curious.

Be curious.

July 8, 2025
Episode 2

Building Bridges: Conversation with Lena & Merel on Pride and Allyship

In the second episode of our People Insights Podcast - Pride Week edition - we engage in a meaningful conversation with Lena, a member of our global community for LGBTQ+ colleagues " JustBe ", and Merel, a supportive ally from "JustBeFriends".

What moments have truly showcased the impact of allyship? How can we ensure that the spirit of Pride endures throughout the year? Join us as Lena and Merel share their experiences, the challenges they face in promoting inclusivity, and the vital role of allyship in creating a supportive culture.

Discover how small everyday actions can lead to significant change and why it’s essential to normalize Pride in our communities. Tune in for inspiring insights that highlight the importance of allyship and the collective effort needed to foster an inclusive environment for all.

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What allyship means to me: Be Empathetic.
Portrait of Merel, Consultant
Merel, Consultant
If I think about what allyship means to me, many things come to mind. Allyship can encompass anything from using inclusive language to participating in protests. But for me, it all boils down to one thing: empathy.

Being an ally to the LGBTQ+ community doesn't require a significant time commitment. While educating yourself on inclusive terminology and participating in Pride events is valuable, allyship can begin with small actions. For instance, by considering the impact of our words, we can avoid unintentionally hurting others and already make a big impact!

This means using more inclusive terms (for example, referring to someone’s “partner” instead), thinking twice about a joke that might be at the expense of others, and doing our best to make everyone feel welcome! In a work environment where everyone can be themselves and where different personalities and perspectives come together, we can truly bring out the best in ourselves and our teams.
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