John Ryan - Workplace Pride

Tech@Workplace Pride organise company visit to discuss “Out@Work”

20 October 2023

John Ryan

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Categories: Members Exchange, news, News, Tech@WorkplacePride, Uncategorised, Workplace Pride Communities

On the 19th of September, Workplace Pride members were cordially invited to partake in a company visit to Eaton in Hengelo. Strategically coinciding with Coming Out Day on October 11th, the visit brought together participants from diverse tech companies for a deep discussion on the theme “Out@Work.”

Exploring Company Visits

The Tech@Workplace Pride community, as outlined in their 2023 strategic goals, has set a range of objectives. Notably, one of these objectives is to orchestrate visits to LGBTIQ+ communities within tech companies. The aim is to engage in fruitful conversations about the most effective Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) practices, while also incorporating an online participation dimension. Through these visits, Tech@Workplace Pride aspires to enhance visibility, shedding light on the remarkable diversity and inclusivity within the tech sector.

Connecting with Operational Staff

Initial steps towards achieving these goals were taken during the Workplace Pride conference on May 26th of this year. A follow-up initiative was launched during a member exchange session, seeking to bridge the gap in LGBTIQ+ inclusion between operational and office staff. The recent visit to Eaton facilitated fresh insights into efforts to align LGBTIQ+ activities with the production floor.

Journey Through the Production Floor

The visit began with an insightful “We Make PRIDE Work” introduction led by Eugén Ranft, Managing Director at Eaton Industries Netherlands B.V., and Barış Ekici, EMEA leader of the Eaton PRIDE iERG. Participants, dressed in safety gear, were divided into two groups to explore the production floor, gaining valuable insights into Eaton’s products and their dedicated creators.

Interactive Workshop: The visit culminated in an engaging workshop led by Marco Strijks, Liaison Office Diversity & Inclusion from Th!nk with PRIDE/Saxion University of Applied Sciences, and Renan Machado Cardoso, Global Inclusion and Diversity Project Lead at Eaton. The discussion revolved around three pivotal statements, seeking innovative solutions to pertinent challenges.

In Closing

“Out@Work”, organised by Tech@Workplace Pride, stood as a testament to the community’s unwavering commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion within the tech sector.

About Eaton: Eaton, an intelligent power management company, is devoted to enhancing the quality of life and safeguarding the environment worldwide.

Kigali Roundtable Advances LGBTIQ+ Socio-Economic Inclusion

19 October 2023

John Ryan

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Categories: Free to Be Me, News, news, Uncategorised

Workplace Pride Partners with Dutch Embassy in Rwanda and Hivos to Drive Progress

This week, as part of the Free to Be Me Program, Workplace Pride, in collaboration with the Dutch Embassy in Rwanda and Hivos, convened the Kigali Socio-Economic Roundtable Discussion. This significant event brought together over 30 community members, diplomatic missions, and business representatives with the aim of raising awareness regarding socio-economic inclusion for the LGBTIQ+ community, initiating crucial conversations, and fostering commitment for future dialogues.

Download Kigali Roundtable Report

“Economic development programs are not reaching LGBTIQ+ people adequately or equitably. In our workplaces, creating an environment where everyone can be themselves is essential and should be the standard for modern businesses.”
Dutch Ambassador in Kigali, Joan Wiegman

During the roundtable held at the residence of the Dutch Ambassador in Kigali, Joan Wiegman, she emphasised the imperative need for an environment in workplaces where everyone can authentically be themselves, asserting that this should be the benchmark for modern businesses. Ambassador Wiegman stated, “Economic development programs must adequately and equitably encompass the LGBTIQ+ community.”

Key insights from the discussions include:

The demand for increased investments and resources to propel economic inclusion for the LGBTIQ+ community.
The recognition that more efforts are necessary to heighten awareness and transform narratives, positioning the LGBTIQ+ community as vital contributors to inclusive economic growth.
Emphasis on the significance of not only having inclusive policies but ensuring their active implementation to achieve comprehensive inclusion.

