Celebrating 27 South Asians advancing LGBTQ+ inclusion and breaking barriers

As South Asian Heritage Month draws to a close, it's important to recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions of South Asian champions who are breaking barriers and fostering greater LGBTQ+ inclusion. Many inspiring LGBTQ+ South Asians are not only advocating for workplace equality but also creating safe spaces for marginalized voices. Their resilience and leadership challenge societal norms and inspire a new generation to embrace diversity and authenticity.

Here, in alphabetical order, are just 27 of the many South Asian trailblazers who are transforming their communities and industries through their unwavering dedication to LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion. The accomplishments of these LGBTQ+ South Asian leaders serve as a powerful reminder of the impact that can be made when courage meets conviction. Their pioneering work in promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion across diverse fields reflects the growing momentum toward a more inclusive and equitable world.

Their legacies will undoubtedly continue to inspire change and foster inclusivity long beyond South Asian Heritage Month.

Amir Kabel: A global diversity and inclusion champion

Amir Kabel is a trailblazing leader in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I), known for his impactful work across the globe with companies like Salesforce, Burberry, Adidas, Reebok, Coty, and Vodafone. With 16 years of experience, Amir has earned international recognition, including being listed in the global Top 50 Diversity Professionals List for four consecutive years and winning the prestigious ‘Head of Diversity’ Award at the European Diversity Awards in 2017. His career has taken him across the UK, Germany, and the U.S., giving him a deep understanding of the global DE&I landscape.

Amir’s innovative approach to D&I has seen him design and implement programs that are both pioneering and sustainable, creating lasting change in global organizations. As a South Asian leader, Amir is not just shaping D&I strategies but is also breaking barriers for the LGBTQ+ community, ensuring that inclusion is at the heart of global business practices. His roles as a Board D&I Advisor and judge on various awards panels further cement his status as a key voice in the fight for equality.

Anick Soni: Creative catalyst for LGBTQ+ inclusion

Anick Soni is a London-based writer, researcher, and advocate whose work bridges personal storytelling with wider cultural and social questions. Born intersex and raised in Leicestershire, Anick draws on a life shaped by complexity, resilience, and curiosity. His essays and talks explore identity, intimacy, belonging, and the intersections of heritage and contemporary life.

Anick’s writing spans reflective nonfiction, autofiction, and poetry, often blurring the boundaries between memoir and social commentary. His work has appeared on screen, in print, and online, reaching audiences who value nuance, compassion, and honesty. He is known for blending lyrical language with grounded insight, creating pieces that invite readers to look deeper, at themselves, at others, and at the world we share.

Beyond the page, Anick has produced documentaries, founded a charity supporting intersex voices, and spoken at universities, festivals, and community events across the UK. His public work has made him one of the few intersex voices from a male and Asian lens, advocating for more inclusive narratives in healthcare, media, and culture. Whether in conversation or on the page, Anick’s aim is the same: to create work that moves people, challenges assumptions, and makes space for stories rarely told but deeply needed.

Anjeli Patel: Pioneering trans inclusion in the workplace

Anjeli Patel is a groundbreaking Indian transgender woman making significant strides in workplace inclusion. As a Senior Consultant with EY’s people advisory practice, she has been instrumental in shaping the firm’s approach to gender identity and transition, helping to create supportive environments for transgender individuals. Anjeli’s dedication to inclusion has earned her recognition as a top leader on both the Empower Ethnic Minority Future Leaders List and the OUTstanding Future Leaders List.

Anjeli’s work goes beyond policy; she is actively involved in EY’s LGBT+ network Unity and serves as an ambassador for the trans support network transformation. Her journey is a testament to the challenges faced by trans individuals in the workplace and her efforts to overcome them, making her a powerful advocate for a more inclusive future

Arvind Kumar: Connecting queer South Asians across continents

Arvind Kumar is a true pioneer in the LGBTQ+ movement, particularly within the South Asian community. Back in January 1986, when the world was far less accepting, Arvind and his friend Suvir Das boldly reached out to gay South Asians across the globe, sparking a connection that would eventually lead to the formation of Trikon – the first support group and newsletter for queer South Asians.

Trikon, meaning triangle in Sanskrit, was more than just a support group; it was a beacon of hope and a symbol of resilience for many who felt isolated and invisible. By reclaiming the pink triangle – a symbol once used to persecute – Arvind and his peers transformed it into a proud emblem of LGBTQ+ pride and solidarity. Today, the legacy of Arvind Kumar’s work continues to inspire new generations of queer South Asians, helping them find community, strength, and a sense of belonging across continents.

