 from M&G Investments where she spent nearly a decade working to create and maintain a balanced workforce. During her tenure, she helped grow and implement M&G’s Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) strategy addressing gender, ethnicity, nationality, LGBT, cultural diversity, social backgrounds and mental health/wellbeing. During her career, she also held senior roles in employer brand, talent attraction and retention, delivering innovative solutions to ensure a diverse candidate pipeline. Colette is responsible for driving the evolution and continuous improvement of LGIM’s culture, as well as LGIM’s diversity and inclusion objectives. Colette works closely with the executive team, LGIM’s diversity and inclusion team (LEGIT), and Legal & General’s Group Diversity and Inclusion team. Colette is a member of the Diversity Project's Steering Group – an initiative which aims to accelerate progress towards an inclusive culture and achieve diversity across all dimensions in the investment profession, and LGBT Great's Lead Role Model Ambassador.

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  Rhammel Afflick

  Director of Communications
  Pride in London

  Rhammel Afflick is an outspoken campaigner and writer. For the last 15 years, Rhammel has actively lobbied for change on a number of issues including racism and LGBT+ rights in the UK. Rhammel currently works full time in the third-sector and volunteers for Pride in London as Director of Communications in his spare time.

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  Louise Sinnerton

  Executive Producer & Writer
  myGwork

  An award-winning writer and director with experience developing content strategies and creating copy for brands across the world. Louise has a strong journalistic background and a passion for storytelling and interviews. She has led international video campaigns, interviews on and off camera, hosted panels, and directed live broadcasts and international shoots.

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  Emily Heath

  Diversity & Inclusion Manager
  Verizon Media

  A passionate and commercially focused Diversity and Inclusion Manager with multi-industry expertise, and a deep understanding of advanced diversity techniques. Starting in Executive search, followed by 5 years of extensive in house talent specialist roles. At the inception of Oath (now Verizon Media) the opportunity for me to combine my passion for people, culture and diversity was realised. Currently leading our EMEA Program Operations, I also Globally Lead our 9 Employee Resource groups (ERGs). Our ERGs membership is 5,500+, this makes up more than half our employees around the world. Our goal at Verizon Media it to move to a mindset of Conscious Inclusion, a place where everyone belongs and every door is open. Focused on the 4C's model our ERGs are the embodiment of our culture, talent and our aspiration to be the leading organisation for Inclusion and Belonging.

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  Alison Shea

  Vice President Global HR and Corporate Citizenship - Learning and Transformation
  State Street

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  Sanjay Sood-Smith

  Executive Director
  Stonewall

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  Michael Gunning

  Professional Athlete / TV Personality
  Team Jamaica

  Michael Gunning is best known as a international competitive swimmer having attended two FINA World Swimming Championships. Holding dual Jamaican and British citizenship, he represented Team GB in the European LEN Cup and after the Rio Olympic Games he changed alliances to represent his fathers heritage of Team Jamaica. Gunning took a break from competing in the Summer of 2018 to participate in the award-winning television series 'The Bi Life' for E! Entertainment & NBC Universal. It was Michael's first public discussion of his sexuality, making him the Caribbean’s first openly gay athlete / swimmer. Since then, Michael is a regular pundit and avid speaker for the sport and recently partnered with Sky Sports, Stonewall and Athlete Ally as a Professional Ambassador/Advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in sport. With a heavy passion for TV Presenting and educational background in Children’s Entertainment, he’s set his sights high on qualifying for the Tokyo Olympic Games and welcomes new and exciting media opportunities in the world of entertainment.

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  Christian Hug

  VP LifeWorks&Inclusion
  Discovery

  I have spent my professional career in human resources, both in the financial services industry as well as in media. For the past 9 years i have been focusing on setting up Discovery's global health, wellbeing and inclusion function, being based in Munich Germany. As a certified coach, I also accompany people through their personal change journeys, I have a passion for constellation work, vintage cars, alternative medicine and love travelling through India. www.christian-hug.net

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  Emma Cusdin

  Director
  Global Butterflies

  Emma Cusdin has over 20 years’ experience in Human Resources having worked for global financial services organisations. She is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development. Emma is an openly trans woman, having transitioned in 2009, and she is passionate about raising awareness of trans & non-binary issues. Emma has spoken at many trans & non-binary events organised by leading private sector companies. She has been featured in the Financial Times and has written a number of blogs including for the Huffington Post and HR Zone. Emma was a Trustee for the Gender Identity Research & Education Society (GIRES) and she chaired the National Trans Youth Conference for 2 years in succession. She also was a co-founder for Trans*formation. She was delighted to receive the Positive LGBT Role Model Award at the National Diversity Awards and she appeared in the OUT at work top 50 UK LGBT Executives. In 2019, Emma was delighted to receive the Prime Minister’s Office Point of Light award in recognition for her tireless work in trans & non-binary inclusion. Emma is a Director at Global Butterflies, a company that has been extremely successful in bringing about trans & non-binary inclusion and acceptence within corporate organisations in the UK, US and Canada.

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  Claire Skinner

  Principle
  Marsh & McLennan Companies

  Claire is Head of Content and Delivery within the Mercer UK Fiduciary team as well as leading the 40+ UK Diversity & Inclusion Champions across the UK, linking in with the D&I Advisory Board for the UK. In 2018 Claire was appointed global co-chair of the Mercer Pride (LGBT+) Business Resource Group and was shortlisted for the British LGBT Awards Diversity Champion Category. In 2019 Claire won the Professional Pensions Women in Pensions Role Model of the year award and works with a number of other LGBT+ organisations including LBWomen, Diversity Role Models and the Midlands Alliance.

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  Kate Fisher

  Enterprise Account Manager
  Oracle

  Seasoned sales professional and a dynamic, engaging leader and speaker for the LGBTQ+ community seeking to empower others to embrace vulnerability and thrive in their personal story. Motivated to develop authentic leaders that lead from their strengths. Active in building safe workplace environments that value, promote and recruit diverse talent as a global co-chair for the Oracle OPEN (Oracle Pride Employee Network) an LGBTQ+ ERG. Proud contributing member of the Board of Directors for one-n-ten a nonprofit organization serving and assisting LGBTQ+ youth.

