LGBTIQA+ Leadership Summit 2025

Pre-Conference Workshop | 11th November

09:00AM - 4:00PM 

Leading With Intersectionality: Embracing All of Who You Are

Our identities are not one-dimensional—and neither is the bias we face. For LGBTIQA+ leaders, the intersections of gender, race, class, disability, neurodivergence, and culture shape how we show up, how we’re seen, and how we lead. This workshop creates a safe, powerful space to unpack these layers and explore how embracing your full self can be a source of strength—not limitation.

This workshop is designed for LGBTIQA+ professionals who want to build awareness of their own intersections, explore how bias  and privilege operate in the workplace, and develop leadership strategies rooted in authenticity, inclusion, and self-empowerment.  Through deep reflection, peer learning, and practical tools, you’ll walk away with greater clarity on your leadership identity—and the confidence to lead in a way that honours every part of who you are.

This workshop will cover:

Quick overview

• Understand mentoring and how it contributes to leadership success and career growth
• Overcoming the imposter syndrome that often affects new mentors
• Becoming a mentor and how it benefits both the community and your leadership
• Resources to support both mentors and mentees in their growth

What You’ll Gain:

• Greater clarity on your unique leadership identity
• Confidence to embrace all aspects of who you are—without code-switching or compromise
• Frameworks to navigate bias and build empathy across difference
• A supportive peer network of other LGBTIQA+ leaders navigating similar journeys

Conference Day One | 12th November

09:05 Opening Remarks from the Chair

Dana Lightbody is the CEO of The Leadership Institute. She is a staunch advocate of equality for women in business and believes women should be helping other women every chance they get. Dana established Konnect Learning in 2013 and the Leadership Institute in 2017. Since then she has advocated for equality for women in all aspects of her entrepreneurial and professional life – in particular by chairing and assisting the production team in the development of TLI’s Women in Leadership line of events

Session 1: 09:20AM Creating Cultures of Belonging That Move Beyond Inclusion

Learn how leaders are transforming workplace culture by embedding belonging into policies,  systems, and team dynamics. This session explores the difference between surface-level inclusion and true equity. Gain tools to cultivate spaces where all voices are not just welcomed, but valued.

10:10 AM: It’s Time.....for Networking!

10:30 AM: Morning Tea

Session 2: 11:00 AM The Strength of Allyship and Advocacy from the Top

True inclusion begins with leadership that is visible, committed, and accountable. In this session, Joshua shares how embracing diversity has shaped their leadership approach and created real cultural impact across a large organisation. Diversity strengthens teams, builds trust, and fuels innovation. But making space for LGBTIQA+ voices requires more than support behind closed doors. It calls for public advocacy, honest reflection, and a willingness to challenge the status quo.

This session will offer practical guidance on leading inclusively, building psychologically safe environments, and becoming the kind of ally who lifts others as they lead.

Session 3: 11:50 AM STANDING PROUD: Identity, Resilience and Authentic Leadership

Anthony Callea, celebrated for his powerful vocals and as one of Australia’s most recognized singers, takes us on an intimate journey beyond the stage. From his meteoric rise on Australian Idol to navigating the complexities of fame, Anthony shares the personal challenges and triumphs that have shaped his two-decade-long career. Drawing from his memoir, Behind the Voice, he offers candid reflections on overcoming public scrutiny, embracing his true self, and the resilience required to maintain authenticity in the entertainment industry.

Attendees will gain profound insights into balancing personal identity with public expectations and the courage it takes to remain genuine amidst external pressures. This keynote promises a heartfelt exploration of identity, perseverance, and the power of staying true to oneself.

12:50 PM: Lunch

Session 4: 01:50 PM Reckoning with Identity and Becoming an Advocate

Anthony Venn-Brown’s journey from a high-profile Pentecostal preacher to an openly gay man and respected LGBTQ+ advocate is a testament to resilience and transformation. In this compelling session, Anthony shares his personal narrative of confronting internal conflicts between faith and sexuality, enduring harmful conversion practices, and ultimately embracing his authentic self. He delves into the challenges of navigating two often opposing worlds and the process of becoming a bridge-builder for others facing similar struggles.

Attendees will gain insights into the power of vulnerability, the importance of creating

Session 5: 2:40 PM Creating Psychologically Safe Cultures Through EQ-Informed Leadership

Drawing on her global experience and leadership role across Amazon companies, Cindy Schwartz will share how emotional intelligence (EQ) can be used to build psychologically safe  and high-performing workplaces. She’ll explore how leaders can foster trust, belonging and  resilience—especially in diverse teams. With practical insights and stories from the field, Cindy will unpack the everyday behaviours that create inclusive cultures where everyone can thrive.

3:30 PM: Afternoon Tea

Session 6: 3:50 PM COMEDIC ACTIVISM: Fighting Hate One Joke at a Time

Dubbed Australia’s ‘Crown Prince of Comedy’, Joel Creasey has carved a niche with his sharp wit and fearless storytelling. In this engaging fireside chat, Joel delves into his journey from a  15-year-old aspiring comedian to a national sensation, co-hosting Australia’s top-rated drive show and gracing international stages. He’ll discuss the transformative power of humour in addressing societal issues, sharing how comedy became his tool for advocacy and connection. 

Joel will also reflect on personal anecdotes, including the challenges of coming out at 16, navigating the entertainment industry, and the role of authenticity in leadership. Attendees can expect an unfiltered conversation filled with humour, heartfelt moments, and actionable insights on leveraging one’s unique voice to inspire and lead.