Dutch Ambassador in Kigali, Joan Wiegman with Levis Maina, Global Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at PATH

As Workplace Pride, we take immense pride in the resilience demonstrated by the Rwandan LGBTIQ+ community and remain steadfast in our commitment to drive inclusion, paving the way for socio-economic development opportunities for the LGBTIQ+ community both locally, in Africa, and across Asia.

#Hivos, #EmbassyoftheKingdomoftheNetherlandsinRwanda, #IrisVanNoord, #MarloesVanFulpen, #LevisNderitu, #AlvinAmbunya, #GrahamSparks, #AnneJellema, #SaidaAli

Workplace Pride Announces 2023 Impact Awards Nomination Shortlist

11 October 2023

John Ryan

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Categories: Event, Impact Awards, news, News, Uncategorised

Date:October 11, 2023

Amsterdam, Netherlands – On this significant National Coming Out Day, Workplace Pride takes immense pleasure in unveiling the much-anticipated shortlist for the 2023 Impact Awards. These awards are a testament to the remarkable achievements of individuals and organisations who have gone above and beyond to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

View Shortlist Nominations

A Night of Celebration

The pinnacle of this year’s journey will be the Impact Awards Gala, hosted at the prestigious Het Scheepvaartmuseum in Amsterdam on Friday, November 3rd, 2023. It will be a night of celebration, recognising those who have shown unwavering commitment to creating more inclusive workplaces.

Exceptional Finalists

This year’s shortlist includes outstanding nominees in various categories, reflecting the dedication and hard work invested in advancing diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Here’s a glimpse of the exceptional finalists:

LGBTIQ+ 2023 Network Award

This prestigious award honours the Workplace Pride member LGBTIQ+ network that has demonstrated outstanding engagement within their organisation and the broader community over the past year. The nominees for this category are:

– PwC

– Accenture

– Shell

These networks embody unity, collaboration, and impactful engagement, setting a benchmark for others to follow.

LGBTIQ+ 2023 Volunteer Award

The Volunteer Award celebrates individuals from Workplace Pride member organisations who have gone above and beyond to foster LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion. The nominees for this category are:

– Mike van de Langenberg (They/Them) – Van Lanschot Kempen

– Kaneesha Nadal (They/Them) – Kite Pharma EU BV

– Razvan Bran(He/Him) – Lenovo

These remarkable volunteers have made a meaningful difference in the lives of many through their dedication to inclusivity.

LGBTIQ+ 2023 Media Outreach Award

This award acknowledges the power of positive representation in the media. It celebrates Workplace Pride members who have effectively highlighted LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion through media channels. The nominees for this category are:

– Can you see me campaign – Deloitte

– Shell India Mobility – Shell

– Pride matters. Every Day – ING

These nominees have played a crucial role in shaping informed perspectives on LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion.

LGBTIQ+ 2023 Ally Award

The Ally Award recognises individuals who have demonstrated unwavering support for inclusivity and understanding, both within their organisation and externally. The nominees for this category are:

– Vandana Verma – SLB

– Marijke Loonen – FrieslandCampina

– Terhi Kivinen (She /Her) – Kemira

These exceptional allies have shown extraordinary dedication to the cause of inclusivity.

LGBTIQ+ 2023 Role Model Award

This award honours individuals who lead by example and inspire positive change, contributing to the creation of more LGBTIQ+ inclusive workplaces. The nominees for this category are:

– Janet Visbeen (She /Her) – PwC

– Sharron Cairns (She/Her) – Nike

– Yasmin Reis – Shell Brazil

These role models are trailblazers who set a path for others to follow, demonstrating the power of leadership in fostering inclusivity.

LGBTIQ+ 2023 Members’ Choice – Game Changer Award

This distinguished award recognizes initiatives among Workplace Pride members that ignite societal impact for the LGBTIQ+ community. It celebrates projects or efforts that have the potential to move and activate people, leaving a lasting positive imprint.

The full list of nominations and more information about the Workplace Pride Impact Awards can be found here.

As we eagerly await the results and the grand celebration at the Impact Awards Gala, Workplace Pride applauds these remarkable individuals and organisations for their exceptional contributions towards a more inclusive and diverse workplace. Their dedication is an inspiration to all, and it reinforces the importance of diversity and inclusion in our society.