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  Aseel Altuwaijri

  HR Officer
  United Nations

  Aseel is from Kuwait and is a Human Resources Officer at the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). She holds a MSc in Human Resources Management and Development. Aseel has been an advocate in Kuwait and the UN for trans rights and trans inclusive policies. She volunteers for UN GLOBE, the group representing LGBTIQ+ staff in the UN system, advising the board on trans-affairs.

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  Louise Wolstenholme

  Vice Chair Army LGBT+ Forum
  British Army

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  Chantelle Miller

  Army Officer
  British Army

  Major Chantelle Miller was commissioned into the British Army in 2011 after reading Law Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of South Wales. As a Military Police Officer she has deployed to Afghanistan advising the Minister of Interior Affairs on the development of policing capability. Having served as an instructor at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) and the Afghanistan National Army Officer Academy (ANAOA) she has extensive experience operating in a leadership development sphere. She is currently completing Professional Military Education (PME) and a Master of Business Administration qualification. On completion of PME she will be assigned to US Army, Military Police School as the Military Police Exchange Officer. She is married to Tara and they have a beagle called Chilli.

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  Sanchia Constance

  Data Analyst
  GSK

  I'm Sanchia. I've been working with GSK for nearly 6 years. I started off in the Quality labs as a lab analyst and moved up to senior analyst before I joined the Quality Data Team. As part of these roles, I have had experience with lab work, batch approval, investigations, and data system set up. I'm super passionate about equality for women and LGBTQ+ people. I identify as Bi and have been out at work for around 3 years or so. I sit on the leadership team of GSK's LGBTQ+ employee resource group and the site committee for the disability confidence employee resource group. My aims are to make talking about things such as LGBTQ+ and hidden disabilities part of everyday conversation, and to reduce the stigma bisexual people face and combat bi-erasure. Feel free to message me if you want to talk/have ideas about how to improve Bi+ resources for companies, or anything to do with Health and Wellbeing of LGBTQ+ folk. https://www.mygwork.com/en/my-g-news/my-hope-for-the-future-is-that-mental-health-becomes-a-natural-part-of-conversation-an-interview-with-sanchia-constance This is a piece I wrote for Mental Health Awareness Week.

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  Tess Brooks

  Vice Chair
  Bi Pride UK

  Tess is a psychotherapist, LGBTQIA awareness trainer, and Senior Independence and Wellbeing Practitioner. They have a Private Practice- Starlight Therapy- where they work exclusively with Gender Relationship and Sexually Diverse clients. They deliver LGBTQIA awareness sessions in various settings from schools to corporate away days and they work within the Learning Disability and Autism team at Suffolk Social care. Tess is passionate about giving their time and energy to support their community and is a Co-chair of the Suffolk County Council LGBT+ Staff Network and Vice-Chair of Bi Pride UK.  Website- www.Starlighttherapy.co.uk , www.Biprideuk.org Facebook, IG and Twitter- StarlTherapy, BiPrideUK

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  Rachel Reese

  CEO
  Global Butterflies

  Rachel Reese is an experienced and engaging (and often humorous) facilitator and consultant who specialises in helping companies create a trans and non-binary inclusive workplace. She supports organisations through a number of ways, from coaching senior level decision makers, to delivering general training sessions, to supporting HR teams. In 2019, Rachel wrote (alongside Emma Cusdin) the Lloyds of London Trans & Non-binary Guide which has hit the City of London with great acclaim. Rachel has spoken in front of audiences all over the UK, US and Canada and has worked with many large and small businesses in regard to their trans and non-binary initiatives. Having started her career in avionics as a software engineer, Rachel later moved into the legal sector after retraining as a lawyer. She passed The Law Society Solicitors Final Exams in the 90s. During this time she was diagnosed with Gender Dysphoria, and later while she was working at The College of Law, she transitioned her gender expression from male to female; this at a time when it was difficult to be out and trans in the City. She worked in a number of senior operational roles, eventually rising up to Production Director. In 2015, Rachel founded Global Butterflies, a trans and non-binary inclusion training company that comprises of trans only staff. Global Butterflies donates a percentage of its profits to LGBT+ causes. Rachel gives up much of her free time as a trans and non-binary inclusion advocate to many orgainations which include; Vice-chair of the Law Society’s LGBT Lawyers Division Committee, Trustee for GiveOut ,Judging the People In Law Awards, Mentor to Aspiring Solicitors LGBT+ Scholarship candidates, Judge for the OUTvertising Awards. Rachel addressed the Pride In London Gala Dinner in regard to trans and non-binary rights in the UK and the Pride In London breakfast for CMS (Pride In London sponsor).

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  Tate Smith

  Junior Legal Support Secretary
  Clifford Chance

  Proud trans man currently working at Clifford Chance as a Junior Legal Secretary whilst studying Law at Birkbeck part-time. Outside of my work and studies I volunteer at Spectra, Gendered Intelligence and Opening Doors and have just recently been appointed Trans Representative at Birkbeck’s Student Union.

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  Gurchaten Sandhu

  President
  UN GLOBE

  Born to Indian migrant parents in the UK, Gurchaten (Nanoo) Sandhu (he/his; they/them) is a Programme Support Officer at the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work Branch. Alongside his B.A. (HONS) in Economics and MSc in Development Economics, his passion for social justice has led him to focus his efforts on promoting the principle of non-discrimination in employment and occupation. Over the past 12 years, Gurchaten has built his expertise and knowledge on promoting social justice through quality, decent and inclusive work for all, in particular to enhance LGBTIQ+ rights at work and economic inclusion. He also finds the time to volunteer as President for UN GLOBE, the group representing LGBTIQ+ staff in the UN system. As its President, he works to ensure the voice and rights of LGBTI staff are represented in UN policies and procedures. He also serves as committee member of International Family Equality Day NGO, advising on non-discrimination based on family status in the world of work, and is a fellow of the Salzburg Global LGBT forum. In 2018 & 2019, he was listed as the Top 30 OUTstanding Role Model in the Public Sector.

