Working in the health and life sciences industry for over a decade, I’ve come to realise there is a deep-rooted need for equality, inclusion, and diversity. The Proud Science Alliance works to educate companies on how to create safe and inclusive workplaces for LGBTQ+ employees world-wide. LGBTQ+ employees that can be their true, authentic selves at work will feel encouraged to speak up and be a catalyst for change. Together, we can and will create a better tomorrow for everyone

As a recent graduate who spent much of their time working with the science faculty on equality, diversity, and inclusion at my university,
I have developed an intimate understanding of how young LGBTQ+ people today feel when trying to break into the life science and pharmaceutical sector. I am confident that collaboration with the Proud Science Alliance team can break down the barriers for the LGBTQ+ community by providing equal opportunities and creating a safe, fair workplace. A multi-disciplinary, multi-faceted approach is key to increasing awareness and improving inclusivity within the industry and with an intersectional approach, we are determined to make this a reality.”By working together will we ensure that our current and future employees are equally valued, irrespective of their gender identity or sexual orientation; so that they are comfortable to bring their true self to work every day and to be the best they can be.

I firmly believe that being yourself at work is vital to a fulfilling and productive career, and I see our role as the PSA to foster an environment that will aid our industry in being able to achieve this.

Being the parent of a young person who identifies as non-binary has taken me on a journey personally and professionally that I never expected. That journey has made me determined to make work a place where people can be themselves and know they are safe. For me, the Proud Science Alliance is a driver for the change needed in workplaces so that anyone who identifies as LGBTQ+ can know they are as safe and valued as their cis and straight colleagues. By collaborating we can show this is how the healthcare and life science sector should and must be.

While we’ve made real progress in LGBTQ+ support, inclusion and representation in the workplace, we still have so far to go, and we cannot take this progress for granted. One in five people still feel that being LGBTQ+ limits their job opportunities, which is unacceptable. I am passionate about building more inclusive environments, and being able to bring your whole self to work, and I am proud to give my support to this work. The Proud Science Alliance is a powerful opportunity for members of the health and life sciences community to come together and drive change for the better, for everyone.