Challenges Persist: Bisexual Inclusion in the Workplace Still an Uphill Battle

23 September 2023

John Ryan

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Categories: Uncategorised

Date: September 23, 2023

In the ongoing struggle for workplace inclusivity, the hurdles faced by the bisexual community remain a persistent challenge despite significant advancements in LGBTIQ+ rights and equality measures over the past fifteen years.

In an effort to foster inclusivity, hundreds of major corporations have made substantial strides by implementing a range of policies, benefits, and practices geared towards advancing LGBTIQ+ rights in the workplace. These initiatives have included the widespread adoption of non-discrimination protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity, the introduction of partner benefits, the establishment of employee resource groups, support for supplier diversity, and active involvement in public policy efforts aimed at advancing LGBTIQ+ rights.

Nevertheless, bisexual visibility and inclusion continue to be areas where many workplaces fall short. While LGBTIQ+ inclusive policies and practices are undeniably pivotal in levelling the playing field within organisations, they alone do not necessarily translate into a shift in organisational culture. Recent research conducted by the HRC Foundation highlights this ongoing struggle. Their studies on the daily experiences of LGBTIQ+ individuals in the workplace consistently reveal significant disparities for bisexual-identified workers across various regions, industries, and age groups.

The persistence of these challenges underscores the pressing need for a more comprehensive approach to LGBTIQ+ inclusivity in the workforce. While legislative protections and corporate policies provide a crucial foundation, fostering a truly inclusive culture necessitates continued efforts to address biases, stereotypes, and stigmas that persist within workplaces. Only through concerted, ongoing efforts can workplaces create an environment where every individual, regardless of their sexual orientation, feels fully seen, respected, and valued.

In a recent event organised by Bi+ Netherlands network, held at ProRail on August 3rd, a glimmer of hope emerged. Iris Buizer and Prof. Dr. Jojanneke van der Toorn, who holds the position of Professor of LGBTIQ+ Workplace Inclusion at Leiden University, had the privilege of presenting preliminary findings from their research on the workplace inclusion of bi+ individuals in the Netherlands. This event provided an opportunity for insightful discussions and an exchange of ideas on how to address the challenges faced by the bi+ community in the workplace.

Prof. Dr. Jojanneke van der Toorn, who also shared insights into the Netherlands InclusivityMonitor, showcased her commitment to advancing LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion. Her presence at the event, supported by the Bi+ Netherlands network, underlines the importance of academic expertise in driving progress in the field of workplace inclusivity. The event served as a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences and marked another step toward achieving greater workplace equality for all.

Workplace Pride extends its sincere appreciation to Prof. Dr. Jojanneke van der Toorn, who serves as their Professor of LGBTIQ+ Workplace Inclusion at Leiden University. Her valuable contributions to the ongoing efforts in promoting LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusivity are greatly acknowledged. As conversations continue and initiatives like these gain traction, there is optimism for a future where bisexual visibility and inclusion in the workplace become standard practices, ensuring that everyone can excel in their professional lives, regardless of their sexual orientation.

Opinion Piece: LBTQ+ rights, higher priority please

25 August 2023

John Ryan

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Categories: News, women@workplacepride, Workplace Pride Communities

By Myrtille Danse, Head of Corporate Engagement at Solidaridad Europe
and member of the Women@Workplace Pride core group

It’s pride month! A time to commemorate the struggle for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer civil rights and a chance to celebrate everything our community has accomplished. While attending last month’s Pride Walk in Amsterdam, I wondered about the LBTQ+ movement in and outside the Netherlands. It seems quite invisible

LBTQ+ have fallen through the cracks

And that’s surprising considering that global discrimination and violence against LBTQ+ have “fallen through the cracks”, according to the report “That’s why we became activists” published by the international NGO Human Rights Watch (HRW) early 2023. This report is based on interviews conducted in 26 countries. It reveals a pattern of grave physical and sexual violence from security forces, family members and private individuals against lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer (LBTQ+) people worldwide. The report identifies ten key areas of rights abuses, such as land and property rights, fertility services, migration and resettlement. The lack of legal protection and the alleged “invisibility” of LBTQ+ women, transgender women and non-binary people in national and international law are barriers to their ability to access justice.