Azeem Ahmad: Bridging communities and breaking barriers

Azeem Ahmad is a seasoned pharmacist and a dedicated advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion, especially within the Muslim community. Originally from Glasgow, Azeem has spent over 25 years in London, where he has played a pivotal role in creating spaces for queer Muslims to connect and thrive. His work includes organizing conferences that explore queer sexuality within Islamic traditions, fostering dialogue and understanding.

Azeem’s commitment to inclusion is deeply personal, and his efforts have helped bridge gaps between communities that are often at odds. His journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of intersectionality in the fight for equality.

Deon Pillay: Driving diversity in investment management

Deon Pillay is a trailblazing leader at the intersection of technology, finance, and inclusion. As Head of Marketing Technology, Enablement and Governance at Legal & General, Deon combines strategic innovation with a deep commitment to equity. A proud gay South Asian man, he channels his lived experience into transformative action amplifying underrepresented voices and reshaping industry norms.

As co-chair of LEGIT, Legal & General’s umbrella network of 12 employee resource groups, Deon fosters intersectional collaboration to drive inclusive strategy, unconscious bias training, and career development for marginalized talent. Through the L&GBT+ Allies Network and Culture Club, he has championed ethnically diverse representation and curated culturally resonant campaigns, including a groundbreaking South Asian Heritage Month spotlight on LGBTQ+ narratives.

Beyond his organisation, Deon co-founded the Racial Equity workstream at InterInvest, expanding its reach to over 40 member firms and pioneering industry-wide allyship training. His advocacy extends to the arts and community, raising significant funds for initiatives like the British Queer Museum. Recognised globally on multiple DEI power lists, Deon Pillay is not just a voice for change, he is a catalyst for systemic transformation, proving that authenticity, empathy, and leadership can rewrite the future.

DJ Ritu: Pioneer of British South Asian queer nightlife

DJ Ritu is a pioneering EDI activist, international turntablist, Rough Guides contributor, and BBC Radio presenter. In the 1980s, she established Shakti Disco at the London Lesbian and Gay Centre before co-founding both the legendary Club Kali in 1995 and the queer SWANA (South-West Asian and North African) music club Hoppa.

Ritu helped shape a British South Asian scene at a time when the larger British LGBTQ+ community was not welcoming. Today, things look very different: there is now a visible and accepted British South Asian queer presence. Ritu has played a crucial role in this transformation, providing education, nourishment, and safe spaces for British South Asian queer people, as well as for other people of colour who attend her club nights.

Her work has touched the lives of thousands, making a lasting impact on community, culture, and representation. In 2023, Ritu was awarded an MBE for services to music and broadcasting.

Faheem Khan: Empowering young people across the UK

Faheem Khan is the award-winning Founder and CEO of Future Leaders UK, a social mobility and social change organisation empowering thousands of young people from underrepresented backgrounds to access life-changing opportunities. An immigrant from Pakistan at the age of 11, Faheem draws on his own experiences of overcoming poverty, being neurodiverse, and navigating life as an LGBT+ person from a South Asian background.

He previously served as the LGBT Lead for the London Borough of Redbridge for six years and will be supporting the South Asian Heritage Month Trust with their youth engagement efforts during South Asian Heritage Month. Faheem was recently invited to speak at Parliament by the Asian Voice newspaper to share insights on diversity and inclusion.

Named on the Diversity Power List, recognised at the British Diversity Awards, and listed among the Top 10 Muslims in the charity sector, Faheem remains deeply committed to ensuring every young person – regardless of their starting point – can achieve their full potential.

Gurchaten Sandhu: Championing LGBTQ+ rights globally

Gurchaten Sandhu (he/they) is a distinguished LGBTIQ+ changemaker, currently serving as the Director of Programme at ILGA World. With a career dedicated to promoting social justice and improving LGBTQ+ rights, Gurchaten has been a key figure in advancing inclusive work environments and economic inclusion for marginalized communities.

Prior to joining ILGA World, Gurchaten served as Non-Discrimination Programme Officer at the International Labour Organization (ILO), where they built expertise on promoting social justice through quality, decent and inclusive work for all.

Their leadership roles have included serving as President of UN-GLOBE, the United Nations' staff group that fights for equality and non-discrimination of LGBTQ staff in the UN system and its peacekeeping operations.As a widely respected LGBTI changemaker and community leader, Gurchaten's work focuses particularly on enhancing LGBTIQ+ rights at work and economic inclusion, making them a leading voice in the global fight for equality.

