Across CloserStill's offices, there are colleagues who may never work on the same team, in the same country or even in the same time zone. Yet through the Pride Network, many have found friendship, support and a sense of belonging.

Bringing together LGBTQ+ colleagues and allies from across the business, the network creates space for connection, conversation and collaboration throughout the year. Members meet regularly to share ideas, organise initiatives, support one another and help shape a workplace where people feel comfortable being themselves.

This Pride Month, three colleagues share what Pride means to them, why inclusion in the workplace matters, and their hopes for the future of the network.

Olivia: What does Pride month mean to you?

Rakim: Pride is something that should be celebrated every day. The values it represents do not begin and end in June. That said, Pride Month helps shine a spotlight on the challenges LGBTQ+ people still face around the world. It gives communities, organisations and governments an opportunity to show their support, helping people feel seen, included and less alone. It is also a time to uplift voices, create space for people to be heard, and recognise the progress still needed.

Katja: It's about collective queer joy - showing that we're here and always will be. It's also about resisting oppression, continuing to fight back, and especially at the moment, uplifting trans voices within the LGBTQ+ community. 

Kishan: Pride is about creating spaces where everyone feels comfortable being themselves and knows they are valued for who they are. It's about recognising the progress that's been made for the community while also reflecting on what still needs to be done.

Olivia: How has being part of the Pride Network impacted your experience at CloserStill?

Rakim: Earlier in my career, I didn't always feel able to be myself, so being part of a supportive community has been incredibly valuable. More than anything though, it's rewarding to see other colleagues feel increasingly comfortable in bringing their authentic selves to work.

Katja: After working fully remotely, it's given me a greater sense of connection and friendship both online and in person, especially meeting people from other offices who share similar experiences and passions. 

Kishan: It's connected me with colleagues I may not have met otherwise and I love being part of the conversations that celebrate diversity and drive positive change across the business.

Olivia: What makes a workplace feel genuinely inclusive, rather than just supportive on paper?

Rakim: It's reflected in the way people communicate, the training that's provided and, most importantly, how the business responds when challenges arise. Knowing the company will support its people and uphold its values creates a culture where everyone feels respected.

Katja: Genuine inclusion is about seeing people like yourself represented. Being able to openly talk about my sexuality and my relationship, while seeing colleagues genuinely support initiatives like Pride Month, makes a workplace feel truly inclusive. 

Kishan: Inclusion is reflected in everyday actions, leadership behaviours, and the culture we create together. When people feel safe to express their ideas, perspectives, and identities without fear of judgement, that's when true inclusion happens.

Olivia: How can colleagues support the Pride Network and the LGBTQ+ community at work?

Rakim: Allyship doesn't have to be complicated. Being mindful of how we communicate, using inclusive language and creating an environment where people feel comfortable being themselves and asking for support can make a real difference.

Katja: While it's important to create spaces for LGBTQ+ people, inclusion shouldn't rely solely on those within the community doing all the work. Just showing that you're there makes other people feel safer - whether it's sharing resources, or simply volunteering your time, raising your hand says a lot. 

Kishan: Check in with your colleagues and show up for one another. If you see or hear something that doesn't feel right, don't be afraid to speak up. Sometimes it's as simple as sending a message, offering support or letting someone know they're not alone.

Olivia: What are your hopes for the future of the Pride Network?

Rakim: I'd love to see our Pride Network join forces with other organisations across the events industry. By bringing together like-minded colleagues and industry partners, we could create larger initiatives, share ideas and make an even greater impact. 

Katja: In my wildest dreams, we'd bring CloserStill's entire Pride Network together for a retreat. Meeting everyone in person and spending time together would be so special after building relationships across different offices and countries.

Kishan: I hope the Pride Network continues to grow and bring more people into the conversation. Empowering colleagues, supporting each other and creating opportunities for connection will help us keep building a workplace where everyone feels they belong. 

Olivia: What message would you like to share with colleagues this Pride Month?

Rakim: Always be authentic, respectful and inclusive. You never know what experiences or challenges someone may be facing, so a little understanding and just being mindful can go a long way.

Katja: I'd encourage colleagues to seek out and uplift voices from across the LGBTQ+ community. Taking the time to listen, learn and engage with different perspectives, whether through books, films or conversations, is a simple but meaningful way to show support.

Kishan: Whether you're part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, small actions can make a big difference. Let's continue supporting one another and creating a workplace where everyone feels welcome, valued and able to thrive.