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  Kirsten Dagless

  Assistant Head of Professional Development
  British Army

  Colonel Kirsten Dagless was commissioned into the British Army in 1999. Her early service saw tours in Northern Ireland, Germany and Iraq. She holds a Master of Arts in Defence Studies, a joint honours degree in French and German, a Post Graduate Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership, a Post Graduate Certificate in Higher and Professional Education and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport. An experienced military officer, she has a demonstrated history of working in talent development, workforce planning, personnel employment policy and logistics. She is currently employed as the Assistant Head of Professional Development for the British Army, responsible for the development and delivery of military training and education.

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  Chris Bell

  Major General
  British Army

  Major General Chris Bell was commissioned into the British Army in 1994 after reading Geography at Oxford. His early service was spent on operational tours with the Scots Guards followed by a period of military study in The United States where he completed two Master’s programmes. More recently in his career, after subsequent promotions, he was appointed as the Director of an Army Transformation Programme, to deliver the diverse talent and career pathways required for a 21st Century force. His current position is General Officer Commanding Army Recruitment and Initial Training of all Officers and Soldiers of the British Army.

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  Arlene McDermott

  Portfolio Director
  London Stock Exchange Group

  Recently becoming Co-chair of London Stock Exchange Group’s (LSEG) Proud LGBT+ network has made me realise that we all still have more to do to fully smash the corporate closet and show support for our community in the workplace. When I first came out, being out at work didn’t feel safe and was full of uncertainty. But now I have been out at work for many years because I assume that my management and my colleagues simply won’t care. And as far as I’m aware I’ve been right so far. But I’ve realised that’s not necessarily the case for everyone. I talk to people across the city who feel that LGBT+ issues may not be supported by senior executives. I also meet people who are unsure of how they would be received if they come out at work and are therefore filtering out a huge part of themselves. With enormous support, through our network I am committed to demonstrating the power of being out in the workplace. Being out at work is not only good for the individual, it’s good for teams, departments and whole companies. It’s good for productivity and it’s good for the bottom line. So I encourage anyone who may be afraid of being out at work to reach out to your network or to trusted colleagues and take a small risk for a huge reward.

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  Deena Fidas

  Managing Director - Chief Program & Partnerships Officer
  Out & Equal

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  Steve Keith

  Event Facilitator
  myGwork

  I support myGwork with the delivery of their digital events. I am also the founder and chief behavioural officer of The Branding Man, where I work with employers to create inclusive brand campaigns and experiences that help young people to find careers where they can develop a better sense of belonging. I host a weekly podcast, My Career Story, where I interview people about their career journey to date. To celebrate Pride Month 2020 I have dedicated all episodes to members of the LGBT+ community.

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  Martin Kmiecik

  Co-Founder & CEO
  Diversity Pride

  Martin is an ambitious multipreneur, management consultant and LGBTQ activist, working with companies across Europe, Asia and the Americas on their inclusion for all strategies. Martin, alongside being CEO of Diversity Pride consultancy, delivers Executive Education programmes at London Business School, ESCP and MIT focused on inclusive leadership development, inclusive marketing & advertising and HR strategy in transforming organisation. Martin actively works with activists from around the world fighting for LGBTQ rights. After a recent visit to Poland, Martin's motherland, to amplify voices of those who combat the so-called ‘LGBT-free zones’ and encourage global companies to be more active in countries where LGBTQ community faces discrimination.

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  Lau Viggo Albjerg

  Brand Management Consultant
  Independent

  Hi, Welcome to my profile. Feel free to reach out for any requests or networking. 15 years of experience in International Brand Management and Marketing across Northern Europe at companies like Colgate, Beiersdorf, and GSK. Consulting start-ups and medium-sized businesses on growth strategies, brand management, and marketing. As a Coach, I am combining my experience from the corporate industry with my passion for digital media and people development. Running 1:1 career consulting and workshops on everything digital. I have been involved in large scale organisational restructures and supported regional deployment as a change agent and ambassador. Certified as a coach in Cognitive Behavioural Coaching and studying for a MA in Digital Media Management (graduating 2020). Originally from Copenhagen, Denmark, but have been living in London since 2017. A passionate explorer of the world and besides the UK, I have also live in the US, Australia and Germany. Areas of expertise: Coaching | ATL and Digital Media | Strategy | Go-To Market | Business Development | Nordic, Dutch and UK Markets (https://www.linkedin.com/in/laualbjerg/)

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  KK Harris

  Executive Coach
  Self Employed

  KK Harris is from Los Angeles and her heritage is both Native American Indian and African American. She knows what the lack of inclusion feels like first hand. She remembers going to a bathroom in Mississippi and reading signs that said “colored” and how confusing that was as a four year old. On that same trip her mother had brought her to meet her grandmother and put flowers on her brothers grave who as a teenager was shot in the back as he walked out of the shop by a white racist. Unfortunately the injustice of prejudice continues to affect the lives of many and so standing for the rights of diverse acceptance is important to her. Today KK is a Certified Executive Coach, with major firms in the City of London, specialising in the delivery of Mitigating Unconscious Bias training to large organisations. She is also an author of a parenting book and has a Career coaching practice aimed at helping women from diverse backgrounds . KK doesn’t hold back or make any apologies yet always aims to find solutions. When she delivers a session it should not be missed.

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  Sasha Scott

  CEO
  Inclusive Group

  Sasha Scott runs the Inclusive Group team and is considered an international thought-leader on diversity, bias, inclusivity and managing psychological health.

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  Andrew Dent

  Global Head of Corporate Responsibility & Inclusion
  Clyde & Co

  I have been a D&I professional for 16 years. Although personal experiences at work over the years got my more interested in D&I, I wasn’t sure if a full time role was for me. Initially applying for a maternity cover role, I’ve worked in the legal sector since 2009 and prior to that work in Investment Banking. In 2015 I took on my first combined Corporate Responsibility and D&I to broaden my experience but also to better link the two areas. One of the best things about my role is that it continually evolves and challenges me.

