Seen and heard: why queer visibility at the top matters
Tim Spoor - Chief Executive, Queerwell
Bounce back and be well: resilience, resistance & reconnection
Ebony Quow - People Partner – Revenue & Post Office
“Finding your own community and culture, embracing your identity whatever that is gives you power !!”
Liz Jacobs - Director of Global Programmes - Open for Business
LGBTQIA+ activism – Real moment of positive change throughout the last year: the economic case for LGBTQ+ inclusion in southeast Asia
2.15PM – 2.35PM
Jason Jones interviews Tris Reid-Smith the decriminalization of homosexuality in Trinidad & Tobago
2.35 – 2.45PM Debs Mills-Burns - Spoken Words Poet, Author, Trustee of PH Holt Foundation
3.00PM – 4.00PM London Eye Tour
Anna Brent & Rodney Collins – Outvertising
How to encourage businesses to be advocates for LGBTQIA+ employees
Dee Llewellyn, Chris Joell-Deshields & Rebecca Paisis – Pride in London
Volunqueer campaign
Ayla Holdom – Stonewall
Authenticity's impact on small, focused teams - Stories of a SAR pilot"
Colin Kimber – Pareto Favilities Management
Allyship and its impact & importance
Debs Mills-Burns – Spoken Words Poet, Author, Trustee of PH Holt Foundation
Jamie Love – Monumental
Social Media Algorithm — Why Diversity is a Growth Lever, Not a Checkbox
Jess Thilthorpe & John Conyers – wagamama
DIVA Magazine
Breaking down barriers for LGBTQIA+ family formation - Fertility Justice Campaign
4.00PM – 4.40PM Special guests: Jake & Hannah Graf
Prominent British transgender couple celebrated for their advocacy in LGBTQ+ rights, media representation, and family life.
4.40PM – 5.10PM Recruitment Panel hosted by StuartHills the challenges of recruitment, with L&D & DE&I playing a key part
Rachel Masing – POOLHOUSE
Gemma Hampton-Stone – Bodeans
Felipe Chavez – Pho
Arbi Rai - Virgin Atlantic
5.10PM – 5.20PM Dominic Arnall - Open for Business The Economic Case for LGBTQ+ inclusion
5.20PM – 5.50PM Shared journeys and stories
Cieran de Valmency - CTO, Nat20 Design & Gamechangers Organisation
Recently published an article in this week's The Oracle magazine about his experiences with the new Supreme Court ruling. The latest attacks on the community have very much pushed him to get more involved publicly and discuss social change in a welcoming environment.
Jax Feeley - Award Winning Speaker, Broadcaster & Advocate
Hugo Remi – CEO – Cardaq Ltd
Personal journey and Pridepay
David Bevens – Portico
Polari and/or the linguistic origins of key LGBTQIA+ language/terms
6.00PM – 8.00PM Networking drinks and end
19 June PRIDE S U M M E R E V E N T ’ 2 5
Paul Moreton
Paul Moreton, a seasoned professional with a remarkable three-decade journey in the attractions and TV industry, brings a wealth of expertise spanning strategic, commercial, and creative realms. His fascinating career trajectory commenced with humble beginnings, selling balloons at Alton Towers in 1991, and has evolved into leadership roles at renowned establishments like Madame Tussauds; where he spearheaded the global rollout and the highly successful launch of the New York location; The London Eye, and UKTV.
Notably, Paul's narrative took an exciting turn in 2012 when he re-joined Merlin Entertainments as the Group Creative Director, a pivotal position that saw him as the driving force behind the development of iconic Merlin attractions worldwide; including LEGOLANDs, Peppa Pig theme parks and Merlin’s six European Resort Theme Parks.
In his current role as Chief Development Officer, Paul occupies a key position on Merlin's Executive Committee, where he heads the creative and development arm of the business – Merlin Magic Makers. This division, situated at the core of Merlin’s development and growth strategy, places Paul in charge of product and experience development across the entire group, encompassing external IP partnerships and creative execution. His responsibilities extend globally, with his team engaged in designing and constructing accommodation, ride, and attraction developments in over 23 countries.
Despite residing in London, Paul is a globetrotter, dedicating substantial time to visit Merlin's diverse attractions worldwide. Beyond his professional pursuits, he actively champions diversity and inclusion within Merlin, showcasing a commitment to fostering a more inclusive industry landscape.
