Director at Mist LGBTQ Foundation | Mr Gay India 2020 | Core team LGBTQ+ Affairs at All India Professional Cong
Reflecting on my childhood, it's clear that my experiences were markedly different from many of my peers. Growing up feeling different, and navigating the complexities of understanding my identity in a world that often lacked understanding and acceptance, was a journey filled with challenges. It was these early experiences, marked by feelings of isolation and a longing for a community that understood, that laid the foundation for what would later become the MIST LGBTQ Foundation. Our mission was born from a personal understanding of the importance of acceptance, support, and love. Creating MIST was not just about building a community; it was about changing the narrative for future generations. I understand that not everyone can truly grasp what it feels like to grow up feeling out of place, to question your identity in a society that doesn't always provide the answers or the support you need. But from this personal journey, a crucial lesson emerged: the importance of sensitivity and empathy towards all, especially in environments where we spend a significant portion of our lives - our workplaces. This is a call to action for corporate leaders and employees alike to foster workplaces that are not just tolerant, but genuinely inclusive and safe for LGBTQ+ individuals. It's about moving beyond mere acceptance to creating environments where every person, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feels valued and supported. Let's be the architects of a corporate culture that celebrates diversity, practices empathy, and nurtures a sense of belonging for everyone. While not everyone will know how it feels to walk in my shoes, or the shoes of countless others in the LGBTQ+ community, everyone has the capacity to be a little more sensitive, a little more understanding, and a lot more supportive. #InclusionMatters #LGBTQSupport #SafeWorkplaces #DiversityAndInclusion #EmpathyInAction