LBTQ+ rights in the workplace

One of these key areas also includes rampant discrimination in the workplace. Violence against queer women, transgender women and non-binary people who presented as masculine was often mentioned by interviewees. Activists said masculine-presenting LBTQ+ people faced a lifetime of economic marginalisation, discrimination and harassment at work and psychological abuse. In Argentina, El Salvador and Kyrgyzstan, masculine-presenting LBTQ+ people are often forced into precarious work with poor labour rights practices (farms, the sex trade, auto shops) or male-dominated fields, where they face physical and sexual abuse.

In the Netherlands we maybe do not experience such extreme cases of discrimination, but research of Corporate Queer (https://corporatequeer.com/) reveals that management teams or a boards of executives without queer representation face challenges to create a company culture for a diverse team. Also the lack of policies in the workplace create challenges, such as working around the lack of a multiparent law. And what does the internal team look like on your website, is the company staff diverse? Does a minority person feel represented when viewing the company? And who can save for a good retirement if they both make two-thirds of what men at their company do?

Call for action on LBTQ+ rights
LBTQ+ discrimination becomes highly visible in these researches. But why don’t we hear more about it in the news, and during pride month? The invisibility of LBTQ+ rights is mainly the result of deprioritisation and systematic ignoring in a range of different streams of reporting. It’s the result of the (un)intentional devaluation of women’s issues, including in queer spaces, and normalises the primacy placed on cisgender men as the “natural” subject of rights, research, and investigation. For this reason, I urge to stop referring to the invisibility of LBTQ+ rights, to avoid that it is being treated as a naturally occurring phenomenon and as such erodes the responsibility of researchers, advocates, and funders to recognise and seek to address the systemic nature of discrimination and violence against LBTQ+ people. And I call for more attention for LBTQ+ rights in pride month, research, and advocacy agendas.

Workplace Pride Collaborates with RVO and Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Inspirational “Stories from the Heart” Event

16 August 2023

John Ryan

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Categories: Member, News, Stories From The Heart, Workplace Pride Communities

Amsterdam, August 4th 2023 — Workplace Pride partnered with the Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland (RVO) and the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs to present the enlightening event, “Stories from the Heart.” This event brought together trailblazing LGBTIQ+ activists hailing from diverse corners of the globe, all of whom were engaged in the RVO’s esteemed “Building Bridges” initiative. This remarkable gathering aimed to foster connection, share insights, and promote understanding within the Workplace Pride community.

The “Stories from the Heart” event served as a platform for these dedicated activists to impart their on-the-ground experiences to fellow Workplace Pride members. These passionate activists, each representing unique regions of the world, were deeply involved in the RVO’s “Building Bridges” program, which sought to establish meaningful connections and collaborations across borders.

The event’s significance lay in its ability to bring together these activists and Workplace Pride members who often had colleagues working in the same countries. By sharing their first-hand experiences, the activists provided invaluable insights into the local landscape, culture, and challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ individuals. This exchange of perspectives was poised to foster greater understanding and collaboration, enabling Workplace Pride members to approach their work and interactions with an enhanced sense of empathy and cultural awareness.

“Stories from the Heart” represented an opportunity for cross-cultural learning and appreciation, as activists and Workplace Pride members engaged in open dialogues, forged connections, and created lasting bonds. Through the power of personal narratives, this event aimed to uplift, empower, and inspire attendees to continue championing diversity and inclusion in their respective workplaces.

The “Stories from the Heart” event encapsulated the spirit of unity, collaboration, and progress, serving as a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and shared experiences. In an increasingly interconnected world, such initiatives were crucial in fostering global understanding and empathy, and Workplace Pride was proud to have been at the forefront of this meaningful endeavor.

