As we move through February, Sydney prepares to light up with the colour, energy, and vibrancy of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. More than just a parade, this globally recognised event is a celebration of love, inclusivity, and pride, serving as a beacon of hope and acceptance.
At Saxton Speakers, we understand the power of storytelling to inspire change. Mardi Gras is a perfect example of how diverse voices can unite communities and drive progress. As we celebrate this incredible festival, we acknowledge the importance of representation, advocacy, and the impact of voices that challenge the status quo.
Stay tuned as we highlight Speakers who are leading conversations around diversity, inclusion, and equality, ensuring that these messages continue long after the parade has ended.
A Celebration of Progress and Community
Beyond the glitter and glamour, Mardi Gras is a powerful advocacy platform, celebrating Australia’s LGBTQIA+ community. With its origins in the 1978 protest for equal rights, this annual festival honours the journey towards equality and continues to shine a light on the work that still needs to be done.
Mardi Gras celebrates the rich diversity of the community — including non-binary people, queer people of colour, LGBTQIA+ people with disability, and others whose identities have too often been marginalised. It’s a space for visibility, pride, and solidarity.
The Sydney Mardi Gras Parade, held this year on Saturday, 1 March, is the dazzling culmination of weeks of events, discussions, and celebrations. From thought-provoking talks and exhibitions to electrifying parties, the festival offers something for everyone.
How Organisations Can Embrace the Spirit of Mardi Gras
For businesses and organisations, Mardi Gras is an opportunity to reflect on and amplify their commitment to diversity and inclusion. It’s about more than wearing rainbow colours – it’s a chance to take meaningful steps towards creating environments where everyone feels valued, respected, and seen.
At Saxton Speakers, we’re proud to represent some of Australia’s most inspiring advocates for equality and inclusion, including:
- Nevo Zisin: As a non-binary author, advocate, and educator, Nevo uses their platform to elevate conversations around gender diversity, representation, and inclusion. Nevo’s insights are invaluable for organisations wanting to create safe, inclusive spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals to thrive.
- Faustina ‘Fuzzy’ Agolley: With a celebrated career in media and a strong voice on mental health and queer representation, Fuzzy inspires audiences to embrace authenticity and intersectionality.
Kaylene Langford: Kay is an entrepreneur, coach, and founder of Startup Creative, empowering diverse individuals to build successful businesses. She champions accessibility and inclusion, ensuring everyone has the tools to thrive.
- Dr Zac Seidler: A clinical psychologist and ally, Zac focuses on challenging stereotypes and promoting well-being, particularly among men. His work highlights how allyship can reduce stigma and foster mental health support for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
- Jamila Rizvi: A passionate advocate for equality, Jamila inspires organisations to embrace inclusivity in the workplace. Her ability to connect with audiences helps create actionable steps toward building safer, more diverse environments for all.
- Osher Günsberg: Known for his candid approach to mental health and advocacy, Osher’s work highlights the importance of creating safe, inclusive spaces where everyone feels supported. His allyship inspires audiences to actively contribute to a more accepting society.
These voices, alongside others in our talent family, can help your organisation explore themes of diversity, belonging, and allyship.
Learn more about the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) here, and find LGBTQIA+ Saxton Speakers here.
Join the Celebration
Whether you’re attending the parade, supporting events, or reflecting on your organisation’s role in championing equality, Mardi Gras is a time to celebrate the rich tapestry of humanity. Let’s build a more inclusive future together.
Happy Mardi Gras from all of us at Saxton Speakers! 🌈
Contact us today to find the right voice for your organisation.
