Finding Pride at Boots: Astrids Story of Inclusion, Belonding & Career Growth

Astrid, a UAT Test Assistant at Boots, shares how an inclusive workplace culture and support from the Pride Alliance Business Resource Group helped her thrive as her authentic self. In this story, she discusses LGBTQ+ inclusion, career development, workplace belonging, and the importance of creating safe and supportive environments for everyone.

What makes you feel proud to be yourself at Boots, and how has that shaped your experience in your career so far?

During my time at Boots I’ve seen first-hand the growth in support for the LGBTQ+ community. It’s meant that work has become a safe space where I can truly be myself. I’ve been afforded the opportunity to share the importance of pride events and inclusivity via my work with the Pride Alliance Business Resource Group (BRG) and have used that to raise awareness of smaller identities within the wider community.

How has Boots helped you learn more about inclusion, diversity, or the LGBTQ+ community?

I’ve always had a fond interest in the LGBTQ+ community, researching various identities and historical events. Working at Boots has provided me the opportunity to share my experience and my findings. It’s pushed me to learn more, to understand different identities and empathise with other experiences to a greater extent. The sessions hosted by the various BRGs help give context and lived experiences to emphasise the importance of inclusive activities.

Can you share a time when you felt empowered to grow or take the next step in your career while being your authentic self?

For me, my career also includes the work I do with the Pride Alliance BRG. Being authentically me pushed me to strive for even more awareness and inclusion, so I put my name forward to be the Chair of the BRG. A couple months on and I’ve been fortunate to have the chance to talk to the right people and facilitate the right changes to be more inclusive to the LGBTQ+ community.

What role do colleagues, mentors, or networks play in helping you feel supported and included at Boots?

Thanks to the BRG, my line manager had access to further resources they needed to properly support me when I came out in the workplace. It was through the efforts of those who wanted to be inclusive and who wanted to spread accurate information that I felt safe enough to come out as Trans and socially transition within the workplace.

How can workplaces create stronger connections and a sense of belonging for people from all backgrounds?

Strive to keep learning and empathise. You don’t have to fully understand to recognise that actions and microaggressions can hurt others. By making the conscious effort to learn about other experiences and the importance of seemingly minor actions, everyone can make their environment even more inclusive with every passing day.

What message would you share with someone looking to build a career at Boots that truly values individuality and inclusion?

Being inauthentic takes so much energy. When you’re in an environment where you’re truly safe to be yourself, that weight is lifted and you can really thrive. Things you used to find monotonous become enjoyable and you can reallocate that energy to push yourself further.

Key Takeaways

• Boots provides support through employee-led Business Resource Groups.
• Inclusive workplace cultures help colleagues thrive.
• The Pride Alliance BRG supports LGBTQ+ awareness and education.
• Authenticity can positively impact wellbeing and career growth.
• Continuous learning helps create more inclusive workplaces.