Positive Role Models: An Interview with Chloe Davie

myGwork spoke to Chloe Davies, Global LGBTQ+ Inclusion & Belonging Consultant, who was recently nominated for a National Diversity Award.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your career so far?

What would you like to know?! I’m a Black Bisexual woman, Mum of 2 and a mental health survivor.

I started in retail as a Saturday only assistant and worked my way up to a Country Manager before leaving after 16 years to start my own business in 2015. I then found out I was pregnant with my first son Miles, and the dynamics of my career completely changed. It really made me think about the world my son would be growing up in and I started to volunteer and work within the LGBTQ+ community.

Congratulation on being nominated for National Diversity Awards ‘Positive Role Model’ Award, what does this nomination mean to you?

Oh it means everything! It has been humbling and wonderful to read why people have nominated me for this award. I am grateful for the support from the community

Did you have any positive LGBTQI+ role models growing up?

Not when I was growing up, they weren’t often on screen but as I have grown older and looked for and to my community, I have found amazing and inspirational people from whom I learn every day.

What does a positive role model mean to you?

I’ll be honest, I don’t think there is a perfect role model so being seen in that light makes me uncomfortable, I am a person trying to bring about positive change for my community with my community alongside me.

What role do you think role models play in the fight for LGBTQI+ equality?

Having visible figures in our community who are speaking on our issues in all of their facets, who ask the hard questions, but who also hold those to account who would discriminate or cause harm to LGBTQI+ people, are everything. When we see ourselves in this way it gives us the strength and courage to be more and to do more.

What would you say is the biggest obstacle you've faced in your journey?

I still continue to face obstacles, I think as human beings this is part of our journey. There was a point in my life several years ago that I was caused harm by those within my own community, where I was made to feel like I didn’t matter and this really had an impact on my mental wellbeing. I am still healing but I was able to find my chosen family from it and for that, I am truly grateful.

Is there any advice you would give to your younger self?

There is so much I would tell myself, mostly just to continue to believe in yourself, you’re amazing, I love you so much and the skills you are building now will do so much in the future so keep growing.

What would you like to say to the people that have helped you achieve this recognition?

THANK YOU!! – From the bottom of my heart!

What do you hope to see next in the journey for LGBTQI+ equality?

A day where we are all free but until then we continue to fight for all of us.

Vote for Chloe in the National Diversity Awards.

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