Pride Month 2025: Amie’s journey of confidence with Boots

Tell us a bit about you and your career with Boots so far?

I’ve worked for Boots as a No7 advisor for three years now. It was actually my mum who saw the job advert and mentioned that, since I was so passionate about makeup, I should apply. I was reluctant at first, as I didn’t know if what I knew was enough. But I took a chance, and after a great initial video interview with my Regional Business Manager, I was invited to do an in-store showcase and following this, I got the job! Over the past three years, I’ve focused on getting the most out of my role every day, from the conversations I have with customers to the ways I can proudly support the LGBTQ+ community. I’ve had the opportunity to take part in videos discussing LGBTQ+ representation in beauty halls, joined the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee for No7, and even been to Nottingham Pride.

What do you enjoy most about working in store?

From my very first day, I loved it and knew that’s where I wanted to be! Being able to meet a customer, understand what they wanted to improve or perfect about their skin, and then help them achieve that is so rewarding. Watching someone’s face light up as they realise they still look like themselves, but even better is what inspires me to do this job every day! I’ve actually been nominated for a Best of the Best award three years in a row for my customer compliments, because I take those interactions very seriously. I’ve always wanted to make sure that everyone who comes to my counter, whether they’re female, male or non-binary feels welcome, so creating an inclusive environment has already been incredibly important to me.

Why did you want to join the Boots Pride Alliance Business Resource Group (BRG)?

I identify as Bisexual, and have done for as long as I can remember. I was Chair of my local Pride in its very first year, and I’ve made several friends through this. The community is so important to me, so not long after joining Boots, I decided to get involved with the Pride Alliance BRG as I wanted to be a part of the community within the workplace. The BRG has given me this sense of community, but it’s also kept me informed on all key LGBTQ+ awareness events such as Transgender Day of Visibility, Pride Month and Pride itself.

How has being a member of the Pride Alliance BRG impacted you and what positive changes have you seen as a result of this group?

It’s how I found out about volunteering at Nottingham Pride, and that led to me coming out to my mum. She’d always known I was involved in Pride events and the LGBTQ+ community, but I’d never really explained why. Whilst I was volunteering with Boots at Nottingham Pride, I was filmed talking about why I love working for Boots, and I felt so proud of who I was in that video. I didn’t recognise myself, I looked so confident and passionate. I knew I wanted to show my mum, but I also knew I had to tell her first, as I’d mentioned in the video that I was bisexual. It was a relief to have talked about it, as I no longer had to hide it or pretend I was anything other than who I truly am. Since I’ve been part of the BRG, I’ve been able to get a Boots Pride badge and have seen the introduction of pronouns on our name badges!

What does Pride Month mean to you?

Pride and Pride Month is so important to me, both personally and on the counter in store. For me personally, it’s a chance to celebrate a huge part of who I am, but also reflect on the struggles and challenges the LGBTQ+ community have faced over the years. It allows me to express myself, I get to be bold and bright, and that’s reflected in the makeup I wear to work throughout June. On counter, it’s a chance to decorate with Pride flags and to ensure everyone knows we are a safe space, where EVERYONE is welcome.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to learn more about the LGBTQ+ community and identities?

Wanting to learn more about the LGBTQ+ community and identities is great! It’s always appreciated when people ask questions, but it’s important to keep them respectful. Personally, I don’t mind if people ask why I have my pronouns on my badge, as I’m proud to share that I’m part of the community. There are also some fantastic resources online such as stonewall.org.uk where you can learn more about LQBTQ+ terms and identities. It’s also important to understand that sometimes you might get things wrong, and that’s okay. What makes a difference is how we handle those situations. For example, if you accidentally misgender someone, it’s important to recognise this, apologise, correct yourself, and make a conscious effort to be correct next time. Even those of us that are a part of the community are still learning!