Paul’s story reflects his deep passion for creativity, innovation, and the power of great entertainment to connect with people all over the world.
ANNA BRENT
Anna Brent is the Creative Studio Manager at Merlin Magic Making, the in-house Creative and Project Delivery team at Merlin Entertainments.
Merlin Entertainments is a global leader in branded entertainment destinations, and the MMM team designs and delivers world-class attractions and themed accommodation, weaving their magic to create amazing guest experiences across Merlin’s diverse portfolio.
At MMM, Anna is part of the Creative Leadership Team, where she linemanages Creatives and Creative Producers, supporting them to make the best work of their lives!
Before that, Anna was at award winning indie creative agency Across the Pond, in roles including Head of Growth & DEI, Head of Marketing Operations and Executive Producer. She spent five years in-house at Google/ YouTube as a Creative Lab partner.
Anna works to constantly drive positive changes in the industry, including several years on the Executive Board for Outvertising - the not for profit organisation that works to make UK advertising and marketing completely LGBTQIA+ inclusive. She is a clear and leading voice on diversity that can be found in the pages of Campaign, Little Black Book and The Metro (she/her)
TIM SPOOR MBE
Tim is the co-founder and CEO of Queerwell the LGBTQ+ mental health and wellness charity. He has 27 years of charity sector leadership in LGBTQ+ advocacy, homelessness, health, social justice; and service transformation through strategic development, fundraising, and policy influence.
His experience includes international advisory roles, major donor fundraising, executive coaching, mental health social work, and groundbreaking research
EBONY QUOW
Ebony Quow is a dynamic HR leader and board advisor, renowned for driving transformative people strategies that unlock talent potential and embed lasting cultural change.
A specialist in HR transformation, organisational design, and DEI strategy, she challenges the status quo, collaborating with C-suite leaders to shape inclusive, high-performing environments that drive sustainable, impactful measurable business outcomes.
Beyond corporate HR, Ebony plays a key role as an Advisory Board Member for the Lancashire Cricket Foundation, where she passionately supports initiatives that make cricket more inclusive and accessible. As an Ambassador for WiHTL & Diversity in Retail, she advises on longterm DEI strategies that amplify representation and equity and in a newly non-executive director for Squad Goals working with the founder and executive team to advise on their people and culture strategy.
With a commitment to breaking down barriers, and facilitating meaningful change Ebony’s influence extends across corporate, sport, and retail sectors. She thrives on shaping good governance, accelerating diverse talent, and driving high-performance cultures that foster innovation, inclusion and belonging.
LIZ JACOBS
(they/them)
Liz brings over a decade of experience in human rights, international development, and philanthropy across nonprofit and private sectors.
As the Director of Global Programmes, Liz leads Open for Business’ programmatic work, which includes developing the global programmes team strategy, overseeing regional and national-level research, and growing engagement with local civil society and coalition partners.
Before joining Open for Business, Liz served as Head of Middle East Programmes and LGBTQI+ Lead at Choose Love, overseeing £1.4 million in grants to 48 partners and developing the organisation’s first global LGBTQIA+ strategy.
Liz has also held roles at Goldman Sachs, managing philanthropic initiatives on racial equity and mental health, and at Stonewall UK, leading its international LBT+ programme.
Their work has taken them across the US, South Africa, Thailand, and the Netherlands, before settling in the UK nearly ten years ago.
Liz holds an MSc in International Development Studies from the University of Amsterdam, where they focused on the impacts of globalization on LGBTQ+ communities in Myanmar.
JASON JONES
Jason Jones is a prominent LGBTQIA+ activist from Trinidad and Tobago, known for his courageous legal challenge against discriminatory laws.
His successful challenge to the constitutionality of Sections 13 and 16 of the Sexual Offenses Act, which prohibited consensual same-sex sexual activity, marked a significant victory for LGBTQIA+ rights in the region.
He is a powerful advocate for human rights, and equality.
TRIS REID-SMITH
Tris Reid-Smith is a journalist and editor. He was previously editor-in-chief of Pink Paper, Gay Times, DIVA and AXM.
He co-founded the world's first Digital Pride festival and Gay Star News, which was the leading LGBTQIA+ global news provider until it closed in 2020.
He is now co-founder and CEO of the new global NGO, Pride Wide, with a mission to build the narrative power of LGBTQIA+ communities.
DEBS MILLS-BURNS
Deb Mills-Burns is a spoken word poet, veteran, and published author whose work explores themes of resilience, identity, mental toughness, and the human experience.
