ASTRAZENECA

Patrick’s leadership and strategic acumen within AZPride has greatly enhanced the company’s inclusive culture, inspiring his LGBTQ+ colleagues including young people across the organisation. His collaborative and visionary approach creates an inclusive environment at AstraZeneca. He has been pivotal in setting the strategic direction for AZPride’s 2023 vision, attending key events to communicate the benefits of the ERG, as well as facilitating the merger between AZPride and PT&D Pride to create a unified brand and strategy. Patricks develops team members with one-to-one check-ins and is seen as a subject matter expert who reinforces the values of inclusivity.

EY

Emily’s unwavering efforts and dedication to championing LGBTQ+ representation has helped to build regional representation in the EY Manchester office. She has arranged various initiatives to promote inclusivity  and to celebrate diversity including LGBTQ+ theatre trips, lunches and other social engagement opportunities that foster a cohesive community. A significant achievement is the ‘Pro Manchester’ event where Emily brought together a group of diverse businesses across Manchester which included a panel on allyship through the ages and its continued importance. In her role as a mentor and role model for those starting their careers demonstrates commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders.

ASTRAZENECA

Lydia has demonstrated outstanding leadership and commitment to supporting young LGBTQ+ professionals via genuine allyship and as role model. She is a visible and proactive member of the AZPride ERG leadership team as their internal engagement lead, joining just 4 months into her career at AstraZeneca. Lydia organised and presented a cross-ERG collaboration event during Pride Month for those in their first 5 years of their career and on wider LGBTQIA+ issues in the STEM field. Young people at AstraZeneca feel supported by Lydia and they know her as a safe space for them in the business. As a result she plays an important role in positioning AstraZeneca as a welcoming employer.

ASTRAZENECA

Roeland’s leadership and dedication to his role inspires colleagues at AstraZeneca and into the wider LGBTQ+ community. This includes the young LGBTQ+ people working at AstraZeneca whom he provides mentorship and guidance to - they see him as a strong and supportive figure. He has significantly contributed towards the foundation and sustained development of the AZPride network. In his role as part of its leadership team he has solidified pivotal partnerships with myGwork and the Proud Science Alliance by promoting and nominating internal speakers for their events helping to amplify LGBTQ+ voices and employee stories. Roeland has worked hard to increase participation from apprentices and graduates in Cambridge to create a vibrant hub of inclusion under his leadership.

BENTLEY MOTORS

Emma is an advocate for inclusion and belonging internationally across the Volkswagen Group using her position and influence to stand up for what is right, rather than what is easy. She stands head and shoulders above her senior leadership peers and as sponsor of the colleague-led BeProud AND DEIB networks she has coached network chairs with memberships growing above 100 members. Emma advocates for and represents others, providing individual support and mentoring, taking time to connect and listen to community members, especially young LGBTQ+ colleagues. She has developed Bentley’s first inclusive leadership training and visited her former school to deliver career insights and to mark International Women’s Day, as well as providing students there with a strong LGBTQ+ role model.