🌈LGBTQ+ in the service industry - Judith Rivero

The hospitality industry has been a LGBTQ+ community supporter and top employment sector for years and it globally recognises the need to change the way employers operate globally in order to be more diverse. This series of interviews will be looking into the career and inspirations of top industry leaders/figures to celebrate one of the most diverse employment sectors. 

Judith Rivero, Talent Development Manager – Sticks'n'Sushi 

What does “diversity” mean to you? 

It means we are all different and we love that. Diversity is a must, not an option; a non-negotiable 24/7.

Do you have recommendations for any LGBTQ+ people entering the employment/business world who might face situations of discrimination? 

Same recommendation in or out of the community really: Be you! Speak up. Ensure you are working for organisations that live up to their values and surround yourself with positive vibes. Keep moving until you find the sweet spot.

Has anything in your professional career (or maybe personal life) that has made you think or say, “let’s change this for the community?” 

A few to be honest, but let’s go for…Uniforms! Many of our policies in hospitality are still ‘old fashion’. How people feel when they are at work is key- we have the power to change things, even simple ones like our work uniforms. How about thinking of diversity when we design our uniforms? let’s make a few different ones and let employees CHOOSE. 

What do you think could improve for the LGBTQ+ community in the employment world?

Particularly in HR, we need to move away from ‘one fits all’ policies and procedures. We need to work with our business leaders to keep embracing diversity and act when there is none. We need to share and reinforce diversity leading by example, 

Support those who need it and move away from labels! 

LGBTQ+ community, you are very much loved! 💜

If you would like to take part as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, get in touch with Krishnan (krishnan@corecruitment.com)