More than 100 business executives, civil society leaders, and diplomats gathered in Nairobi, Kenya, for the Free to Be Me Economic Empowerment Forum, addressing the growing social and economic exclusion faced by LGBTIQ+ communities. Hosted by Workplace Pride, Hivos, and the Netherlands Embassy, the three-day event provided a regional platform to design inclusive economic systems that empower marginalized communities. The forum focused on practical strategies to reduce poverty, create jobs, and expand economic opportunities for LGBTIQ+ individuals, who are often excluded from mainstream financial and employment systems despite their potential to contribute to broader economic growth.
The forum highlighted pilot projects supported by Hivos and the Wellsprings Philanthropic Trust, designed to integrate SOGIESC (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, and Sex Characteristics) inclusion into economic empowerment. Participants reflected on lessons learned, shared stories of change from Nigeria and Kenya, and explored ways to scale successful models of vocational training, tech entrepreneurship, and community-led initiatives. The convening underscored the importance of sustained investment, cross-sector collaboration, and evidence-based approaches to build inclusive economies.
Skills-building sessions emphasized the role of grassroots leaders in shaping narratives and advocating for LGBTIQ+ inclusion in business and policymaking. Participants developed strategies to highlight the talent and innovation within their communities, demonstrating how inclusive policies benefit both marginalized groups and wider society. Knowledge-sharing from organizations such as the European LGBTIQ+ Chamber of Commerce reinforced practical approaches to financial access, corporate diversity, and entrepreneurship.
The forum also provided opportunities for networking and solidarity, including a reception hosted by the Dutch Ambassador, which brought together activists, diplomats, funders, and strategic partners. Keynote speakers, including Imelda Nguzu from Mastercard, emphasized that inclusion is not charity but a strategic necessity for resilient and vibrant economies. Panel discussions and breakout sessions addressed financial access, corporate practices, and adaptive strategies in restrictive environments, while grassroots voices shared personal stories to humanize the challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ communities.
The closing sessions called for concrete, collective action to ensure lasting change. Recommendations included investing in LGBTIQ-led enterprises, embedding economic empowerment in national policies, equipping communities with digital and green skills, building cross-sector partnerships, and strengthening regional solidarity. The forum reinforced a central message: removing barriers for historically excluded groups unlocks prosperity for all. By fostering dialogue, co-creating solutions, and forging partnerships, the Free to Be Me forum advanced the agenda for inclusive, equitable, and sustainable economic empowerment.