With a background in military service, she brings a powerful and authentic voice to her poetry, blending raw emotion with thought-provoking narratives.
As a published author, Deb’s writing delves into personal and collective stories, offering a unique perspective, shaped by her experiences.
Currently, she is working with Women of Our Time (WOOT) to provide support and advice to women of all ages, empowering them through mentorship, advocacy, and creative expression.
Through her performances, publications, and community work, Deb continues to inspire and challenge audiences with her compelling storytelling and unwavering commitment to uplifting others
DEE LLEWELLYN
Dee Llewellyn is a prominent LGBTQ+ advocate and community leader, currently serving as the Director of Partnerships & Growth at Pride in London and Chair of the UK Pride Organisers Network – a charity dedicated to supporting over 180 Pride events across the UK.
With a strong background in brand partnerships, strategic growth, and inclusive programming, Dee plays a critical role in building the alliances that power Pride in London – one of the UK's largest and most impactful Pride celebrations. As Chair of UKPON, she helps to amplify and support grassroots Pride organisers nationwide, promoting collaboration, sustainability, and best practice across the Pride movement.
A proud lesbian and mother to a non-binary child, Dee brings both professional insight and lived experience to her advocacy, ensuring LGBTQ+ communities are not only represented but meaningfully empowered. Her work particularly champions trans inclusion, queer youth visibility, and intersectional equity across all platforms.
Previously, Dee led commercial partnerships at Pride Cymru, where she also served as a Trustee. She is the founder of the Welsh Diversity & Inclusion Awards, recognising and honouring contributions to equality across Wales.
Through her national leadership, community-first mindset, and unwavering commitment to equality, Dee continues to drive real change for LGBTQ+ people across the UK. (she/her)
CHRIS JOELL-DESHIELDS
As Chief Executive of Pride in London, Christopher leads the strategic direction and operational management of the UK's largest and most diverse Pride festival, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community and promoting inclusion and equality. He has over 20 years of experience in management roles across the public and private sectors, with a focus on government relations, international affairs, and tourism and hospitality management. Christopher is passionate about creating a positive social impact and delivering world-class standards of customer service, while achieving business objectives and driving brand recognition.
He has a significant expertise in developing and maintaining partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders, including sponsors, media, charities, and government agencies. He also has strong financial and commercial acumen, overseeing large budgets and diverse resources, and ensuring accountability and transparency. Additionally, Chris has completed several certificates in diversity, equity, and inclusion (EDI) and mental health, demonstrating my commitment to fostering a culture of respect, well-being, and belonging within Pride in London and beyond.
REBECCA PAISIS
As Director of Operations and Events at Pride in London, Rebecca leads the delivery of the UK's largest one-day event, bringing together 1.7 million people, 30,000+ parade participants and 800+ volunteers to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and fight for equal rights for all.
She is responsible for the public safety of everyone attending the event, serving as the primary liaison with critical stakeholders, including the Greater London Authority, Westminster City Council, Metropolitan Police Service, Transport for London, Emergency Services, and local resident and business associations.
Her operational expertise encompasses comprehensive event production including multiple stage and performance areas, technical production oversight, talent management and artist coordination. Rebecca develops and implements safety strategies, crowd management plans, emergency response protocols, and manages all aspects of risk assessment and compliance with safety regulations.
Prior to Pride in London, Rebecca was Co-founder of one of the UK's largest LGBTQ+ events businesses, where she consistently pushed boundaries to create groundbreaking experiences for the LGBTQ+ community. (she/her)
AYLA HOLDOM
(she/her)
Ayla (she/her) served in the RAF for thirteen years, did a ground tour in Iraq in 2008, and then spent seven years as a Sea King helicopter captain for the RAF's Search and Rescue Force, based in North Wales, North Devon and the Falkland Islands. She now flies helicopters for the National Police Air Service, supporting Police Forces across the UK. Ayla came out as transgender around 2010 and remained serving with her operational Search and Rescue unit throughout. The support and pragmatism of her colleagues and the wider armed forces made that transitional time not only possible, but empowering and successful. Ayla is the professional she is today, because she wasn’t forced to hide who she is.
In 2015 after taking part in a Stonewall Leadership Programme and delivering a Keynote speech at Stonewall's Workplace Conference, Ayla joined the Stonewall Trans Advisory Group, as Stonewall began its journey to being fully and proudly trans-inclusive, and now sits on the Stonewall Board of Trustees.
