Be You Stories

Devin Gohil

(he/him)

I’m Devin, I’ve been part of the NEXT image retouch team for almost a year.

Since joining I’ve been actively encouraged to bring my most authentic, bright and creative self to work, enabling me to make unique contributions to my team and progress into an exciting new role only 5 months into my journey at NEXT. Many of my colleagues are also amazing creative wizards outside of work and they inspire me to be just that bit more bolder, creative and colourful. Seeing Pride at NEXT representing at Leicester Pride 2023 felt incredibly warming and I’m looking forward to joining in the fun this year!

Jade Smith-Dunhill

(she/her/they/them)

I started at the company in December and have been made to feel welcome by everyone I have met. My team has been amazing since day one and made me feel a part of it without hesitation. Even those that I have never spoken to before, smile and say hello when walking past, I have never felt so welcome anywhere before, it’s brilliant.

I haven’t felt the need to hide any part of myself, whether that be religious beliefs, health issues, personal style, sexuality or any part of my personality. I have never worked for a company so open and friendly, it makes me happy to be here every day.

Sky Lester

(she/her)

When I discovered I was transfeminine about a year ago, it remoulded how I, the powers that be, and society view each other. It was not an easy time for me, and I had to take multiple weeks off of work to emotionally figure myself out well enough to return.

And when I sat down and looked at how transgender people are seen today, especially by vocal minorities... it shook me to my core. I feel the term 'Orwellian' fits here well. A small minority of people have the say, and view, of how a vastly larger group acts, behaves, and lives. And yet, when I walk into work, that is the complete opposite of what I see, and what I feel.

When I'm working my shift, I have the confidence and trust of those around me that I can feel safe, secure, and able to express myself for who I am. When I'm working my shift, my colleagues are fully understanding and accepting of who I am, regardless of how I may outwardly appear or behave. When I'm working my shift, my mind is free from the distractions and deterrents of modern society, because I'm accepted. When I'm working my shift, I know the company I'm working for understands what I may be experiencing outside of the workplace, and invests time and effort ensuring that I, other LGBTQIA+ members, and allies alike, always have a safe and secure space that we can reach out to. If I had to describe my working environment in three words, they would be: Accepting, Understanding, Loving.

If anything, I would like to credit my work environment with giving me the confidence to explore my identity and try new things without fear of being judged or discriminated for just being myself. If it wasn't for work, I would've spent a lot more time struggling with going out in public and getting comfortable wearing what I wanted to wear. That process was almost entirely eliminated at work. I feel one of the main barriers to accepting those who are LGBTQIA+ has been conquered, at least with my colleagues. And that barrier is understanding. Once one understands something new, they will have a better appreciation and acceptance for that new thing, and everyone will have a better experience overall. I feel this sentiment of understanding should spread not just through NEXT as a company, but across society as a collective...

“Perhaps one did not want to be loved so much as to be understood.” - George Orwell

Paul Burgin

(he/him)

I've been in my current role as a picker/packer at DVB for almost two years, and I loooove it! I've worked for NDL since 2010, in various roles at four sites.

Even though I have to wear long shorts, the hot conditions make it permissible to wear a vest top, and this is enough for me to be able to express myself as who I want to be! Also, having my hair tied back allows me to show off my colourful ear studs!

As for my career, I'm rapidly approaching retirement, and this role has allowed me to stay active in a great social environment.

I feel very welcomed and supported at work. Naturally, there are those who feel uncomfortable with my "trans extra energy", but my many friends among my colleagues at DVB make up for that. It's a wonderful place to be trans!

Rena Armstrong

(she/her)

Our inclusive working environment offers a sense of belonging where I feel not only accepted but celebrated for who I am.

Pride at NEXT has empowered me to pursue some amazing campaigns where I have been able to utilise my design skills within three pride collections, fantastic events such as
Leeds and Leicester Pride and develop our Pride at NEXT site and Monthly emails!

Adam Copeland

(he/him)

NEXT is a safe space for me to network with the community and allies and be up to date on the latest things in the business and discuss various topics and concerns we may have. It’s the first time any company I’ve been a part of did something like this which has left a positive impact on me as an individual.

Andrina Jones

(she/her)

For me as a mum of a trans woman, I love this network. It does make a difference to me to I know you are all supporting one another as it can be lonely if you are newly out.

I wear the rainbow lanyard, with several other pride badges on it and often an ally pin(even though some people then think it’s my name).

It has led to me having some amazing encounters with
members of the LGBTQ+ community and their supporters.

I will continue being a visible supporter both in work and out and I give great mum hugs.

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