Pride 2025 | Team feature

What does Pride mean to me?

Pride is a celebration of the progress the LGBTQ+ community has made over the past 50 years—the barriers we’ve broken, the prejudices we’ve challenged, and the equalities we’ve secured. Today, I feel confident and supported in expressing myself as a gay married man—but that wasn’t always the case. Growing up, it was incredibly difficult to talk about my sexuality or be openly out.

Pride is also a time for reflection. While countries like the UK have come a long way, many around the world still persecute people for their sexuality or gender identity—some facing discrimination, violence, or even death for simply being themselves.

Pride 2025 is more than a month—it’s a reminder of the world we’re working to build: one where everyone is seen, supported, and celebrated.

What one thing you wish more people understood about the LGBTQ+ community?

That whilst the LGBTQ+ community has campaigned for change and recognition, the focus has always been upon equality and inclusion. LGBTQ+ people do not want special rights or extra privileges. They just want the ability to be themselves and live their lives freely in safety without fear of prejudice or discrimination.

What make you feel included and supported at Leekes?

I feel incredibly fortunate to work for an organisation where being your authentic self is truly encouraged.

At Leekes, I’ve always felt welcomed, supported, and included. I’m proud to be open about who I am—as a gay man and a gay married man—able to speak freely about my husband without fear of prejudice or discrimination. Leekes genuinely values and embraces diversity, equality, and inclusion, and that makes all the difference.