In 2018, Ayla was portrayed in the critically acclaimed stage production ‘Still Point Turning’ by the Sydney Theatre Company and featured as one of many ‘RAF Stories’ at the RAF Museum, London. Ayla also briefly flew Sea King helicopters again as a civilian after leaving the RAF, for the privately run Historic Helicopters.
She lives outside a small village on a hill in Devon with her wife, Wren (an ICU doctor), their three cats, many marine fish and numerous chickens. In November 2020, Wren and Ayla welcomed their newborn daughter, River, into the family.
JAMIE LOVE
Jamie Love is a dynamic entrepreneur, influencer, and social media expert revolutionising marketing with bold diversity, authentic storytelling, and real results.
As the founder of Monumental, Jamie proves that diversity isn’t just a value it’s a game-changer. His mission is clear: build an inclusive world through campaigns that truly connect.
A proud LGBTQ+ activist and Marketing Director for Pride Edinburgh, Jamie uses his platform to champion transformative storytelling and lead a movement for change.
With over a decade of brand-building expertise and the unique perspective of an influencer, Jamie bridges the gap between influencer culture and brand authenticity. His social-first strategies ignite genuine engagement and lasting impact.
Under Jamie’s leadership, Monumental has set the standard for diversitydriven social commerce and influencer marketing, delivering award-winning results globally.
For Jamie, every campaign isn’t just marketing—it’s a legacy.
wagamama
From the day they opened their doors, wagamama have embraced an egalitarian approach.
They have strived to be a safe place where people can come together and sit all on one bench, ensuring that everyone is included, no matter who you are, what your story is or how you identify.
Whether one of their guests or part of their team, they’re honoured to celebrate the incredible lgbtqia+ individuals that form their vast and diverse community, this pride season and beyond.
“because we’re at our most proud when we’re together”
DIVA MAGAZINE
DIVA Media Group is the world’s leading entertainment group for LGBTQI women and non binary people.
As well as publishing DIVA magazine, DMG is also the force behind Lesbian Visibility Week, DIVA Awards, Pride Power List and Rainbow Honours.
First published in 1994, DIVA is the world’s best-selling magazine for LGBTQI women, spotlighting all that is fresh, funny, exciting, controversial and cutting-edge in our community.
DIVA brings you the latest in lesbian and bi related celebrity interviews, news, politics, pop culture, style, travel, social issues, entertainment and more.
We tackle the tough topics, like racism in the LGBTQI community, mental health and the challenges facing queer youth, and also profile inspirational women who are making a difference to the lives of lesbian, bi and trans women.
DIVA Media Group offers a range of platforms, delivering content relevant to the interests of LGBTQI women through print, digital, mobile and social.
JAKE & HANNAH GRAF
They are widely known as the UK’s ‘Transgender Power Couple’ after being named as the Most Influential LGBTQ Couple by The Guardian. They are passionate about gender, equality and diversity and having become something of an inspiration to the wider transgender community, they work tirelessly to represent it both in the UK and internationally.
Jake: London-based actor, writer, and director whose award-winning films have screened at over 100 festivals worldwide. His feature debut Lavender is in development with BAFTA-nominated MisFits Entertainment, and he’s currently developing two TV drama pilots. Jake’s work focuses on positive social change, highlighting underrepresented stories and serving as educational tools globally. As an actor, he’s appeared in ITV’s Butterfly, DBO’s Different For Girls, and starred opposite Keira Knightley in Colette. He is a patron of Mermaids, akt, and Ditch The Label, and serves as a judge for several major diversity awards. Drawing on his experience in film, acting, and writing—as well as his personal journey through transition and recovery—Jake speaks powerfully on media representation, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and the importance of supporting marginalized communities in the workplace.
Hannah: retired British Army Captain who served globally in locations including Germany, Canada, Kenya, and Afghanistan. A transgender woman, her transition gained national attention in 2015, and she has since become a prominent advocate for equality and transgender visibility in the UK. She is a Patron of Mermaids and an LGBT Sport ambassador in Wales, and has been recognized with numerous honors, including Cosmopolitan Woman of the Year, an honorary fellowship from Cardiff University, and an MBE for her work on LGBTQ policy in the military. With her unique experience as a decorated officer who transitioned while serving, Hannah speaks with authority on military life, diversity, and inclusive leadership. She has delivered talks for leading organizations such as Warner Brothers, PWC, HSBC, Barclays, and Pride in London.