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  Maxwell King

  Consultant
  Loftus Bradford Executive Search

  A specialist headhunter engaging senior level executive search work for prominent multinationals, working principally in data & analytics along with legal but also with experience in HR and commercial functions. In his previous company he advised Senior Associates and Partners on their careers and orchestrated their moves between different leading law firms.

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  Cheryl Lander

  Sr. Director, Release Management
  Oracle

  Cheryl Lander, San Jose, CA, is the Sr. Director, Oracle CX Industries Release Management, responsible for ensuring quality and compliance of industry-specific SaaS releases. During her career, she has managed nearly all aspects of product development including documentation, training and enablement, QA, release engineering, program/release management, and human factors. At Oracle, she also is Board Co-Chair of the Oracle Pride Employee Network (OPEN) – LGBTQ+ and Allies, a global Oracle employee resource group, and an executive sponsor for her local Oracle Women’s Network (OWL) group. She represents Oracle on the Silicon Valley/San Francisco Alliance of LGBTQ+ ERGs; has represented Oracle at Lesbians Who Tech, Out & Equal Executive Forum, and Out & Equal Workplace Summit; and is a charter member of the Silicon Valley Rainbow Rotary. She also is a facilitator with the South Bay Pachamama Alliance team, a group that promotes an environmentally sustainable, spiritually fulfilling, and socially just human presence on our planet. She and her wife enjoy travel, photography, and volunteer with a handful of non-profits, including C.A.R.E. (a dog rescue organization from whom they adopted their two Carnoodles, Salt and Pepper), Stage One Theatre (local community theater), and Silicon Valley Child Advocates (advocate for foster children).

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  Martyn Thomas

  Global Senior Talent Acquisition Lead
  Booking.com

  As a Teenager I had hopes and dreams of escaping to the bright lights of London so that I could truly be myself and make it as a professional Actor. Both of these dreams were realised and so much more than I could have imagined. But it was tough going. As the World changed, I changed and my direction changed. Now I am a Talent Acquisition and HR professional for nearly 15 years. I had a huge passion for talent search and offering experiences that matter, be it to the Business or to Candidates. In TA you can really change lives, and you can impact the Business and People in a huge way. As a Leader I am still passionate about these things, but more so it is about growth, of my people.... in terms of craft but also as Human Beings. It's a pleasure to observe growth in people and know that you have contributed to that in some way. I focus a lot on realising a culture of inclusion and belonging and recognise having a sense of purpose and clear direction will foster feelings of care and pride in your work which in turn brings results. I am a proud to work for an organisation that celebrates diversity and stands for equality, that also recognises that there is still a lot of work to do. I have a role in that with my team, as a member of our LGBTQ+ resource group, as an Ally to all the others.... and as a Human.

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  Sarah Fennell

  Head of Diversity and Inclusion - EMEA
  Macquarie Group Limited

  Sarah is the Head of Diversity and Inclusion for Macquarie in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, working to embed an intersectional approach to inclusion throughout the employee lifecycle and to create psychological safety, belonging and innovation. Prior to joining Macquarie she lead EMEA D&I at Moody's and worked at HSBC for 12 years in a variety of roles including Global Insurance Strategy and International Relationship Manager. She finished as Acting Head of Diversity and Inclusion for the UK before the UK head office move to Birmingham. She was selected as a top 5 Corporate Rising Star by the British LGBT Awards in 2015 and 2016 and was a judge for the awards in 2017.

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  Cathryn Pool

  Employment Policy
  Royal Air Force

  Squadron Leader Pool is a RAF personnel officer, whose service has principally been in the human resources, media and operational fields. She currently works at HQ Air Command on the Employment Policy team which manage all leave types, terms and conditions of service and alternative working arrangements, including flexible working. She holds a Masters in Strategic Human Resources Management and is currently studying for an MBA through Canfield University.

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  Debbie Lentz

  President, Global Supply Chain
  RS Components

  Debbie Lentz is President, Global Supply Chain for Electrocomponents, a global distributor of electronic and industrial products. She is a member of the Executive Leadership Team and is based in London. Debbie is responsible for developing and executing all aspects of supply chain strategy as well as building capability of her organization. The mission is to create a best in class, flexible and efficient supply chain, providing an innovative and sustainable market-leading service for customers and suppliers. In 2019, Debbie joined Wincanton as a member of the Board of Directors, the largest British logistics firm, providing supply chain consultancy and solutions to the world’s most admired brands. Wincanton employs approximately 17,700 people across 200 sites and has a fleet of 3600 vehicles. Debbie Lentz’s career stands as a shining example of navigating supply chain leadership roles through change. Performing successfully in diverse business situations and applying the full spectrum of supply chain skills, she has earned recognition throughout the industry as a visionary leader, strategic thinker, team builder and strong proponent of women’s leadership. She has many years of supply chain, information systems, global procurement and operations experience with extensive work in integrating acquisitions, building and consolidation of networks, and driving performance excellence, end to end process optimization and significant cost and service improvement. Debbie is the former SVP, Chief Supply Chain Officer for Toys’R’Us, Inc. where she was responsible for all supply chain functions globally including Dotcom/Omni Channel Fulfillment, Merchandise Planning and Allocation, Sales and Operations Planning and Engineering. Before joining Toys‘R’Us, Debbie spent 13 years at Kraft Foods where she achieved successful international leadership and a true cross-cultural perspective. At Kraft, she advanced to the position of Senior Vice President, Customer Service and Logistics. In this role, she oversaw 3,500 associates across a network of distribution centers, direct store delivery branches and a transportation fleet. She led a successful transformation which drove significant cost savings, inventory reduction and service improvement as well as the seamless separation and spin off of Kraft Foods Group from Mondelēz International for Logistics. Prior to this role, she lived and worked in Zurich, Switzerland where she was the Vice President of Manufacturing Operations for Kraft Europe’s $3.5B coffee business and Vice President of Customer Service and Logistics. In 2015, she was presented with the AWESOME Legendary Leadership award; in 2013, she received the “Thinkers & Movers” Award from DSC Logistics, and in 2008, the Robert D. Pashek award for significant contributions to the practice and development of supply chain by Penn State University. She served on the Board of Directors of the International Women’s Forum Leadership Foundation from 2007 through 2015 and for the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) in 2015. Debbie has actively participated in AWESOME as an advisor since its inception in 2013.