Kamran Khan: Transforming organizations with a focus on inclusion

Kamran Khan is an organisation and business transformation consultant specialising in workforce change. With over 10 years of experience, he has delivered strategic and operational transformation in healthcare, education, government (both central and local), and the not-for-profit sectors. His expertise spans multiple areas including, workforce transformation (digital, policy, workplace, culture) and operational processes and service delivery change.

Also an EDI specialist, Kamran has also led efforts to embed a decolonial and equity-based approach to inclusion for over 8 years. He co-chaired an LGBTQ+ staff network within local government and co-chaired Proud London Councils, the pan-London LGBTQ+ Staff Network for local authorities. He is committed to amplifying the voices of the LGBTQ+ community, especially those facing multiple marginalisations. Kamran volunteers as a Director for Pride in Education, is co-founder of the Embassy Model Summits and is becoming a leading figure in the fight for intersectional LGBTIQA+ inclusion and global justice.

Khakan Qureshi: Bridging faith and identity

Khakan Qureshi is a leading voice in the South Asian LGBTQ+ community, known for his groundbreaking work as the founder of Birmingham South Asians LGBT. As a gay Muslim who has navigated the complexities of reconciling his faith with his sexual orientation, Khakan’s personal journey has become a powerful narrative of resilience and advocacy.

Khakan has not only shared his story across various platforms – from academic institutions to mainstream media – but he has also been recognized for his tireless efforts to combat both homophobia within the South Asian community and Islamophobia in the broader society. His accolades, including a British Empire Medal and the Points of Light Award from Downing Street, are a testament to his influence and impact.

His initiatives, such as the South Asian LGBT+ Conference and the Intersectionality and Islam Conference, provide critical spaces for dialogue and education, helping to foster greater understanding and acceptance. His work is not just about breaking barriers; it’s about building bridges and creating a world where everyone can live authentically and proudly.

Laks Mann: A South Asian beacon of inclusion

Laks Mann MBE is a dynamic Creative Strategist, award-winning DEI expert, and an accomplished public speaker. He is particularly recognised for his ground-breaking contributions to LGBTQ+ advocacy and community integration. Laks has enjoyed a stellar career across the corporate, charitable, and public sectors. Most notably, Laks became the UK’s first openly gay South Asian and Sikh police officer, breaking barriers and championing inclusivity within law enforcement.

Laks is a Winner in the UK’s Top 100 Influential People 2025. He was awarded an MBE in 2024 for services to charity, integration, and LGBTQ+ communities, and was also named LGBT+ Trailblazer 2024 at the British LGBTQIA+ Awards. Other accolades include being listed in the Diversity Power List 2022/23 and winning LGBT+ Positive Role Model 2020 at the National Diversity Awards. He is a Mayor of London appointed EDI Advisor, a Trustee for South Asian Heritage Month and caba, a Judge for the Inclusive Awards, and the Founder of Gaysians UK.

Parminder Sekhon: A lifelong advocate for South Asian queer visibility

As the CEO of Naz Project London, Parminder Sekhon has spent decades advocating for the rights and visibility of LGBTQ+ individuals within the South Asian community. Her journey began in the late 1990s, organizing support groups for South Asian lesbian and bisexual women – a pioneering effort at a time when such conversations were almost nonexistent.

Parminder’s dedication to this cause has seen her take on numerous roles, from publishing influential works like Red Threads to playing a vital role in the inaugural South Asian Queer Pride in Croydon. She is a steadfast voice for visibility, emphasizing the power of labels and the importance of embracing one’s identity, even when it challenges societal norms. Naz Project London, under Parminder’s leadership, addresses critical sexual health inequalities within BAME communities, providing culturally specific interventions and support. Parminder Sekhon’s unwavering commitment to this cause not only empowers individuals but also strengthens the community by fostering understanding and acceptance.

Raga D’Silva: Advocating for diverse LGBTQ+ voices

Raga D’Silva is the CEO and Co-Founder of OUTspoken Speakers, the UK’s first speaker agency dedicated to amplifying the voices of queer women and non-binary individuals. An award-winning entrepreneur, author of Untold Lies, TEDx speaker, podcast host, and prominent LGBTQ+ activist, Raga is widely recognised as a bold voice for change, particularly within South Asian communities in the UK and India.

A passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and marriage equality in India, Raga has been at the forefront of international efforts to challenge legal and cultural barriers. Her thought leadership and lived experience have earned her a place among the Top 100 Trailblazing LGBT+ Women and made her a sought-after public speaker and commentator across major media platforms, including BBC (UK and India), Sky News, ITV, Channel 4, NDTV, India Today, BBC Hindi, and numerous regional outlets.

Raga is also the co-creator and host of The Views Room, a podcast spotlighting under represented queer narratives. Now in its third season, the series continues to break new ground by centering and celebrating the lives and stories of older queer individuals.

Radhika Piramal: A corporate leader championing LGBTQ+ inclusion

Radhika Piramal is a prominent business leader and one of India’s few openly lesbian executives. As the Vice Chairperson of VIP Industries, she has not only driven the company to success but has also been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in corporate India.

Radhika’s work extends beyond her corporate role, serving on the board of GiveOut, an LGBTQ foundation, and advocating for equality and inclusion at every opportunity. Her journey as a leader and advocate is breaking new ground in India, paving the way for more inclusive practices in the corporate world.

Rakshet Sachdev: Global product strategist and diversity advocate

Rakshet Sachdev is a visionary product strategist with a knack for delivering global product roadmaps that capitalize on emerging commercial opportunities. Specializing in identifying and onboarding strategic partners, Rakshet ensures that products are not only innovative but also meet rigorous compliance standards across multiple jurisdictions.

Beyond his professional expertise, Rakshet is a dedicated advocate for Diversity and Inclusion, actively contributing to organizational goals and empowering underrepresented groups. As an ambassador for the One Young World program, Rakshet has played a pivotal role in establishing and expanding global LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Groups, driving positive change within the corporate world. His efforts in promoting inclusion and diversity make him a powerful force for progress in business and beyond.

Dr. Ranj Singh: Breaking barriers for LGBTQ+ representation

Dr. Ranj Singh, born Ranjit Singh Sangha, is a multi-faceted British doctor, television presenter, author, and LGBTQ+ advocate who has captured the hearts of many with his vibrant personality and unwavering dedication to inclusivity. A familiar face to many, Dr. Ranj is best known for his time on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, and as the co-creator and presenter of the CBeebies show Get Well Soon. His journey from an NHS clinician to a beloved TV personality is a testament to his talent, passion, and drive to make a difference.

But Dr. Ranj’s influence extends far beyond the screen. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, Dr. Ranj has been a powerful voice for representation and inclusion, particularly within South Asian and minority communities. Coming out as gay at the age of 30, he has openly shared his journey, challenging stereotypes and breaking down barriers for LGBTQ+ individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds.

Dr. Ranj’s contributions to LGBTQ+ visibility are numerous. He has graced the cover of Gay Times magazine as part of a special ‘gaysian’ celebration, and he is a regular columnist for Attitude magazine. His advocacy has earned him recognition, including the Attitude TV Award in 2019, where he highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by people of color and LGBTQ+ individuals. Dr. Ranj’s courage in living his truth and his commitment to uplifting others make him a trailblazer in every sense. His story is one of resilience, pride, and breaking boundaries. As a South Asian gay man, he continues to inspire others by showing that it’s possible to balance a successful career, personal authenticity, and advocacy for a better, more inclusive world. Whether on television, in print, or through his medical work, Dr. Ranj Singh is a shining example of how embracing one’s identity can lead to profound impact and lasting change.

Sabah Choudrey: Advocate for trans rights and South Asian representation

Sabah Choudrey is a passionate advocate for trans rights and South Asian representation, known for co-founding Trans Pride Brighton in 2013, which has since won multiple awards. With a focus on supporting queer, trans, and non-binary youth, Sabah has co-founded the Colours Youth Network and published a book on supporting BAME trans people. Their powerful TEDx talk, "Brown, Trans, Muslim and Proud," has resonated with thousands, and their global presence at pride festivals and trans organizations like TGEU and ILGA-Europe underscores their commitment to advocacy.

Based in Greater London, Sabah continues to empower communities through their work with Gendered Intelligence and as a trustee with the Inclusive Mosque Initiative. Their contributions have earned them prestigious honors like the Gay Times Future Fighters Honour and the National Advisor for LGBT Health Award, cementing their role as a leading voice in the fight for trans rights.

