As a leading LGBTQI+ expert and advocate in the United Kingdom, I have devoted my career across Government Service, Policing, and the NHS to advancing equality and inclusion. Throughout my tenure in the public sector, I have strategically utilised my positions to implement meaningful change for marginalised communities, with particular focus on public institutions.

My advocacy for LGBTQI+ rights stems from personal experience. As a Veteran whose contribution to “Serving with Pride” documented my involuntary departure from the Royal Navy based on sexual orientation, this pivotal experience reshaped my professional trajectory and strengthened my resolve to prevent similar discrimination in public service.

As co-founder of the first LGBTQI+ network within the Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office, I introduced critical gendered perspectives to policy discussions, addressing unique challenges faced by LGBTQ staff in diplomatic and governmental settings. My collaborative work with senior officials and government ministers has influenced LGBTQI+ policies domestically and internationally, creating safer working environments for women and all LGBTQI+ personnel serving in the UK and abroad. This work was recognised with an MBE.

My expertise in gender and sexuality issues has been acknowledged across multiple government departments. I have successfully unified LGBTQI+ networks throughout public and private sectors, including the UK Armed Forces, ensuring representation of diverse LGBTQI+ perspectives at executive levels.

In my capacity as a Diversity Role Model and educational speaker in secondary schools, I share insights as a gay woman who has navigated and reformed government systems from within. Additionally, as a volunteer with the RAF Air Cadets and D&I Advisor, I provide strategic guidance on inclusive practices addressing the needs of all participants, with specific attention to challenges confronting young women and LGBTQI+ youth.

As a recognised LGBTQI+ authority in the UK, I maintain that our collective strength derives from solidarity and representation. My objective as both a government professional and advocate is to leverage my platform to highlight community resilience, acknowledge historical challenges, and develop policy frameworks ensuring equality for future generations.

I remain dedicated to integrating diverse perspectives within government and beyond, working collaboratively to establish systems where women and all LGBTQI+ individuals can excel without impediments. My combined professional expertise and lived experience uniquely position me to continue driving institutional change throughout UK government entities and broader society.