FIIB Hosts ‘Beyond Labels: Towards Pride and Progress’ to Champion LGBTQIA++ Inclusion

In a powerful display of solidarity and commitment to inclusivity, FIIB recently hosted an impactful event titled “Beyond Labels: Towards Pride and Progress.” Organized by the FIIB Girl Up Club in collaboration with Girl Up India and Breaking Barriers at Tagore International School, Vasant Vihar, the event marked a significant moment in the institution’s ongoing efforts to foster a more inclusive environment for all, emphasizing the importance of LGBTQIA++ inclusion.

Welcome and Opening Remarks

The event, held in FIIB’s newly inaugurated auditorium, began with a warm welcome from Sakshi Pandey and Bhavna Sharma, Senior Co-Heads of the FIIB Girl Up Club. They introduced the theme, emphasizing the importance of moving beyond societal labels and embracing authenticity. “It’s about celebrating the courage to live our truth, the resilience to overcome barriers, and the progress we’ve made in creating a world where everyone is accepted and valued for who they are,” they said, reinforcing the need for diversity and LGBTQIA++ inclusion.

Commitment to Inclusivity and Milestones

Highlighting FIIB’s commitment to inclusivity, Sakshi Pandey shared her experience of working closely with the transgender community during her social internship, which deepened her understanding of inclusivity and gender equality. The event also celebrated the sixth anniversary of the decriminalization of Section 377 in India, with speakers reflecting on the progress made and the work that still lies ahead in achieving true equality and transgender rights within the LGBTQIA++ community.

Keynote Address by Dr. Kokil Jain

FIIB’s Dean of Research & Outreach, Dr. Kokil Jain, delivered the keynote address, focusing on the institution’s dedication to societal impact through its alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). Dr. Jain underscored FIIB’s contributions to Goals #4 (Quality Education), #5 (Gender Equality), #8 (Decent Work & Economic Growth), and #9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). She also highlighted FIIB’s SDG Dashboard, which tracks and showcases the institution’s initiatives in these areas, making it the fourth B-school in India and 31st globally to maintain an individual SDG Dashboard updated annually. This underscores the institution’s commitment to fostering a truly inclusive environment. For more details on how FIIB is driving change through its societal impact initiatives, visit our societal impact page.

Interactive Workshop and Panel Discussion

The event featured an interactive workshop led by members of Breaking Barriers and Girl Up FIIB, designed to deepen participants’ understanding of the LGBTQIA++ community’s experiences. This was followed by a panel discussion moderated by Anushka Maheshwary, a queer and non-binary professional with extensive experience in gender studies and social action.

Panelist Insights

• Shaman Gupta, co-founder of Mysfit Trans Youth Foundation, shared insights on the unique challenges faced by transgender youth and the importance of creating safe spaces that empower them to thrive. His work is pivotal in advancing transgender rights within the broader context of LGBTQIA++ inclusion.
• Yash Sharma, founder of Official Humans of Queer, discussed the power of storytelling in breaking stereotypes and fostering empathy, highlighting his work in amplifying queer voices through digital media. His efforts underscore the significance of diversity in narratives that promote LGBTQIA++ inclusion.
• Rajasekharan Pazhaniappan, co-founder of v-shesh, an organization known for its efforts in enabling inclusive employment, provided a corporate perspective on how businesses can lead the way in supporting LGBTQIA++ individuals through inclusive policies and practices. His insights into fostering an inclusive environment within workplaces highlight the need for systemic changes to support diversity.
• Rudrani Chettri, a founder member of Mitr Trust, shared her journey and the critical role of community support in the lives of transgender individuals, advocating for greater visibility and rights for the community. Her advocacy efforts are crucial for advancing gender equality and securing transgender rights.

The discussion provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA++ community and the importance of fostering an inclusive society that respects and celebrates diversity.

Conclusion and Felicitation

The event concluded with a felicitation ceremony for the panelists, with special acknowledgments extended to Ms. Aditi Arora from Girl Up India and Ms. Priyanka Randhawan from Tagore International School. The day ended on a reflective note, reminding attendees that the fight for equality is ongoing and that inclusion goes beyond policy—it’s about changing hearts and minds to truly support LGBTQIA++ inclusion.

Final Words

Sakshi and Bhavna expressed gratitude to all the participants, speakers, and organizers for making the event a success. They reiterated FIIB’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of inclusivity and creating a future where everyone can live authentically, without fear or prejudice.

As FIIB continues to align its efforts with the UNSDGs and champion the cause of diversity and LGBTQIA++ inclusion, events like “Beyond Labels: Towards Pride and Progress” serve as vital platforms for dialogue, education, and action. They are not just celebrations but commitments to building a more inclusive environment and society for all, with a focus on gender equality and transgender rights. To learn more about how FIIB is driving societal impact.