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  John Wilson

  Group VP People & Culture
  Discovery

  Group VP of Discovery's People & Culture team, based in LA. I've been with Discovery since May 2011. I'm also a qualified employment lawyer and was in private practice for 10 years prior to starting my career in HR at Discovery. In my current role, I support the Factual US Networks and the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN). I transferred to LA from London in 2017.

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  Jason Sloan

  Organisational Development Lead
  GSK

  I help individuals, teams and organisations perform at their best. I am an organisational development and business strategy development/deployment expert with more than 18 years experience in a global, corporate environment. In addition, I have more than 5 years professional experience working in education/non-profit community organisations. I am NTL OD certified. I am a trained and experienced business coach and a certified practitioner of the GSK developed accelerating delivery and performance (ADP) program that integrates the disciplines of change management, project management and organisational development. I learn fast and am highly agile, always motivated by rapid change and challenge. I like to use both sides of my brain. I'm a creative type who understands the necessity and value of research and detail. I prefer diverse, open-minded, relatively casual environments that are serious about delivering value. I have 'volunteered' inside GSK the last few years as an inclusion leader. Below is a summary of that work. 2014 - 2019: Leader in GSK's LGBT+ employee resource group, Spectrum Starting in 2014, I have been part of the UK and Global Leadership of our LGBT+ employee network, acting as the UK Lead 2016-2017. Under my leadership, GSK first appeared in the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index Top 100 as #21. In 2017, I was recognised as a FT OUTstanding LGBT Future Leader as #33 on that year's list and again in 2019 as #24. Inside GSK, I act as a mentor to emerging LGBT+ leaders globally. 2017 - present: I helped found and am now one of the Operations Co-Leads for the Proud Science Alliance, a 'network of networks', bringing together LGBT+ employee networks from science and health-care based companies to do more together to improve LGBT+ inclusion in our industry. 2017-2018: I served as member of GSK's Global LGBT+ Council representing our LGBT+ employee network. 2013-2015: I was a member of the Pharma R&D Inclusion Council, providing direct support to the Council chair. I worked on various projects and work streams, focused on making our Pharma R&D organisation more inclusive.

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  Paulina Herrmann

  Associate - Foodservice Consultant & Co-Chair of Building Pride - JLL's LGBT+ Network
  JLL

  Paulina’s background is in the tourism and hospitality industry following a degree in international hospitality management and tourism. Her experience began in the Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, Australia, where she trained through all F&B departments. After that, Paulina spend 2 years at sea aboard cruise ships, assisting the Cruise Director in a Guest Management role, managing the on-board guest experience. Paulina is a specialist foodservice consultant and works across industries on shopping centre foodservice, transport hub, master planning as well as business and industry. She also co-authors the JLL Foodservice Trends, an annual publication looking at global foodservice innovation & trends. In addition to overseeing projects and research publications, Paulina plays an active role in JLL’s Building a Better Tomorrow team in her role with a focus on sustainability, both in terms of foodservice, but also by leading JLL's LGBT+ Network " Building Pride" for the past 2 years.

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  Marcus Frysol

  Managing Director
  Macquarie Group Limited

  Marcus' financial services career spans over 15 years with expertise founded in capital markets, and heads Macquarie's Market Operations in EMEA. Shortly after joining Macquarie in 2015, Marcus signed up as a Pride ally and a member of the Pride Steering Committee. As an active and visible champion of diversity, Marcus designed and implemented Macquarie's reverse mentoring programme to educate leaders and people managers on LGBT diversity issues and subsequently extended the programme to Macquarie's Senior Executives.

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  Jack Murray

  Talent & Development Lead
  Budweiser Brewing Group UK&I

  I'm passionate about inclusion in the workplace and how we can better develop our LGBT+ agenda in particular. Happy to share my experiences of being openly LGBT+ in the workplace, developing an integrated D&I agenda and working with our PROUD business resource group.

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  Annie Newman

  Senior digital content editor
  GSK

  Being able to make a difference to LGBT+ inclusion in the health & life sciences sector is of upmost importance to me. Having grown up identifying as gay, I like many in the LGBT community have had to deal with the challenges that that can bring but as an adult I am out and proud and passionate about doing what I can to help others. As the first female lead of GSK’s award-winning LGBT+ employee network group Spectrum, I feel privileged to be able to influence GSK’s LGBT+ agenda and to be in a position to support and be the voice for those within the organisation. During my involvement with Spectrum we have grown from strength to strength and I believe one of my biggest contributions to be enabling the community to connect better than ever before. I also see that through my day job as Senior digital content editor for GSK's internal and external corporate channels, I have been able to utilise my passion for bringing to life the diversity of employees across the company. As Engagement lead for the Proud Science Alliance, a ground-breaking cross-company collaboration. I'm responsible for engagement across our member communities. To bring such a large and diverse group of LGBT+ employee groups together with one mission takes a robust strategy and great story-telling. It’s an honour to bring their stories to life and also to work across the organisations to ensure best practice is shared. Over the past few years I have placed 9th in the 2019 OUTstanding LGBT+ Role Model list, LGBT+ future leader category and was a finalist in DIVA's Rainbow Honours LGBT Champion category.

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  Neil Reavey

  Associate Director, Research Assurance | Global Inclusion & Diversity Council
  AstraZeneca

  Neil is Associate Director of Research Assurance for AstraZeneca at their headquarters in Cambridge UK. He started out his career as a Junior Research Technician, progressing to the role of Senior Scientist, before switching direction to focus on Research Ethics, whilst working for AstraZeneca in the US. He is a graduate of Business Management and holds a MSc in Organisational Change & Strategy, both of which underpin a keen interest in organisational psychology and culture. A diverse perspective has helped him shape the dialogue about ethics and transparency in research, and he has led global programs that promote and celebrate sustainable innovation. For more than 15 years Neil has been driving the Inclusion and Diversity conversation in the workplace, and co-founded AstraZeneca's LGBTQ+ Employee Network AZPride. In addition, Neil is the External Insights lead on the AstraZeneca Global Inclusion and Diversity Council, chaired by CEO Pascal Soriot. Outside of work, he is on the board of trustees for Cambridge LGBTQ+ youth charity The Kite Trust, and Co-Chairs the Proud Science Alliance, a global cross-sector initiative to further LGBTQ+ inclusion in life-science and healthcare.

