National Conference 2025: A day of connection, empowerment, and action

National Conference 2025: A day of connection, empowerment, and action

A day of connection, courage and community

On Thursday 6 November, more than 175 LGBTQ+ leaders, aspiring leaders and allies came together in Manchester for a full day of connection, learning and inspiration at the second annual Pride in Leadership National Conference.

As the flagship event in our year-round calendar, the conference brings our mission to life: breaking down barriers to career progression for LGBTQ+ professionals and creating the conditions for people to thrive. This year we were proud to be supported by headline partner Crowe UK, alongside sponsors Trowers & Hamlins, Shoosmiths, Charity People and SAZ Media.

“Manchester, you delivered.”

“Claire Ebrey and Matt Haworth have created something truly impactful – a reliable and consistent space to connect, learn and celebrate our achievements.”

 

The day at a glance

• 08.30 – Registration and networking
  09.00 – Introduction and opening
  09.25 – Panel discussion: Leading with Pride in Challenging Times – With Laila El-Métoui and Kamran Khan, moderated by Matt Haworth
• 10.25 – TED-style talk with Pam Burrows
  Beyond Burnout – Leading with Pride and Personal Power
• 10.45 – Break and networking
• 11.15 – Masterclass A and Masterclass B
  Being Your Own Advocate with Junior Beaman
  When They Zig, We Zag with Anna Marsden
• 12.15 – Lunch and networking
• 13.15 – Talk: Quietly Catalytic – The Introvert’s Guide to Leadership – With Bobbi Pickard
• 14.05 – Break – return to masterclasses
• 14.25 – Masterclass C and Masterclass D
  Finding Courage in the Moment with Catherine Millan
  The Politics of Progress with Hannah Kennedy-Bardell
• 15.25 – Break
• 15.50 – Keynote speech
  The Power of Words: How What We Say Shapes Who We Become
  With Joanne Lockwood
• 16.50 – Closing remarks
• 17.00 – Networking drinks, food and music from DJ Ian Breen

 

A day of brilliant talks and masterclasses

The conference offered an exceptional line-up of speakers and facilitators, each bringing thoughtful insight and practical tools that leaders could take back into their workplaces and communities.

From the opening panel on leading through difficult times, to Pam Burrows’ energising session on avoiding burnout, to Bobbi Pickard’s quiet, powerful reflection on introverted leadership, the programme encouraged attendees to think differently about influence, authenticity and resilience.

The four masterclasses invited participants to deepen their learning in smaller groups – exploring advocacy, courage, political awareness and personal impact. These sessions were consistently described as energising, challenging and full of practical strategies.

 

Feedback from attendees

Feedback throughout the day, and on LinkedIn afterwards, was overwhelmingly positive – a testament to both the speakers and the community that formed in the room.

 A safe and transformative space

“It’s a really lovely vibe in the room. Lots of really lovely people to talk to. It feels like a very safe space.”

“In a world where LGBTQ+ leaders are in the minority, being in a room where you are suddenly the majority felt powerful.”

“As a trans woman, attending an event like this felt especially important this year. Being in a space where our full selves are welcome truly matters.”

Practical, applicable learning

Pam Burrows’ session on self-care left participants rethinking their boundaries. “I need to be kinder to myself and be better at self-care.”

Catherine Millan’s masterclass on microaggressions and bystander action made a strong impact:
“Training around microaggressions and how we can be better active bystanders was essential learning.”

Bobbi Pickard’s talk resonated with quieter leaders:
“As someone who isn’t a loud voice, it was empowering to see such a successful introvert talk about their success.”

And Joanne Lockwood’s keynote closed the day with purpose and energy:
“Her call to ‘be active, do something, take an action’ really resonated.”

The power of connection

Networking was a major highlight, with many commenting on the mix of sectors, backgrounds and experience in the room.

“I met so many amazing people and left with pockets full of business cards and exciting plans for collaborations.”

“It was a great opportunity to connect with fellow LGBTQ+ leaders and aspiring leaders from numerous sectors.”

An intersectional community

“There was a real focus on the wonderful intersectionality of our community and how we can support, protect and elevate each other.”

Strength in challenging times

“The current climate is rough for the LGBTQ+ sector, so it was great to be in a space with people who are also going through it.”

“Days like this are a great reminder of how strong and brilliant we can be when we push forwards together.”

 

Networking and community

The formal programme closed with a drinks reception, food and music from DJ Ian Breen, creating a relaxed and celebratory environment where conversations continued until 7.30pm.

 

With thanks

We are hugely grateful to our 2025 supporters:

• Headline partner: Crowe UK
• Sponsors: Trowers & Hamlins, Shoosmiths, Charity People, SAZ Media
• And to everyone who purchased Pay it Forward tickets, widening access for those who might not otherwise be able to attend.

 

Looking ahead

Pride in Leadership continues to host events in Manchester, London and online throughout the year. We also run a mentoring platform connecting LGBTQ+ professionals and deliver leadership and EDI training for LGBTQ+ staff networks across the UK.

Following the publication of our landmark report Breaking Barriers in April 2025, we remain committed to pushing for inclusive workplaces where LGBTQ+ people can succeed, lead and thrive.

The next Pride in Leadership National Conference will take place in November 2026. REGISTER YOUR INTEREST NOW AND YOU’LL BE FIRST TO KNOW.

 

Photos from the day