Saba Ali: Champion for Intersectional Justice and Queer Liberation

Saba is an award winning and distinguished advocate specialising in intersectionality, cultural abuse, and the challenges faced by marginalized communities. As a queer South Asian with lived experience of childhood trauma and discrimination, she brings deep insight into the complexities of race, gender, and sexuality. This expertise positions her as a critical friend to institutions like the Crown Prosecution Service and the Metropolitan Police Service, focusing on Hate Crime, Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), and the needs of LGBT+ Black and Brown communities.

Her work with the Metropolitan Police Service spans key forums, including the Trans and Non-Binary Forum, Domestic Abuse Victim Voices Forum, and chaired the Learning and Development Community Reference Group (CRG), she is the LGBT+ Subcategory Lead for the Police Race Action Plan CRG. Beyond law enforcement, she is a trustee for DIVA Charitable Trust, the Safety and Met Liaison Manager at UK Black Pride, Interim Chair for the Ban Conversion Therapy Coalition, LGBTQIA+ Network Lead for the Royal Society of Arts and Advisory Board Member for Centre for Prevention of Violence Against Women and Girls.

A leader in sexual health advocacy, Saba contributes to Sutton Council’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Strategy Planning and Suicide Prevention Partnership. Saba is a mentor for The Diana Award and Race for Equality’s Routes2Success, empowering the next generation of changemakers.

Saima Razzaq: Trailblazing advocate for social change and LGBTQ+ Inclusion

Saima Razzaq is an inspiring community activist and a tireless advocate for social change, with a career dedicated to empowering underrepresented communities. As the first Queer Muslim woman to lead a pride event in the UK, through her role as Director of Change and Communications at Birmingham Pride, Saima is breaking barriers and fostering inclusivity.

Her efforts in making education more inclusive for the LGBTQA+ community, especially through her co-chairing of the Supporting the Education of Equality in Schools (SEEDS) initiative, have earned her numerous accolades. Saima’s unwavering commitment to intersectionality and her tireless advocacy for equality, diversity, and inclusion are transforming communities and creating lasting change.

Seyan Sarvan: Actor and activist championing LGBTQ+ representation on stage and screen

Seyan Sarvan is a dynamic actor and passionate activist, whose work is deeply rooted in representing underrepresented communities. Born to an Indian Sikh family in Southall, Greater London, Seyan began her acting journey at just 16 and has since graced prominent London stages such as The Arcola and The Battersea Arts Centre.

Her compelling performances, including her acclaimed role as Lizbeth Farooqi in It's a Sin by Russell T Davies, have captivated audiences and critics alike. Seyan's dedication to mental health awareness and her focus on bringing minority voices to the forefront of theatre and film are evident in her diverse body of work. Through her roles and activism, Seyan is shaping the narratives on our stages and screens for LGBTQ+ people and people of colour, ensuring they reflect the rich diversity of our society.

Shamina Singh: Leading with purpose and inclusion

Shamina Singh is a powerhouse in the world of finance and social impact, currently serving as Executive Vice President of Sustainability and President of the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth. Her career is a testament to the incredible impact one can have by combining business acumen with a passion for social justice.

As a South Asian leader and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, Shamina has shattered glass ceilings and set new standards for inclusion within the corporate world. She’s been recognized among American Banker’s Most Influential Women in Payments and has earned a spot in Financial Times’ Top 100 LGBT+ Executives. Shamina’s leadership is not just about advancing equitable economic growth; it’s about ensuring that progress includes everyone, especially marginalized communities.

In 2023, Shamina brought together South Asian leaders and celebrities to celebrate the Respect For Marriage Act, marking a significant moment of solidarity for the South Asian LGBTQ+ community. Her work continues to inspire and empower, proving that when inclusion is at the forefront, everyone benefits.

Shiva Raichandani: Visionary non-binary filmmaker shaping inclusive cinema

Shiva Raichandani is a groundbreaking non-binary director, producer, and screenwriter, celebrated for their innovative approach to filmmaking. Shiva’s ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences has earned them recognition as a trailblazer in the film industry.

Their commitment to pushing boundaries and fostering inclusivity through cinema is evident in their body of work, which sparks broader conversations about identity and representation. Shiva’s artistic endeavors are not just about storytelling – they are about shaping our understanding of the world and driving social change. Their work is a testament to the transformative power of film, positioning them as a dynamic force in the industry and an inspiration to others.

Suki Sandhu OBE: Championing diverse talent and inclusive workplaces

Suki Sandhu OBE is a leading expert in sourcing exceptional diverse talent and has been a game-changer in the executive search and diversity arenas for nearly two decades. As the Founder and CEO of Audeliss and INvolve, Suki has been instrumental in leveling the playing field for women, ethnic minority, and LGBTQ+ candidates in senior leadership roles.

