"Diversity doesn't end with you." – A conversation about power, privilege, and true allyship
- Anna Stella
- Oct 18
- 3 min read
What does it truly mean to be an ally? Not just during Pride Month, but all year round. What does it mean to take responsibility – even when it gets uncomfortable? These are precisely the questions explored in a conversation with Isabelle Hoyer, co-founder of PANDA, and Stuart Bruce Cameron, CEO of the UHLALA Group and organizer of STICKS & STONES, Europe's largest LGBTIQ+ career fair. Honest, critical, and with great empathy, they reflect on personal experiences, change, and intersectional diversity in leadership.
"I am gay – therefore discriminated against. And yet: a white cis man."
Isabelle:
Stuart, we co-founded PANDA, a network for female executives. Today you're CEO of the UHLALA Group and, among other things, you organize STICKS & STONES, Europe's largest LGBTIQ+ career fair. What has changed for you, and what has stayed the same?
Stuart:
My perspective has changed. Initially, I was convinced I was already on the "right side." After all, I'm gay myself, so I experience discrimination. But what I didn't see back then was that I'm still a white cis man. And that brings privileges, even in marginalized communities. What has remained is my desire to empower people who are too often overlooked. I used to think that simply giving them a platform was enough. Now I know you also have to ensure who actually gets on stage and who is allowed to speak.
Responsibility means making room
Isabelle:
You helped build a network for women with Panda, but today you consciously take a step back from it. Why?
Stuart:
Because I did it wrong at the beginning. I was the first one on stage, I liked being in the spotlight, but I didn't understand that PANDA wasn't supposed to be about me. I had to learn what real space means. Today I understand: Anyone who is part of a privileged group—and yes, that includes white gay men—has to learn when it's time to make room . And yet, PANDA is still a part of my heart. I'm proud of every woman who's making her way there. I'm happy to support them, just not in the spotlight anymore.
Pride is not a logo – it's an attitude
Isabelle:
Many companies celebrate Pride in June. But what remains of it in July?
Stuart:
Too often: nothing. A flag on the logo isn't change. Many queer employees prefer to remain silent because they know: the brand celebrates Pride, but their leadership isn't safe. Diversity is often seen as mere decoration, not as a core principle. And I, too, have had to learn: just because I experience discrimination doesn't automatically mean I'm doing everything right. I didn't see why so few women came to our events until I understood: we were n't reaching out to them, inviting them, or valuing them . Today, the percentage of women, trans, intersex, and non-binary individuals (FLINTA*) at STICKS & STONES is almost 50%. This didn't happen by chance, but through listening and learning.
Being against discrimination is not enough
Isabelle:
What do you think people in leadership positions need to understand when it comes to LGBTIQ+ or intersectional diversity?
Stuart:
It's not enough to be against discrimination. Those in positions of responsibility must consider: Who am I supporting? Who is being overlooked? Who doesn't dare to show up? And that you're not automatically "woke" just because you've experienced discrimination yourself. I know many in the LGBTQ+ community who fight for themselves, but not for others. True allyship means recognizing your own privileges . Recognizing: I have advantages, and I can use them. Not for myself, but for others.
"Mistakes are okay. Silence is not."
Isabelle:
What would you like to say to women in leadership positions today when it comes to queer visibility?
Stuart:
I would say: Diversity doesn't end with you. Just because you, as a woman, fight against barriers doesn't mean you automatically speak for everyone. Look, listen, and ask yourself who you're overlooking . And I would say: Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Mistakes are okay, silence isn't. Those who lead can't afford to be complacent.
🌈 Save the Date – and be there!
Whether for networking, getting inspired or simply celebrating true diversity: STICKS & STONES is more than a career fair – it is a place for encounters, empowerment and visibility.
📅 June 21, 2025 📍 Arena Berlin, Eichenstraße 4, 12435 Berlin 🔗 Info & Tickets: www.sticks-and-stones.com
Show yourself. Show your attitude. Be there.
