Proud Futures
Thanks to the generous support of Inspiring Scotland, The UPS Foundation and Swiss Re, our Proud Futures programme supports LGBTQ+ people to take the next step in their careers. Whatever that next step is, this programme supports you to gain new skills and build your network.
Proud Futures programme for career progression
These full day programmes will bring together cohorts of 40 LGBTQ+ professionals in Edinburgh and London. The programme offers attendees the opportunity to take part in interactive activities, peer-to-peer learning and guided discussion to help equip them with the skills, network and knowledge to take the next step in their career.
Why attend?
Looking for a new role can be an exciting but daunting task. Specifically for LGBTQ+ people there are often additional complexities that make taking that next step a challenge. Through attending this programme you’ll explore how to tackle some of those challenges to feel more confident taking the next step in your working life. You’ll have a unique opportunity to do so among other LGBTQ+ people who may share some of your experiences.
Programme details - London
- Date: 16 October 2025
- Time: 10am – 4.30pm
- Location: London, Swiss Re offices (the exact address will be shared with successful candidates upon confirmation of a place)
- Catering: Lunch and refreshments will be provided.
- Applications close: 25 September 2025
Programme details - Edinburgh
- Date: 22 October 2025
- Time: 10am – 4.30pm
- Location: Central Edinburgh (the exact address will be shared with successful candidates upon confirmation of a place)
- Catering: Lunch and refreshments will be provided.
- Applications close: 25 September 2025
What will I get from the programme?
This programme is designed for people who are looking to make a change in their working situation through taking on a new role. We’ll explore key themes around understanding what you want from work, developing your confidence, enhancing your network and searching for inclusive employers. You can expect to leave with a mix of new information, connections and skills that will support you to take the next step in your career.
Who can attend?
This programme is open to all LGBTQ+ people who are looking to take the next step in their career. It might be particularly useful for those who are earlier on in their career or who are looking to apply for a new role after a long time and would appreciate refreshing their skills. Please note that this programme is not suited to those who are looking to move into employment for the first time. Our Edinburgh programme is only open to LGBTQ+ people who live in Scotland, if you reside outside of Scotland, please apply for the London programme.
How do I apply?
To be considered for a place on this programme, please the appropriate application form. If you need to complete this in a different format, please email us. The application form will ask you more about your employment goals, barriers to employment you’ve seen or experienced, and what you’re hoping to get from the programme. We particularly welcome applications from people who face additional barriers to accessing employment, including People of Colour, trans people, working class people and people with disabilities. We take steps to ensure that the programme is an inclusive, safe and welcoming space for more marginalized members of our community.
Applications close on 25 September 2025. All candidates can expect to hear from us by the first week of October.
