I have more than 15 years' experience working across LGBTQ+ community building and inclusion, with a perspective shaped by experience on both sides of the conversation. I've helped establish corporate LGBTQ+ networks, built and supported grassroots communities, worked with LGBTQ+ businesses and organisations, and created events and initiatives designed to bring people together.

Today, I work with DEI and Inclusion Leads and LGBTQ+ Network Chairs across a range of organisations, helping to facilitate relationships, share knowledge and turn ideas into practical activity. I also sit on the Steering Committee of InterMediaUK, bringing together my experience of corporate environments with a long history of working directly within LGBTQ+ communities.

I understand that good intentions don't automatically create meaningful engagement. Employee networks are often run by volunteers alongside demanding day jobs, grassroots organisations can struggle to access the right people and resources, and organisations don't always understand the communities they want to reach. I particularly enjoy working in the space between them, helping people connect, understand each other and find practical ways forward.

My approach to inclusion is grounded in community rather than campaigns. It's about understanding who you're trying to reach, listening to different experiences, building trust and recognising that LGBTQ+ people aren't one homogeneous audience. Sometimes that requires strategy, but just as often it needs practical support, better connections, clearer communication or somebody willing to ask what isn't currently working and why.