RACHEL MASING
Rachel is the People Director of Poolhouse, a new competitive socialising brand built around a tech-enhanced version of pool and set in a spectacular hospitality venue, launching soon to London.
With a 20-year background in premium hospitality, she has cultivated a People approach that emphasises workplace cultures where people feel seen, supported and inspired to grow in this industry.
Rachel endorses innovation at each step of the employee lifecycle and takes pleasure in speaking on panels and podcasts to keep the topic of employee engagement at the forefront of conversation.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, Rachel understands the power of inclusive leadership and the importance of safe, encouraging spaces at work. You’ll find her in her element mentoring future leaders or designing hiring processes that capture the unique characteristics of hospitality top talent. Rachel has a deep love of hospitality in all forms.
GEMMA HAMPTON-STONE
Gemma has worked in the hospitality industry for 20 number of years, and before taking on the role as Managing Director for Bodean’s, and Rose Pubs Group, she with some of the city’s most loved pubs groups as Director of Operations for Noble Inns, Grosvenor Pubs and Cubitt House.
Gemma leveraged her extensive experience in premium food environments, honed through leading distinguished pubs across London, to breathe new life into Bodean’s. With a deep understanding of high-quality dining experiences, guest expectations, and brand storytelling, she has set a task on blending craftsmanship with operational excellence to refine Bodean’s identity. Her expertise in curating authentic yet elevated food and drink offerings, combined with a strategic approach to guest engagement, will ensure that the brand remains true to its original ethos of ‘Barbecue, Bourbon & Beer’ while embracing modern standards of quality and hospitality.
Following Bodean’s Clapham and Fulham closures, Gemma was introduced to breathe new life into the long-standing brand, and as part of this mission, she brought in Richard H. Turner, one of the country’s most loved ‘meat experts’ as Chef Director. Richard previously worked with the likes of Hawkesmoor, PittCue Co, and Blacklock; co-founding much-loved butchers Turner & George, and Meatopia barbecue food festival. Gemma alongside Richard, has helped to steer Bodean’s back, and re-engaging the public with the long-standing institution
FELIPE CHAVEZ
Originally from Colombia, Felipe moved to the UK at the age of 17.
Navigating living in a new country, searching for his first job, and trying to connect with other people and professionals, he was fortunate to discover the world of hospitality and he’s never looked back.
He began his journey in events catering, starting as event staff and steadily working his way up through roles as a waiter, team leader, and eventually reached the position of manager. It was during this time he was invited to join the company ’ s recruitment resourcing team.
Not being tied to studies, Felipe dedicated himself fully, progressing quickly; and by the age of 21, he was leading the department and managing a team of resourcers.
Now, almost a decade later at the age of 31, Felipe has built a solid portfolio of experiences, having led recruitment departments for several well-known bar and restaurant groups.
He’s particularly recognised for his creative leadership in managing largescale, nationwide recruitment projects, a skillset he continues to apply in his current role.
As Recruitment Manager at Pho, he is proud to be part of a dynamic, fastgrowing business with a strong vision and exciting plans for the future.
ARBI RAI
Arbi leads Recruitment Operations and Experience at Virgin Atlantic, drawing on a broad talent acquisition background across aviation, technology, and financial services.
His experience spans early careers, experienced hire, volume, and executive recruitment in various markets, including the UK and India.
Arbi is a passionate advocate for inclusion, contributing to initiatives like Black Careers Matter, CIPD Social Action, and workplace mental health and race equity. He has spoken on LGBTQIA+ issues at events such as The Telegraph D&I Conference, the Institute of Student Employers, and Bright Network. He was previously named within the Financial Times Empower list and chaired the ISE Diversity & Inclusion Working Group.
Openly gay and from an ethnic minority background, Arbi speaks candidly about his experiences to challenge perceptions, educate others, and help dismantle barriers to inclusion.
A graduate of the University of Bath, he has lived across the UK and in Latin America, bringing a global perspective to his work and advocacy.
DOMINIC ARNALL
Dominic is Chief Executive of Open for Business (OFB), a coalition of global organisations dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ inclusion. Open for Business use data and research to make the economic case for LGBTQ+ inclusion. Open for Business has programmes in East Africa, The Caribbean, Central and Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia.
