Free to be me: Celebrating 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, embodying the spirit of this year's theme, 'Free to be me.'

Here, in alphabetical order, are 24 of the many South Asian trailblazers who are transforming their communities and industries through their unwavering dedication to LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion:

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 dynamic South Asian Creative Consultant, Writer, and Researcher, whose work is transforming the landscape of diversity and inclusion. As the co-founder of InterconnectedUK, Anick is leading efforts to create positive change for individuals with diverse sex characteristics. His multidisciplinary approach combines law, social work, and psychology, allowing him to craft compelling narratives that celebrate diversity and human rights.

Anick’s passion for inclusion extends beyond his professional endeavors. He’s actively involved in National Student Pride and is working on his first collection of children's stories that reflect his commitment to inclusive storytelling. Anick's voice is a vital part of the movement towards a world where everyone, regardless of their identity, is celebrated and respected.

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 seasoned leader in the investment management industry, where he’s known for his dedication to diversity and inclusion. As the co-founder of InterInvest, an LGBT+ Allies network for the investment sector, Deon has worked tirelessly to create inclusive environments within a traditionally conservative industry. His work has earned him numerous awards as a DEI Champion.

Beyond his professional achievements, Deon is an accredited life coach, helping others navigate their own journeys towards inclusion. His passion for creating workplaces where everyone feels valued is inspiring, and his leadership continues to drive positive change in the industry.

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.

Their leadership roles, including as President of UN-GLOBE, highlight their commitment to making the world a better place for LGBTQ+ individuals. Gurchaten’s work has been recognized with numerous awards, making them a leading voice in the global fight for equality.

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.

Kamran Khan: Transforming organizations with a focus on inclusion

Kamran Khan is a Business and Workforce Transformation Consultant who has dedicated over a decade to advocating for LGBTQ+ inclusion and equity. His work spans multiple sectors, including healthcare, education, and government, where he specializes in integrating anti-racist practices and supporting LGBTQ+ staff networks.

Kamran’s efforts have helped create more inclusive workplaces, particularly within local government and the charity sector. His commitment to amplifying marginalized voices and driving systemic change makes him a crucial figure in the ongoing fight for social justice.

Laks Mann: A South Asian beacon of inclusion

Laks Mann is a leading figure in diversity and inclusion, with a career that spans corporate, charitable, and public sectors. As the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Advisor to the Mayor of London and a Trustee for South Asian Heritage Month, Laks is dedicated to creating a more equitable society. His work with Gaysians UK further highlights his commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ South Asians.

Laks’s contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including the LGBT+ Positive Role Model Award. His journey is an inspiring example of how one can use their platform to drive meaningful change and support marginalized communities.

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.

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.

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.