Celebrating Pride

Diversity and Inclusion has been at the forefront of Capgemini’s core CSR pillars along with digital inclusion and environmental sustainability.

Recently, our colleagues at Capgemini Belgium had the opportunity to participate in two events: Launch of OUTfront and the Antwerp Pride 2023.

Launch of OUTfront initiative

Coinciding with Pride Month in June, where inclusiveness is celebrated, Capgemini Belgium launched the OUTfront initiative in its new office.

OUTfront is Capgemini’s LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group where diversity initiatives are celebrated, and a lot of efforts are being made to inspire and support the LGBTQ+ community. This initiative has been launched with the intent of creating an environment where every employee feels comfortable being themselves, their uniqueness is celebrated, and they can focus on contributing with their best ideas!

The idea is to expand the OUTfront initiatives across all business lines within Capgemini Belgium and the launch is a significant step towards achieving some remarkable milestones and achievements.

Speaking on the launch of this initiative, our colleagues shared their thoughts:

Nicolas Vande Kerckhove, Account Manager for the EU Institutions

“The launch of OUTfront Belgium with our allies and community members has been successfully completed. Let’s now start developing an internal culture of LGBTQ+ inclusion and awareness for all Capgemini employees. During the event, I organized an ice-breaker game via Kahoot where we discussed blood donation, marriage for all and the inclusion of LGBTQ+ people at the Belgian workplace.”

Vicente Puchades, Associate Manufacturing and Process Engineer, Capgemini Engineering

“It was an honor to participate in the organization of OUTfront Belgium. We aim to act as advocates for diversity in the workplace as well as raise visibility for the LGBTQ+ community. I am thankful for the interest shown by all attendees as well as our sponsors. It is with small steps that big changes are achieved!”

Saisanthosh Chanda, Test Engineer, Capgemini/Sogeti Belgium

“Organizing the OUTFront Belgium Launch, an LGBTQ+ support group, has taught us that true change begins when individuals come together, share their experiences, and lift each other up. In creating this inclusive space, we aim to foster a sense of belonging, understanding, and empowerment, as we embark on a journey of unity and acceptance. Let us remember that through collective effort and compassion, we can build a brighter, more inclusive workplace for everyone.”

The launch of this initiative is an effort to drive bigger initiatives with the D&I and LGBTQ+ communities and benefits colleagues by fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment, promoting personal and professional growth, and contributing to the organization’s success through diverse perspectives and increased employee engagement.

Check out pictures from the event here:

Make sure you show your support for the OUTfront event. Promote the message by liking our post on LinkedIn.

Antwerp Pride 2023

Capgemini Belgium had a wonderful opportunity to collaborate with several organizations and participated at the Antwerp Pride event 2023 held between 9 to 13 August. The theme for this year was Braveolution, the key message being to allow everyone outside the LGBTQ+ to have the courage to stand up for a more inclusive society.

Our colleagues had an opportunity to join the event representing Capgemini Belgium and had a chance to interact and engage in inspiring conversations and workshops at the event.

“Participating in the Antwerp Pride reinforced the importance of promoting inclusivity and diversity within our company.

It’s not just about supporting one specific community. It’s more about embracing diversity in all its forms, whether it is related to gender, sexuality, or any other aspect of identity. By sharing my experience, I hope to encourage more open discussions and initiatives that contribute to a more inclusive workplace.” – Nicolas Vande Kerckhove

“I am honored to participate in Antwerp Pride as a representative of Capgemini, promoting a vision where diversity is celebrated, not merely tolerated, and where each person is empowered to showcase their individual brilliance. This event provides a platform for us to unite in solidarity, rejoicing in love, diversity, and equality, while embracing the wonderful spectrum of our rainbow community.” – Saisanthosh Chanda

You can check out the pictures from the Antwerp Pride event here:

Interested in joining the OUTfront network or have any questions? Feel free to connect with Nicolas Vande Kerckhove, Saisanthosh Chanda or Vicente Puchades.