In June, Rapport’s Pride Committee spearheaded a vibrant month of celebration and education, bringing together teams across the organisation to honour Pride Month.
Throughout June, Rapport’s Pride Committee organised a series of impactful events and activities, blending education with celebration to honour Pride Month. Many Rapport teams also embraced the spirit locally within their contracts, hosting morning teas, decorating spaces, sharing educational resources, and even holding an origami session.
To kick off Pride Month, the committee teamed up with myGwork for an enlightening Kahoot quiz, led by Laila El-Metoui, a renowned advocate and founder of Pride in Education, among other initiatives. Laila’s expertise and insights made the quiz an engaging and eye-opening experience.
“Insightful and informative LGBTQ+ Pride Quiz with myGwork and Laila El-Metoui. I appreciate the time and effort it would have taken to put together the quiz! Shocked at some of the statistics especially in 2024 but I am grateful to have come away with more awareness now, thank you.”
As the summer sun finally emerged in late June, the Pride Committee hosted a vibrant picnic in Hyde Park, bringing together front and back-of-house ambassadors for a joyous celebration. Many attendees brought along their own cultural dishes to share, ensuring there was no shortage of food.
“A fun-filled afternoon full of creativity, celebration and community. Everyone brought traditional treats and savouries from their countries and so game to take part in cherry hunt and egg relay. Can’t wait ‘til our next get-together.”
To top off an exciting month, the committee organised an exclusive gathering in the city on the day of the London Pride march. Rapport ambassadors gathered at Zodiac bar in a private lounge for karaoke and celebrations before heading to watch the parade.
In the afternoon, members of the head office team and some Rapport clients attended the Hospitality VIP Lounge in Trafalgar Square, supported and sponsored by Pride in Food. Committed Rapport ambassadors worked in the lounge, ensuring all guests experienced a remarkable service, making Pride in London even more special.
Following months of meticulous planning, team members from Rapport, Restaurant Associates, and the wider Compass Group UK & Ireland proudly participated in the Birmingham Pride Parade. Restaurant Associates UK Co-chairs Megan Caulkett-Ridd and Nicolette Millward led the organisation of the event. There were over 65 colleagues and friends marching together, celebrating diversity, and showing unwavering support for the LGBTQIA+ community.
“It’s crucial to celebrate Pride and raise awareness especially in 2024 to continue advocating for equal rights, acceptance, and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community.
The work of Pride and other Be Yourself networks is important because they provide support, promote diversity, create a safe space for individuals to express their authentic selves without fear of judgment or discrimination, and make them feel like they belong.
My favourite part of Pride Month was participating in the Pride quiz, which was incredibly informative and allowed me to learn about the rich history of the LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, the summer park picnic was a blast, offering great fun and moments of connection with the team”
“As part of the committee and one of the co-chairs of the network, my goals and aspirations would focus on continuing what our previous chairs have started in creating a supportive and inclusive environment for our colourful community and our allies within and outside Rapport.
How?
By continuously leading by example, promoting awareness and education towards our community by starting on my team within our contract; and advocating Inclusivity and encourage allyship.
We still have a long battle to fight, we need to continue spreading education and keep the fire on our beacon that our community have been fighting for.”
As Pride Month came to a close, the events and activities organised by Rapport’s Pride Committee left a lasting impact on all who participated. These celebrations were not just a moment in time, but a continuous commitment to promoting diversity, inclusion, and equality within our organisation and beyond. We look forward to continuing this important work in the months and years to come.
Launched in 2012, Rapport is an award-winning, specialist company that provides corporate organisations with a range of fully managed front of house and back of house guest services. They provide services in all major cities in UK & Ireland, also globally with a strong presence in North America, Canada, Denmark, Switzerland, Australia, and Hong Kong.
The company’s fully managed offer includes reception, concierge, client meeting room management, community manager, workspace and floor coordination, switchboard and other call services. Rapport’s ambassadors create rapport with clients and their guests from the outset, leaving them with the perfect impression every time.
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