4:50 PM: End of Day One & Networking Drinks

Wrap up an inspiring day with drinks and conversation. Continue connecting with speakers and peers in a relaxed setting.

Conference Day Two | 13th November

09:05 OPENING REMARKS FROM THE CHAIR

Dana Lightbody is the CEO of The Leadership Institute. She is a staunch advocate of equality for women in business and believes women should be helping other women every chance they get. Dana established Konnect Learning in 2013 and the Leadership Institute in 2017. Since then she has advocated for equality for women in all aspects of her entrepreneurial and professional life – in particular by chairing and assisting the production team in the development of TLI’s Women in Leadership line of events

Session 1: 09:10AMCreating Cultures of Belonging That Move Beyond Inclusion

In this enlightening session, Sheetal delves into the complexities of identity, exploring how intersecting factors such as race, gender, sexuality, and socioeconomic status influence experiences of privilege and oppression. Drawing from her extensive work in diversity and inclusion, she challenges the traditional binary frameworks and advocates for a more nuanced understanding of non-gender conformity.

Attendees will gain insights into creating inclusive spaces that recognise and celebrate the full spectrum of identities, ensuring equity and belonging for all.

Session 2: 10:00 AM The Strength of Allyship and Advocacy from the Top

True inclusion begins with leadership that is visible, committed, and accountable. In this session, David shares how embracing diversity has shaped their leadership approach and created real cultural impact across a large organisation. Diversity strengthens teams, builds trust, and fuels innovation. But making space for LGBTIQA+ voices requires more than support  behind closed doors. It calls for public advocacy, honest reflection, and a willingness to  challenge the status quo.

This session will offer practical guidance on leading inclusively, building psychologically safe environments, and becoming the kind of ally who lifts others as they lead.

10:50 AM: Morning Tea

Session 3: 11:15 AM LEADERSHIP WITH ALTITUDE: DRIVING CHANGE FROM THE TOP

Alan Joyce was the only openly gay CEO in the ASX Top 100 during his time leading Qantas a position he held reverently and that he used as a platform to drive real change. As CEO during the national marriage equality plebiscite, Alan took a public stand for the Yes vote, with Qantas also proudly backing the campaign. His visibility and advocacy were not without backlash, but he remained unapologetic in his commitment to inclusion.

In this powerful session, Alan reflects on what it means to lead with authenticity, to face criticism without backing down, and to use your position to make things better for those who come next.

Session 4: 12:00 PM The Strength of Allyship and Advocacy from the Top

True inclusion begins with leadership that is visible, committed, and accountable. In this session, George shares how embracing diversity has shaped their leadership approach and created real cultural impact across a large organisation. Diversity strengthens teams, builds trust, and fuels innovation. But making space for LGBTIQA+ voices requires more than support  behind closed doors. It calls for public advocacy, honest reflection, and a willingness to challenge the status quo.

This session will offer practical guidance on leading inclusively, building psychologically safe environments, and becoming the kind of ally who lifts others as they lead.

1:00 PM: Lunch

Session 5: 02:40PM The Future of Work Is Inclusive: Embedding Equity into Everyday Leadership

Inclusion can’t be a side project—it must be embedded into the way we lead. This closing session looks at what inclusive leadership really means in 2025.

Gain inspiration and practical tools for making equity a daily practice.

3:30 PM: END OF DAY ONE & NETWORKING DRINKS

Post-Conference Workshop | 14th November

The Practical LGBTIQA+ Leadership Playbook: Leading with Clarity & Courage

9:00AM - 4:00PM

Step into the next level of leadership — unapologetically you.

This workshop is designed specifically for LGBTIQA+ leaders and emerging leaders, equipping you with practical tools, tested strategies, and the confidence to lead with clarity, courage, and authenticity.

You’ll walk away with a comprehensive toolkit—proven templates, practical techniques, and conversation guides—designed to help you lead boldly, support others, and build inclusive teams that thrive. Everything you learn will be immediately applicable in your workplace and across your leadership journey.

“I wish I’d done this workshop when I first stepped into leadership — it would’ve changed everything.”

What You’ll Learn:

Grounded in research and guided by inclusive leadership practice, this masterclass will help you:

• Strengthen self-awareness and emotional resilience: Understand your leadership style, regulate emotional responses, and build confidence in your unique strengths as an LGBTIQA+ leader.
• Create psychological safety for others: Build inclusive environments with clear boundaries and shared expectations that empower authenticity and accountability.
• Support and lead your team through challenges: Recognise what team members need to succeed—and lead with empathy, especially in environments where being out or different can carry extra weight.
• Deliver feedback that supports growth and inclusion: Learn how to give constructive feedback that builds trust, addresses issues early, and uplifts others with respect and clarity.
• Navigate hard conversations with courage and care: Use the Correction Continuum to approach tough conversations authentically, avoiding conflict avoidance and people-pleasing tendencies.

“This is the first leadership program I’ve done that gave me the tools to lead like myself, not like someone else’s idea of a leader.”

What You’ll Take Away:

Built for real-world impact, this masterclass provides you with:

• A practical leadership playbook filled with scripts, templates, and frameworks designed for inclusive, values-based leadership.
• A peer learning experience where you’ll connect with others navigating similar challenges in leadership and identity.
• Confidence to lead authentically—without code-switching, hiding, or holding back.
• A space to explore how your identity can strengthen, not limit, your leadership.