Celebrating #WorkingWithPride at WorkPride: Wolfgang Schmitt

myGwork member Wolfgang Schmitt, who won the WorkPride Virgin Cruise prize last year, shares the many benefits of attending WorkPride's five day global virtual conference and why he’s returned as an active participant this year.

Hi Wolfgang, can you share a bit about career to date and why you returned to WorkPride this year?

Originally from Germany, I ended up in Indianapolis by way of the Netherlands, California, Ireland and Florida. I've worked in a wide variety of industries, from global companies to small family-run businesses. But one thing has been a constant – I've always been privileged enough to be able to be out at work. In fact, at one job it was later disclosed to me that being honest about my sexual orientation during the interview was a factor in me being chosen for the role. When I saw the early invites for WorkPride returning I cleared as much space on my schedule as I could. Such an amazing, energizing event bringing together a truly global community! And all without leaving the house or office!

What’s been your favorite panel this year so far and why?

There have been so many. Each panel brings value. Learning about the experience of LGBTQ people from the Middle East & North Africa has been eye opening. The Bi-inclusion and trans focused panels were amazing. The daily early morning/afternoon/evening keynotes from the corporate sponsors are also great. Fantastic to see companies be involved and do more than swapping their logo to a rainbow version on June 1!

What were your main takeaways from last year’s event?

The great thing about WorkPride is the wide variety of perspectives from so many voices with different experiences. The main takeaway for me is that despite the dawn of setbacks against the wider LGBT community, my privilege as a White, cis man makes it more important than ever to let other voices shine, but also to stand up for them when they can't.

You won many prizes last year, including the Virgin Cruise. Can you share the best highlights of your WorkPride experience last year, including your trip?

Of course, going on a cruise thanks to the generosity of myGwork was a highlight of the year! For a moment it looked like I wouldn't even be able to go, but then a project at work got delayed and I got to make the most of it and cross an item off my bucket list. I took a transatlantic voyage from Barcelona to Miami! 15 wonderful, unforgettable days! Really an amazing experience.

Would you recommend colleagues and professionals to attend WorkPride and why?

I actually did (yesterday)! My company, a credit union in Indianapolis, appointed a DEI officer last year and I shared the insights from Michi's Gen Z panel with them; and talked about WorkPride and myGwork in general. I think as with many LGBTQ+-centered events, straight people, allies or not, think it is not for them or doesn't add value to their day. But the opposite is true – the time to get involved is now.