Dominic is also a judge for the World Economic Forum’s Lighthouse Programme, a programme that gives awards for excellence in DEI practice and a counsellor for the World Business Council for sustainable development.
Previous to working for Open for Business Dominic was Chief Executive of Just Like Us, the LGBT+ young people's charity, which grew to work with more than half of all secondary schools in the UK and also Head of Projects and Programmes for Stonewall, leading their programmes in education and international, delivering several projects supporting human rights defenders in Russia and Eastern Europe; the Western Balkans and Turkey.
Dominic also worked as Head of Programme Management for Mind, delivering the £25 million Time to Change campaign designed to challenge stigma around mental health conditions.
Dominic is on the board of London Bisexual Network and lives in Brighton, UK with his partner and his cat.
CIERAN DE VALMENCY
(he/him)
Cieran is a web developer and graphic designer, best known for building the Gamechangers Organisation online platform.
He works with brands like Inntegra, the Speakeasy Project and Home Leisure Direct, bringing digital and creative solutions to the hospitality and competitive socialising space.
Though he prefers to be the ‘ guy behind the screen ’ , the escalating and severe attacks on trans rights in the UK have made staying quiet (and indoors) impossible.
Speaking out isn’t a choice anymore, it’s a necessity.
JAX FEELEY
One of the most exciting emerging talents in tv and podcasting, Jaxon Feeley is a TV Personality, Podcast Host, Presenter, Speaker, Model and SO much more.
Transitioning whilst still a serving prison officer in 2021, Jaxon uses his wealth of experience to inspire, motivate and encourage people from all walks of life to find and most importantly LIVE their truth.
Jaxon has featured on a number of TV programmes, including Channel 4's BAFTA nominated Banged Up, and more recently won the latest season of Hunted.
Aside from his TV appearances, Jaxon is an inspirational and trusted voice when it comes to living authentically. His message is not about gender, it is about LIFE and showing every individual that you have the power to be 100% authentic within yourself, if only you decide to look in the mirror and do the things that scare you.
An advocate and figurehead for normalising trans people in the mainstream media, Jaxon has featured on podcasts such as Dodge Woodall’s Eventful Lives and Chris Sweeney’s Homosapiens as well as hosting programmes for Virgin Radio, covering hard hitting topics such as cyber bullying and mental health.
Award winning cover model, Jaxon is the whole package, northern charm mixed with confident and strong delivery, model good looks, paired with an ability to draw the best out of everyone he interacts with. You are guaranteed a professional, warm and engaging pair of hands for any event
HUGO REMY
With 19 years of experience in FinTech, Hugo Remi leads Cardaq Limited and Pridepay, where his leadership has earned multiple industry honors, including recognition as the Best Card Issuing Institution in the UK.
Under his guidance, the team has achieved principal membership with Visa, Mastercard, and UnionPay, reflecting their commitment to innovation and excellence in electronic payments.
DAVID BEVENS
David has worked in learning and development for 17 years and is currently the Head of Learning and Development at Portico.
In this role, he is responsible for the design and implementation of the company ’ s corporate learning strategy. A core element of David’s approach is creating “ room to bloom” – the belief that everyone is gloriously different and expresses their brilliance in unique ways. He is passionate about building psychologically safe learning environments where individuals are given the space and support they need to truly flourish.
As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse communities, David is deeply committed to fostering a culture of authenticity. He strives to ensure that every colleague feels empowered to bring their whole, authentic selves to work, knowing their perspectives, ideas, and experiences will be recognised and respected.
In 2024, David was honoured to be included in WiHTL & DiR’s ‘Role Models for Inclusion Index’. WiHTL & Diversity in Retail is a collaborative community dedicated to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion across the hospitality, travel, leisure, and retail sectors. The index celebrates individuals who actively champion EDI and create inclusive workplace cultures.
Through his learning and development work, David designs sessions that encourage open discussion, debate, and critical thinking around EDI, with a strong focus on LGBTQIA+ topics. Recent initiatives include Queer History & Milestones workshops, Understanding Identity roundtables, and Beyond The Binary sessions.
David is also particularly proud that Portico is an Approved Centre with ILM. One of the standout qualifications he delivers is the ILM Level 4 Award in Managing Equality & Diversity in an Organisation, which has played a key role in opening up meaningful conversations around bias, stereotypes, prejudice, and the journey toward LGBTQIA+ equality celebrating progress while recognising there is still much to be done.