A Rainbow Flag Alone is Not Enough: Companies Embrace Inclusive Policies for LGBTIQ+ Employees

2 August 2023

John Ryan

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Categories: Academia@WorkplacePride, Members Exchange, News

In the past, displaying a rainbow flag during Pride was seen as sufficient support for the LGBTIQ+ community within a company. However, times have changed, and the need for genuine inclusion and acceptance has become paramount. Recognising this, companies are taking proactive steps to create a welcoming environment for their LGBTIQ+ employees.

Michiel Kolman, co-chairman of Workplace Pride, experienced the lack of conscious policies for LGBTIQ+ inclusivity in workplaces decades ago. Today, Workplace Pride, based in Amsterdam but with a global reach, works to encourage companies to embrace diversity and ensure that all employees, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feel valued and at home.

Over the last 15 years, large multinationals were among the first to respond to the need for specific policies aimed at LGBTIQ+ individuals. These policies encompass a range of initiatives, including combating discrimination, implementing inclusive language, providing gender-neutral facilities, and offering confidential advisers for LGBTIQ+ employees.

However, implementing these policies is not always a smooth journey, and progress varies across industries and sectors. In the legal profession, for instance, the interests of LGBTIQ+ individuals may not always be a top priority. Chris Noordam, chairman of the FORWARD Foundation, advocates for acceptance, recognition, and visibility of LGBTIQ+ people within the legal sector.

Noordam explains that diversity and inclusivity must become the norm, just like any other facility provided for employees. FORWARD started its efforts in prominent offices, particularly in Amsterdam, and now aims to extend these policies to the rest of the UK.

Developing and implementing inclusive policies is an ongoing process that may take around ten years to complete. To gauge progress, Workplace Pride conducts an annual benchmark study to evaluate companies and government institutions on various inclusion-related points.

According to Michiel Kolman, this emphasis on inclusivity has become a crucial aspect for companies, universities, and government institutions. Participating in the benchmark study and scoring well reflects how seriously organisations view the subject of LGBTIQ+ inclusivity.

Companies that genuinely prioritise their LGBTIQ+ employees reap rewards beyond just compliance. Embracing inclusivity makes them more attractive employers, as individuals seek workplaces where they can feel genuinely seen, heard, and accepted.

As the global landscape evolves, more organisations are recognising the significance of creating a truly inclusive environment, signalling a positive shift towards a more inclusive and accepting world for everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

This text was adapted from the original piece written in Dutch by Richard Hogenkamp from https://www.intermediair.nl/emancipatie-en-diversiteit/inclusiviteit/een-regenboogvlag-maakt-je-geen-lhbti-inclusieve-werkgever

Disney Benelux Joins Workplace Pride in Celebrating Unity and Inclusion During Pride

1 August 2023

John Ryan

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Categories: Member, News, Workplace Pride Communities

Pride is a time of celebration, inclusion, and unity for the LGBTIQ+ community, and we couldn’t be prouder to have recently hosted a special visit at our Amsterdam offices from Disney Benelux, one of our Workplace Pride members!

Ester de Wit and Laura Ballyn from Disney Benelux join David Pollard from Workplace Pride at the Amsterdam office.

It was an absolute pleasure to share Workplace Pride’s approach to LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion with the fantastic and enthusiastic team at Disney. Together, we are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone feels safe, valued, and embraced for who they are.

To commemorate this special occasion and the spirit of #NeverStopCelebratingPride, we are excited to share the newest X-BERG News Video featuring Workplace Pride! We hope you enjoy watching it as much as we enjoyed making it.

Thank you, Disney Benelux, for joining us in spreading love and acceptance during Pride. Let’s continue to stand together in creating a world where diversity is celebrated, and everyone can be their authentic selves.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Gina Walker and Our Remarkable Volunteers

28 July 2023

John Ryan

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Categories: Event, News, Workplace Pride Communities

Amsterdam, 28th July 2023

As our dedicated volunteers, board, and staff gathered in Amsterdam, we celebrated a memorable BBQ evening, marking the successful culmination of our 2023 International Conference “Tracks of Change”. With hearts full of gratitude and joy, we extend our warmest appreciation to the incredible individuals who selflessly made this event an overwhelming success, especially Gina Walker, who brilliantly organised and coordinated all our volunteers.