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  David Weston

  Associate Director of Emerging Innovations | Global Inclusion Council
  AstraZeneca

  David is Associate Director of Emerging Innovations in AstraZeneca’s Biopharmaceutical Unit, where he is responsible for driving entrepreneurial activities and identifying game-changing technologies for use across R&D. A neuroscientist by training, David holds a PhD in Molecular Neuroscience from the University of Cambridge, where he investigated the structure and function of ligand-gated ion channels in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms. Prior to joining AZ, David was a strategy consultant for PwC’s Strategy& where he advised Life Sciences companies and public organisations on topics related to R&D strategy, M&A, pricing and market access, and growth strategy. David maintains an active network in Cambridge, London and beyond and interacts with numerous start-ups, particularly within the digital health space. David is passionate about Inclusion and Diversity and is part of AstraZeneca's corporate-wide Inclusion Council. David also co-chairs AstraZeneca's LGBTQIA+ Employee Resource Group AZPride.

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  Spyros Diakakis

  Project and Change Manager
  AstraZeneca

  Spyros is a Project and Change Manager in AstraZeneca’s Global Operations function, where he is responsible for leading technical change projects and programmes to implement product security and traceability legislations to secure supply chains and protect patients from counterfeit medicines. Spyros co-founded AZPride UK, AstraZeneca’s LGBTQIA+ Employee Resource Group and co-chaired the group between 2016 and 2019. He is an advocate for inclusion and diversity in the workplace and leads initiatives to empower his LGBTQIA+ colleagues to reach their full potential. Connect with Spyros on linkedin.com/in/spyrosdiakakis

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  Paul J. Reed

  Chairman
  myGwork

  Paul spent his whole career in BP in a variety of posts predominantly in supply, trading and business development. He worked in 6 countries in 3 continents, and among his roles he was a crude and oil products trader, ran the Mergers and Acquisitions department, was head of Strategy for the Refining and Marketing business, and for seven years was the Chief Executive of BP’s International Trading division of 4000 staff in 40 offices worldwide, responsible for all trading globally of oil, gas and foreign exchange for BP. He was active at different stages on the group chief executive’s diversity council, and was executive sponsor of BP’s LGBT and of their Ethnicity employee networks. He was for three years named in the top ten of the Financial Times Outstanding in Business LGBT leaders and today works as a non-executive Director of four international companies and is also Chairman of myGwork.

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  Lisa Moore

  SVP, The People Team
  Verizon Media

  Lisa leads Verizon Media’s People Operations and HR Business Partner teams globally. That's a team of 75 team members in 10 countries. She and her HRBP team are strategic talent partners to business leaders. They bringing that voice and the business’ requirements to program owners in the HR Centres of Excellence to ensure delivery of targeted and tailored programs which propel the business forward. Through the shared service and operations teams Lisa strives to create and continuously improve friction-free processes and delivery, striking a balance between streamlined automation and human touch. Lisa spent 15 years in various HR Business Partner roles before moving from London to New York with AOL in 2017 to take up her current role upon the creation of Oath (merger of Yahoo! and AOL). Her scope has included global HRBPs, global shared services teams, operations, HRIS tools & technology, Employee Relations, Contingent Workforce and the Program Management Office. Lisa studied Modern Languages (French, German and Spanish) at The University of Sheffield in the UK before embarking on a career in HR. She has worked in various global companies across multiple sectors from professional services to media and tech. She also ran a small start up and her own independent HR consultancy whilst on her second maternity leave. Lisa has lived and worked in the UK, Spain, France, Italy, Japan and now the US. Lisa is a Board Member at HMI: the Hetrick Martin Institute, the largest and longest-standing organisation in the US founded on the belief that all young people, regardless of sexual identity and orientation deserve a safe and supportive environment in which to achieve their full potential. She is executive sponsor of the PRISM ERG, Verizon Media’s employee resource group for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies. When she is not at work, she hangs out with her 2 teenage kids, walks her dog Captain, spends whole days in thrift stores and listens to all kinds of music. She ran the New York marathon in 2018 (her 3rd).

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  Tamara Box

  Managing Partner, EME
  Reed Smith LLP UK

  I am the Managing Partner for Europe & the Middle East of top 20 international law firm Reed Smith LLP, a member of the firm’s Senior Management Team and its global board, as well as a market leading finance lawyer. In 2019, I was ranked 30th in the Global Yahoo Finance HERoes Women Role Model List and shortlisted for Woman in Law at the British Legal Awards. In 2018, I was Highly Commended as Woman Lawyer of the Year by the Law Society of England & Wales and ranked 15th in the Financial Times & HERoes 100 Champions of Women in Business list. I also ranked 9th in the Financial Times & HERoes 50 Champions of Women in Business list in 2017. I was named the Champion of Rising Stars (Mentor) in the We Are the City Rising Star Awards in 2016 and also won the Mentor of the Year at the Women of the Future awards in 2016. I’ve been named a Top 30 Inspirational Woman and Champion of Diversity by Brummel Magazine. I am a founding member of the Steering Committee of the 30% Club, on the board of Companions for the Chartered Management Institute and sit on the Advisory Board of charity Theirworld. Finally, I am a member of the Court of Governors of the London School of Economics and sit on the school’s audit committee.

