Unconvention September 2022 (Increasing LGBTIQ+ Representation In the Boardroom)

What an incredible Unconvention we had!

Thank you to all the directors and organisations who came along to stretch their knowledge and understanding at our Unconvention on increasing LGBTIQA+ Representation in the Boardroom.

WA Cricket CEO, Christina Matthews definitely captivated and challenged our audience with stories and examples of the benefits of diversity in action. From making changes at AGMs, to ensuring new buildings are responsive to community needs. Christina is a shining example of the success that can come from cultivating diversity on boards and in management.

Ashara Wills, current ELGP participant and founder of Let’s Queer the Air shared a range of practical actions that boards can undertake to build an inclusive culture. This presentation spurred on great discussions around the room during our roundtable session.

Insights from our Roundtable discussion was JAM PACKED with interesting thoughts and experiences on how to increase LGBTIQ+ representation in the boardroom.  We can improve pathways onto boards through:

• Genuine interest, support, advocacy, investment from the board
• Connecting with a diverse range of organisations and actively engaging in their events
• Supporting equitable, representative board membership
• Increasing visability – badges, language, pronouns, flags
• Considering sitting fees that support the involvement of people who might not have the financial backing to volunteer
• Include LGBTIQA+ education and training opportunities for staff and board
• Be mentors, advocate, nominate, encourage people to put forward for board roles

Thank you to our Roundtable facilitators, Conrad Liveris and ELGP Alumni, Karess Dias, Annika Htun and Christine Gibson.

NFP Boards have a long way to go before we see greater LGBTIQ+ representation on boards but this was a great step in the right direction!

Thanks to all participants for your questions, comments and contributions in making this event a success!

Last but not least, thank you to our Community Partners. Without our Community Partners, we wouldn’t be able to do this. They are incredible organisations offering financial and in kind support!