Discussing the Inclusive Culture at AB InBev
February 8, 2023Jessica Reddy, who works as a Key Account Manager at AB InBev, spoke to myGwork about the inclusive culture at the multinational drink and brewing company. She also provided a fascinating perspective of her experience identifying as a lesbian at University College London, and the efforts made by the university to ensure students felt respected.
Please introduce yourself, the name of your organization and the university you attended.
I am Jessica Reddy, I am currently working as a Key Account Manager at AB InBev, and I attended University College London (UCL).
Do you feel your university supported LGBTQ+ students?
Absolutely. To be honest, when I started university, I was still confused about my sexuality. However, I was very lucky that the University was a true advocate of the LGBTQ+ community, which took some pressure off my personal struggles. I chose to join the Hockey Team in my first year, and from the start, the Sports Community made a real effort to show their support for LGBTQ + rights. We had to sign a pledge in support of non-discrimination against any marginalized groups. Moreover, every PRIDE and PRIDE History month was celebrated in style e.g., specialized lectures, discussion groups and parties.
The positive attitude and inclusion of the students made the largest impact. Nonetheless, UCL ensured all students were respected and I personally believe the below highlights this:
- Free psychological support for those in need
- LGBTQ+ Networks
- All clubs and society upheld diversity and inclusion standards
- Appropriate measures were taken if there was any form of discrimination
London as a city was very progressive, but unfortunately, it was not all rainbows and sunshine. As a lesbian sometimes you can be sexualized, which is very uncomfortable and doesn’t make you feel safe. Here you can also see the intersectionality with sexism. Therefore, having the University and Sports community around made me feel safer and more supported. Overall, I feel very privileged to say being LGBTQ+ was not only normalized for me but celebrated.