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  Moriaki Kida

  Regional Chief Operating Officer
  EY Japan

  Joined the audit practice in New York, NY in 1996 and became an audit partner in July 2007 in San Jose, CA. Served as an audit partner in sectors such as Technology, Diversified Industrial Products, Consumer Products and Energy. Spent 3 years in London as part of Global Professional Practice. Global Capital Markets groups, responsible for global assurance policies, consulted on foreign private issuer (SEC registrant) teams, Audit Quality Reviews, Litigation Support and gave audit and accounting trainings. Based in New York, was the Americas Area Director of Japanese Business Services (JBS) from 2013 to 2016, the largest Japanese Business Service practice Area in our global organization Moved to Tokyo in 2016 to become the Japan Area Deputy Area Managing Partner Founding member of LBGT ERG “Unity” in Japan and was a member of the steering committee bEYond (LGBT ERG) based in the US during the first half of 2000s. Financial Times Top 100 LGBT+ Executives in 2017 and 2019.

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  Samantha des Forges

  Director of Assurance
  Ministry of Defence

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  Hannah Grove

  Chief Marketing Officer
  State Street

  Hannah leads teams at State Street focused on strategy, client onboarding, brand, media relations, content marketing, digital and client experience. She is a member of the Company’s Management Committee, its senior-most strategy and policy-making team. Hannah supports State Street’s revenue growth and client acquisition and retention, and serves to positively influence all constituencies’ understanding of the company. She also serves as executive sponsor for State Street Pride, the company’s LGBTQ employee network, and its Asian Professional Alliance; as a founder of “Leading Women,” a mentoring program for senior women across the company; as an advisory board member for the Company’s Professional Women’s Network; as a member of the company’s Executive Talent and Client Committees, and its Conduct Standards Committee; and serves on the Board of State Street Hangzhou, its operations in mainland China. Prior to joining State Street in 1998, Hannah was marketing director for the Money Matters Institute, an initiative supported by the United Nations, the World Bank and private sector companies to foster sustainable development in emerging economies. Earlier in her career Hannah owned and operated a public relations firm in London. She moved to the US as communications director of the World Economic Development Congress in Washington, DC. Hannah has been named to American Banker’s annual list of “Most Powerful Women in Banking” 2017, 2018 and 2019; to OUTstanding’s list of top LGBTQ allies for the past four years; and for the past three years to the HERoes Champions of Women in Business list of female role models helping to increase gender diversity. Hannah currently serves as a board member of Project Bread, which focuses on eradicating hunger in Massachusetts, and as a member of the fund board for the Boston Public Library. She previously served as the president of the board of directors for the Women’s Lunch Place, a daytime community in Boston for disadvantaged women. LinkedIn Profile ; Twitter: @HannahGrove9

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  Jacqui Gavin

  Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Adviser
  Cambridgeshire Fire & Rescue Service

  I’m a diversity professional with experience working in Central Government and at local level

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  Matthew Beard

  Executive Director
  All Out

  Matt Beard is the Executive Director at All Out, a global LGBT+ human rights group, partnering with frontline organisations to work towards a world in which nobody has to sacrifice their family, freedom, safety or dignity because of who they are or who they love. Prior to starting at All Out in 2016, Matt served as the International Director of Fundraising and Communications at Action Aid, a global anti-poverty and women's rights organisation. Before joining Action Aid, Matt worked for 10 years at Amnesty International in the UK, Australia, Germany and Canada, leading teams working on digital engagement, fundraising and communications.

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  Grace Lordan

  Director of The Inclusion Initiative at the LSE & Associate Professor in Behavioural Science
  London School of Economics

  Dr Grace Lordan is an associate professor in behavioural science at the London School of Economics. Grace is also the founding Director of The Inclusion Initiative, a research center at the London School of Economics whose aim is to improve inclusion in firms and provide proof of cost effectiveness. She is an economist by background, and her research is focused on understanding why some individuals succeed over others because of factors beyond their control. In this regard, she has expertise on the effects of bias, discrimination and technology changes. Grace has advised and given talks to large investment banks, private equity firms, hedge funds and international conferences. Grace has also led projects to advise commissioners in the UK and policy makers in the EC on the future of skills. Grace’s academic writings have been published in top international journals in economics and the broader social sciences. At the LSE Grace trains executives through her teaching on corporate behaviour and decision making and is the founding director of the MSc in behavioural science.

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  Felipe Cardenas

  CEO
  Colombian LGBT Chamber of Commerce

  Colombian Business Executive with +10 years of experience in Business Growth Strategies, co-founder & CEO of Acciones de la Frontera, advisory firm specialized in creating & calibrating Financial & Commercial Models for SMEs to grow sustainable! Co-founder & CEO as well of the Colombian LGBT Chamber of Commerce, Non for Profit; Bogota based; focused on providing economic empowerment routes to Sexually Diverse Entrepreneurs as well as advisory to Corporations on Diversity & Inclusion programs for Talent, Customers & Suppliers.

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  Abril Rodriguez

  Partner
  EY Mexico

  I am specialized in wealth planning for high net-worth individuals in Mexico; specifically, regarding the design, implementation, restructure and liquidation of offshore and domestic structures. Also, I have proposed tax efficient investment portfolios for clients. I work with binational families and I am familiar with foreign estate taxes and diverse proper structures to minimize them. I have presented in diverse local and foreign forums regarding these topics. I am also specialized in the design and implementation of international business restructures, providing tax advice on national and international transactions and in charities and not-for-profits. Beside my tax practice, in 2017 I was appointed Regional Leader of Diversity and Inclussion for the Latam North Region. Since 2017 I am a member of the Regional Board of EY. I am the Latam North representative in the Inclusiveness Advisory Council led by the Global Leader of D&I and the EY US Managing Partner.

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  Jessica Stern

  Executive Director
  OutRight ACTION INTERNATIONAL

  Jessica Stern, Executive Director of OutRight Action International, specializes in gender, sexuality and human rights globally. At OutRight, she has doubled the budget, supported the legal registration of LGBTIQ organizations globally, helped secure the mandate of the United Nations Independent Expert on Discrimination and Violence based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity, and advanced the UN LGBTI Core Group. She is frequently quoted by the media in The New York Times, The Guardian, and Time. She has provided expert opinions to governments globally and UN mechanisms, including UNWomen where she serves as a member of the LGBTI Reference Group and Women Human Rights Defenders Reference Group. Her writing has been cited by the Indian Supreme Court in its seminal judgement decriminalizing homosexuality (Navtej Singh Johar versus the Union of India) and featured in a new chapter in The Oxford Handbook of Women, Peace and Security (2019). She is an adjunct associate professor at Columbia University.

