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BDO’s PRIDE Network is celebrating it’s 10th anniversary.

Formerly known as Blend, our PRIDE network was founded in 2014 with the aim of creating a safe, open-minded, and encouraging work environment when it comes to gender and sexual identity, so that everyone can thrive.

To mark this fantastic milestone, we interviewed members of the PRIDE Network on how being a part of the network has made a positive contribution to their working environment.

BDO UK

Reflecting on the past decade, how has the PRIDE network influenced your personal and professional growth within BDO, and can you share a pivotal moment or event that encapsulates this journey?

"Before joining the PRIDE Network, I had no idea about all the amazing work that was going into spreading information and supporting individuals within BDO. A pivotal moment for me was joining the Viva Engage page. It alerted me to opportunities to get more involved with the PRIDE Network and gave me a perfect platform to get more involved with my local hub in a way that I feel I can make a difference. Since doing this, I have stepped up to lead the Support Service Centre’s ‘Be Yourself’ platform which has been a significantly rewarding experience, one that would not have happened without the influence of PRIDE!"

Amanda, Tax Support Service Centre Associate, Liverpool

BDO UK

The PRIDE network has been instrumental in shaping firm policies and systems. Can you discuss a specific policy change that you feel has significantly contributed to a more inclusive environment at BDO?

The big win for PRIDE was the inclusion of the ‘Be Bold, Be Yourself, Be Allies’ video in the firms mandatory onboarding training. We have also managed to get ‘Trans Inclusion’ training on WorkDay and so many people have made their pronouns visible on Teams and in email footers - normalising asking what pronouns are and creating great discussions.  

Ben, Audit Trainee, Gatwick

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In September we held a fundraising event with Knight Frank which was a great opportunity to meet more colleagues across BDO but also very several other firms. The event was in support of Stonewall Housing which highlighted the incredibly important work that they do and help raise essential funds for them.  

Elizabeth

Resourcing Adviser

Over the years, PRIDE has been a driving force behind several educational initiatives, including the 'Be Yourself' policy. How important do you think education and awareness have been in fostering an inclusive culture, and what has been the most impactful educational content or event?

Education and awareness are of upmost importance for PRIDE. People should feel safe and happy with their identities, know they are respected and be welcomed into communities. By taking the time to spread awareness of LGBTQIA+ issues and educate, we can make the world a better place to live. Inclusive education can improve quality of life, including improving mental health conditions, enabling a better world for all communities.

Charlie, Audit Trainee, Gatwick

As we celebrate PRIDE's 10-year anniversary, looking forward, what are your aspirations for the network, and how do you envision it continuing to support and empower BDO's LGBTQ alliances and the firm as a whole?

I would love to continue to see the network grow and have champions in every office and region. It would be wonderful to be able to combine all of the champions efforts to organise regular interoffice events that would allow us to strengthen our community and give everyone more regular networking opportunities within the PRIDE network, including alumni, new joiners and potential applicants! A wonderful thing to be able to setup would be to form a connection with an LGBT+ focused charity, and be able to organise regular fundraising events to make a difference in our community or wider yet!   

Lizzie, Audit Semi-Senior, Southampton

What have been some of your proudest moments of the network?

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