United in diversity: Aurelie Kamayah on celebrating her community with PRIDE

Everyone’s experience navigating the workplace as a member of the 2SLGBTQI+ community is unique, so fostering an inclusive culture is very important. That’s why Sovereign supports the ‘Proud of You’ ERG (Employee Resource Group). In June, the ERG hosted a 2024 PRIDE panel, themed: “United in Diversity: Celebrated Our Community with PRIDE.”

The panel explored the 2SLGBTQI+ experience in the workplace and in greater society. The ERG hosted in-person gatherings at several locations across Canada and livestreamed the event for those who chose to participate online. The in-person gatherings included celebrations and networking opportunities before and after the panel discussion.

 Aurelie Kamayah (she/her), Senior Underwriter, Technology and Cyber, at Sovereign Insurance, a member of the ERG and a panelist on the 2024 PRIDE panel, shares her experience of being 2SLGBTQI+ in the workplace, how she got involved with the ERG, and how workplaces can support diverse communities.

Looking back on your journey, what are some key life lessons you’ve learned so far?

I didn’t start enjoying life to the fullest until I was comfortable with who I was—and when I understood that the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms was put in place to protect me. But I know I’m lucky that my family accepts and loves me for who I am. Not everyone was brought up the same way I was. That’s why it’s important for me to keep advocating for equality and inclusivity so that everyone can feel free to be who they are.

Did you experience any challenges showing up as your authentic self at work?

At the beginning, when I was exploring my sexual orientation, I wasn’t sure how to answer personal questions at work like, “Do you have a boyfriend? Do you want to get married? Do you want to have kids?” We’ve become so accustomed to answers that relate to the status quo: a nuclear heterosexual family with kids. It didn’t feel normal to say, “I’m a lesbian, I have a partner,” until I became more comfortable with my own sexuality.

Why did you get involved in the ‘Proud of You’ ERG?

With my educational background in social sciences and political science, I felt I could contribute my experiences and views—and hopefully inspire or help educate others. It’s given me an opportunity to connect with other members who are openly gay and who have overcome challenges in life and work to be open and honest about their sexuality. I’ve made new friends, I’ve been given the opportunity to share my views on an internal national platform, and I’ve learned quite a bit myself on issues relating to our community.

How can workplaces better support people who identify as part of the 2SLGBTQI+ community?

It’s important to create safe spaces and plan events geared towards the community, such as supporting activities during PRIDE. It’s also important to keep the lines of communication open with all employees and incentivize leaders and employees to use non-oppressive language in the workplace. For those who want to be an ally, educate yourself. When you educate yourself, you end up educating others. When you show up for one marginalized person, you show up for many marginalized people and groups.

What does PRIDE mean to you?

It means to love in peace.

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Learn more about how Sovereign is championing DEI initiatives and how you can join the diversity and inclusion journey.