Under his leadership, Audeliss has made significant strides in diversifying the composition of boards and senior teams across industries. Suki’s commitment to championing diversity extends beyond recruitment; through INvolve, he drives cultural change and creates more inclusive workplaces worldwide. His contributions have been recognized globally, and his efforts continue to inspire the next generation of diverse talent. As a Stonewall Ambassador and OBE honoree, Suki’s work is making a lasting impact on the world of business and beyond.

Suraj Bhanot: Championing LGBTQ+ inclusion in pharma

Suraj Bhanot is a trailblazer in the corporate communications world, currently serving as Senior Manager at Vertex Pharmaceuticals. Based in London, Suraj brings a wealth of experience in global pharmaceutical corporate affairs, having worked on significant brand launches across Europe and the UK. But his impact goes beyond just his professional accomplishments. As a proud South Asian, Suraj is breaking barriers by championing LGBTQ+ inclusion in a traditionally conservative industry.

Since taking on the role of co-lead for Vertex’s International PRIDE employee resource network (ERN) in 2021, Suraj has been instrumental in driving the agenda for LGBTQ+ awareness and support within the company. From organizing thought-provoking panel discussions to fostering an environment of allyship and intersectionality, Suraj’s efforts ensure that every voice is heard and every identity respected.

Outside the corporate world, Suraj's passion for LGBTQ+ rights extends into his volunteer work. As a former Head of Political Engagement for Pride in London, he played a crucial role in giving a platform to London’s vibrant and diverse LGBTQ+ community. Through these roles, Suraj Bhanot is not just navigating his career; he’s paving the way for greater inclusivity in both the workplace and society.

Vaneet Mehta: Author and activist elevating the rights of queer people of color

Vaneet Mehta is a renowned author and activist whose work is making waves in the fight for bisexual visibility and the rights of queer people of color. His books, “Bisexual Men Exist” and “It Ain’t Over ’Til the Bisexual Speaks,” have become essential reads in the LGBTQ+ community. Vaneet’s advocacy extends beyond writing; he is a sought-after speaker and panellist, sharing his insights at major events and organizations like Pfizer, O2, and Bi Pride UK.

His work has been featured in prestigious publications and documentaries, bringing much-needed attention to the issues faced by bisexual individuals and queer people of color. Vaneet’s unwavering commitment to his cause and his ability to inspire change make him a leading voice in the movement for equality and inclusion.

Woosh Raza: Redefining leadership in diversity and inclusion

Woosh Raza is a pioneering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) leader who currently serves as Director of People, Culture & Inclusion at NCVO (National Council for Voluntary Organisations). A chartered fellow of the CIPD, he brings over a decade of senior HR experience across the private and public sectors, having previously held leadership roles at Phoenix Futures, Certitude, Home Group, and Priory. As the founder of Into the Orbit Consulting, Woosh provides bespoke consultancy services to help organizations transform workplace cultures and advance anti-racism initiatives.

What makes Woosh particularly impactful is his intersectional identity as an LGBTQ+ Muslim and first-generation British Pakistani professional. He brings lived experience to his DEI work, grounding strategy in authenticity and representation. Among his groundbreaking initiatives is NCVO’s move away from terms like BAME toward “global majority” language – reframing discussions of race without centering whiteness.

Woosh’s mission is clear: “to lead the way in our conversations on race and inclusivity – so that future generations aren't made to feel like a minority.” Through both his senior leadership and personal journey of embracing all aspects of his identity, Woosh represents a new generation of DEI leaders driving systemic change, dismantling racism, and combating Islamophobia in professional spaces.

Zainab Patel: Trailblazing transgender social entrepreneur

Zainab Patel is a pioneering transgender social entrepreneur and a key figure in advancing transgender rights in India. As one of the petitioners in landmark cases like the National Legal Services Authority v. Union of India, Zainab has been at the forefront of the fight for equality. In her role as Chief - Inclusion and Diversity at Pernod Ricard India, and previously at KPMG, Zainab has been instrumental in shaping inclusive policies that support the LGBTQ+ community.

Her entrepreneurial spirit shines through her initiatives in Mumbai, where she employs and empowers trans and non-binary individuals. Zainab’s dedication to health, social development, and human rights has earned her a place on the National Council for Transgender Persons and recognition as a Kamalnayan Bajaj Fellow. Her work is not just about breaking barriers – it's about building bridges towards a more inclusive society.