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  Belton Flournoy

  Director
  Protiviti

  In addition to being a Director in Protiviti’s Technology & Digital consulting practice, Belton is a Head of Pride in the City for Pride in London where he runs a Mayor backed initiative dedicated to increasing diversity and inclusivity across London businesses. He has over a decade of experience supporting clients with deploying strategic solutions across some of the world’s leading financial services institutions, while maintaining a strong passion for ensuring diversity and inclusivity remain high on organisations business agenda. He has experience delivering Cyber Security, Customer Experience, Identity & Access Management (IAM), Spreadsheet Risk and Compliance/Regulatory Risk programs across Europe. He has managed global teams across large organisations, as well as supporting small and medium-sized organisations to implement fit-for-purpose solutions. He is extremely passionate about intersectionality, where he believes it is each person’s role to support other groups who are in the minority – “after all, we don’t want to preach to the converted, we want to educate and inspire people to be more aware and inclusive.” Belton is founder of Protiviti UK's LGBT+ group, which won best LGBT+ network in 2019 by the Inclusive Tech Alliance, and in 2020 he was shortlisted as a 'Top 10 Inspirational Leader' by the British LGBT+ awards.

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  Antonia Belcher

  Director
  MHBCCumming

  Antonia has 40 plus years’ experience in the construction and property industries and leads her own business that she formed in 2007. Transitioning in 2000/2003 in a very male dominated working environment, where there was no history or visible LGBT influences to draw on, she presses for positive change for LGBT+ good in all business spheres, but especially in her chosen career path of Surveying. A Board Director of the Chartered Surveyors Training Trust, Diversity Role Models, Terrence Higgins Trust, and a Liveryman of The Worshipful Company of Chartered Surveyors, and advisor to other organisations she particularly seeks equal opportunities for Women/LGBT+ within the Construction Industry, which has of course been a side of business generally slow to react to such. She was shortlisted in 2017 for the Gay Times ‘Success in Entrepreneurship’ Gary Frisch award and in 2018 nominated in the NatWest British LGBT Awards – Inspiration Leader category, and nominated amongst a group of “exceptional surveyors from The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)” to celebrate their 150th Anniversary, showcasing significant and positive impact that surveyors have made to society through those 150 years.

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  Tim Bardell

  Vice President, Head of Consulting
  NTT DATA UK

  As the Head of Impact for NTT DATA UK, I lead our design, technology, data and business consultancy practices, guiding organisations through transformation and change to deliver business value. During my career I have worked in multiple industries including telecoms, pharmaceuticals, FMCG and management consultancy with roles in engineering, production management, consulting, IT management, business operations and sales. I have switched between industry and consulting twice, relishing the different challenges and opportunities that each bring. I’m driven by the opportunity to make lasting change happen for our clients, their teams, their customers and the society in which we live. As such, I believe that putting people at the heart of business transformation is the key to success. This includes creating a working culture at NTT DATA that allows our own consultants to thrive. Here at NTT DATA UK we need to attract, grow and retain the best talent. As an employer we therefore need to be a safe, inclusive and diverse workplace that excludes no one and enables everyone to bring their whole, authentic self to work. As a huge advocate for fairness, equality and opportunity for all; I’m an active member of NTT DATA UK’s Diversity & Inclusion steering committee and proud to be both the sponsor of our LGBT+ Forum and head of our Allies Network.

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  Jane Hill

  Journalist & broadcaster
  BBC

  I wrote this profile in early 2020 - world events have since taken over. But I leave it here, in a spirit of optimism: I'm in remission from breast cancer so am trying to rebalance life - spending a little less time in the newsroom and more with the charities and causes I support; plus enjoying the things that are important to me: friends, theatre, cinema, art - and Couch to 5K! At work: I'm generally found on the BBC News at One, as well as the Six & Ten and the News Channel; I particularly love my weekly chat with Mark Kermode on The Film Review. Outside work: personal experience led to my work in the field of diversity & inclusion. For 15 years I've been involved with organisations that highlight the value and importance of inclusion & role modelling. I'm proud to work with, ia, Diversity Role Models and The Albert Kennedy Trust; I've mentored young journalists; and host conferences and projects that help women & girls, and members of all minority groups, attain their potential. I also support health charities that are close to my heart: Parkinson's UK, Breast Cancer Now and Cancer Research UK. I live in London with my wife Sara and our border collie. I’m a Fellow of the British American Project and sit on its Advisory Board, and am an Honorary Fellow of Queen Mary, University of London.

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  Deon Pillay

  Head of Marketing Operations
  LGIM, Founding member & Co-Chair at InterInvest

  Deon is the Head of Marketing Operations, Legal and General Investment Management in London and also the Chair of the firm’s L&GBT+Allies network. Outside of the office, he is the Co-chair of InterInvest, a network of investment professionals, that drives LGBT+ equality across the investment management industry. Since arriving in London from his home town in South Africa, Deon started his career in financial services at a private wealth management company in client services before joining LGIM in 2010. Deon is passionate about people, a mentor to others, a life coach and an NLP practitioner who is passionate about personal development. Deon has several notable achievements for his contributions to diversity and inclusion. He is a keynote speaker, sharing his personal experiences to surface LGBT+ issues, a panellist championing diversity and inclusion, committee member of the Diversity Project’s LGBT+ stream and a supporter of Queer Britain. In 2019, Deon was recognised as an LGBT+ Future Leader in the OUTstanding list and also featured in Empower’s Top 50 Ethnic Minority Future Leaders list. He has also been a supporter of LGBT Great since inception and was the recipient of the inaugural role models award. Being a passionate believer in equality, diversity and inclusion, Deon believes strongly in the power of visible role models and allies and has encouraged others to feature in LGBT Great’s Project 1000. Overall, Deon believes that we all have a key role to play in driving this change and through fostering a culture of inclusion and diversity we can make a difference.

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  Shelley Roth, M.Ed (they/them)

  Making a Difference
  Springboard Training

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