Patricia Valloni, Manager, Marketing Lead, Avanade Brazil

I became a member of our Prism LGBT+ Employee Resource Group because I believe that all people deserve equal opportunity regardless of their sexual orientation, and this is a subject that needs to be openly discussed. Brazil is seen as a very open-minded country, but it is not. The prejudice, even if unconscious, is in our day to day. Today we have almost 30 people at Avanade Brazil who come together to discuss and to take actions that help us to practice the commitments of a more inclusive society – a society that recognizes the rights of the LGBT+ community.

Deirdre McIntosh, Director, Regional Capability Lead, Australia

I choose to be an ally as it aligns with my values. We should all be treated without prejudice regardless of how we live our lives. Using this approach   in my life, I find it brings out the best in people and leads to a more harmonious and productive environment.

Lucy Cilia, Analyst, Avanade Advisory, Australia

Starting a new career is a daunting chapter for everyone, and as a graduate fresh from university, it can be even more so. For myself, the culture and   diversity of the organisation I was to begin my career with was a really important consideration. I wanted to be surrounded by a diverse group of   people who fostered a culture of inclusion and knowledge sharing. More importantly, I wanted to work in an environment where the people were   happy and could be themselves.

It’s my third month now as a graduate at Avanade, and it’s safe to say that I’ve been impressed by how inclusive and diverse the organisation is. In   three months alone, the Melbourne office (along with the others) have celebrated women’s rights, cultural diversity and the LGBTQI community. The   people I have met come from all sides of the world and share the same values around the importance of health and well-being at work. It’s a great   feeling knowing that I’m starting my career in an organisation that takes the diversity and well-being of their people so seriously, and I look forward to being a part of this inclusive community for the years to come.

Priscilla Donegan , Senior Director, Marketing, United States