Allyship Through The Ages: LGBT+ Allyship Through History

Andrew is a senior consultant within the technology risk practice at EY, alongside co-chairing the Manchester Unity network (LGBTQ+ staff network). Prior to working at EY, he worked in the data security, privacy and records management department in a public sector health organization. He is a firm believer in inclusion and the power of allyship.

Sophie-Mae is an Audit Support Associate at EY with a background in LGBTQ history, holding a master’s degree in Contemporary History (University of Birmingham, 2022). She is passionate about sharing LGBTQ stories and connecting both the community and its allies with their history, reclaiming narratives to inspire the next generation.

Emily is a Senior Consultant within EY’s Business Consulting team, and the Manchester Co-Lead for Unity, EY’s LGBT+ network. She is passionate about all types of inclusion, and in her role she regularly organises and attends events that bring members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies together in an inclusive and safe environment.

Joanne is the Global Head of Inclusion & Culture at DLA Piper. Previously Joanne was a DE&I Leader at EY and is a passionate advocate for equity and social justice. With over a decade of experience in the Inclusion & Culture space and her unique blend of personal experience and expertise, she drives transformative and meaningful change.  Joanne is a school governor, a guest lecturer, and international speaker.  Joanne is committed to contributing to academia and solving complex business problems through a doctorate on the topic of privilege and inclusion in relation to Class, Race, and Gender.

Author of ‘Visible Justice: An LGBTQ+ Inclusivity Handbook,’ Christopher holds a PhD in systemic oppression and has published articles in intersectionality, feminism, social change, and queer resistance. They are writing a book on anti-oppression for Routledge. At Manchester Pride they deliver the All Equals Charter, an intersectional LGBTQ+ inclusion programme.

Emma is Co-Chair for Unity (LGBT+) Network at EY. Her day job is a Director and Chartered Management Consultant in EY’s consulting service line. Focusing on Financial Crime transformation where she has 15+ years’ experience. She is passionate about transforming Financial Crime operations and processes to be technology and data driven, agile and human centric. Bringing a DE&I lens to support clients transform their organisations. Emma is a keen runner and lives in Sevenoaks, Kent with her wife Claire and Golden Retriever Peanut!

Graham Wright is a Partner at EY, based in the North West, with a real passion for the firms focus on culture and belonging.