Their enthusiasm and hard work created an unparalleled atmosphere of camaraderie and support, leaving an indelible impression on every attendee and participant. From guiding delegates to their designated sessions to ensuring smooth registration processes, our volunteers went above and beyond their roles, proving themselves to be the backbone of our international event. Their dedication allowed our guests to focus on networking, knowledge exchange, and creating lasting connections.

The BBQ evening, which brought together our board, dedicated staff, and enthusiastic volunteers, was a fitting celebration of the fruitful collaboration that unfolded during the conference.

“It is truly heartwarming to witness our volunteers’ incredible passion and commitment,” said David Pollard, Executive Director of Workplace Pride. “Their invaluable contributions have made a profound impact on the success of the conference”.

At Workplace Pride, we firmly believe that volunteers are the lifeblood of any successful endeavour, and it is through their selfless spirit we can achieve greatness. We recognise and appreciate the countless hours of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice they have poured into making this conference a memorable and enriching experience for everyone involved.

With the spirit of camaraderie and cooperation that flourished during the conference, we look forward to embarking on new endeavours and impacting our global community.

Thank you, dear volunteers, for being the driving force behind our success!

To view the pictures, please click here

Workplace Pride joins Pride Walk 2023: A Resounding Success Celebrating Love and Diversity

24 July 2023

John Ryan

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Categories: Event, News, Workplace Pride Communities

Amsterdam, July 22nd — The vibrant colours of the rainbow filled the streets of Amsterdam as the board, staff, and members of Workplace Pride took part in the Pride Walk 2023. With an overwhelming sense of unity and pride, participants from all walks of life came together to celebrate the LGBTIQ+ community in an unforgettable display of love, energy, and acceptance.

Kicking Off with Style and Spirit

The day commenced at the Workplace Pride Office on Herengracht, where participants were greeted with a warm selection of coffee, tea, and mimosas. Laughter and camaraderie filled the air as friends and colleagues reunited and connected with new faces, setting the tone for an extraordinary day ahead.

A Musical Journey with Unidos de Amsterdam

At 12:00 AM, the crowd eagerly assembled at Dam Square, eagerly anticipating the main event. The atmosphere crackled with excitement as Unidos de Amsterdam, a renowned Samba band, joined the march, infusing the surroundings with mesmerising beats that had everyone dancing, laughing, and marching in perfect harmony.

WPP C- (316) — Take a look at some of the memories from our Pride Walk 2023 or view the full gallery here!

A Celebration of Love, Acceptance, and Unity

Pride Walk was more than just a procession; it was a powerful statement of support for love, acceptance, and equality. With each step they took, the participants showcased their unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusivity, sending a resounding message of hope and empowerment to the world.

Gratitude for an Unforgettable Day

The success of the event would not have been possible without the dedication and enthusiasm of every single participant. The Workplace Pride team expressed their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the event’s triumph, from the inspiring participants to the hardworking organisers and generous supporters.

Continuing the Journey Beyond Pride

As the Pride Walk concluded, the spirit of unity and acceptance remained alive, serving as a reminder that fostering an inclusive workplace is a commitment that extends beyond a single day. Workplace Pride reaffirmed their dedication to supporting and uplifting the LGBTQ+ community every day, ensuring that the momentum generated during the Pride Walk would propel them forward in creating a more equitable and welcoming work environment.

A Pride to Remember

The Pride Walk 2023 was undeniably an unforgettable occasion, filled with joy, camaraderie, and a celebration of identities. The rainbow colours painted the city with a message of love and acceptance, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who participated.

As we bid farewell to this year’s Pride Walk, let us carry the spirit of Pride in our hearts throughout the year, championing diversity, inclusion, and equality every day.

*Thank you, once again, to all the participants, organisers, and supporters who made this event a resounding success! Together, let’s continue marching towards a future where love knows no boundaries and acceptance embraces all.*

#WorkplacePride #PrideWalk2023 #LoveIsLove #EqualityForAll #DiversityandInclusion #ProudOfWorkplace #LGBTQCommunity #PrideMarch #InclusivityMatters