LGBTIQ+ Authentic Leaders Programme

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer + (LGBTIQ+) issues, once a taboo topic in business circles, have risen to the forefront in recent years. Inclusion has improved, thanks to diversity strategies and employee networks that support more people than ever to come out at work. Yet a more favourable workplace environment has not translated into a commensurate rise in LGBTIQ+ people in leadership positions. 

PwC Australia is helping to develop more of its LGBTIQ+ solvers into future leaders through the LGBTIQ+ Authentic Leaders programme. Launched in 2017, the programme equips participants with strategic insights, personal leadership skills and a powerful network to accelerate their career path.

The LGBTIQ+ Authentic Leaders programme is a six-month transformational leadership experience for LGBTIQ+ identifying people that leads them on a journey of self-discovery and self-authority. Throughout the programme, participants discover their core values and learn how to actively use them as a compass in leadership and in life. Each week, participants are challenged to take bold steps, informed by their values, to help shift their sense of what is possible through confidential small group discussions, online leadership retreats with experiential activities, group coaching and individual coaching sessions. 

Because the programme encourages individuals to dig deep, challenge themselves, be true to their values, take bold steps and overcome things holding them back at home and at work, participants are better equipped to master the doubts that are often ingrained within them early in life. By the end of the programme, participants are more prepared to confidently chart a path that accelerates their career goals and aspirations.

We recognise that everyone’s path is unique. By cultivating the leadership capabilities of our LGBTIQ+ staff and providing them with the necessary skills and experiences to become future leaders, PwC Australia is empowering its talent to unleash their full potential and put themselves forward for new opportunities.

The results

• 120+ graduates since 2017.
• Nominated as a finalist in the 2019 Michael Kirby LGBTIQ+ Inclusion Award.
• PwC’s LGBTIQ+ Authentic Leaders programme is expanding the number of openly LGBTIQ+ leaders by helping individuals create their own authentic leadership path, live a more balanced life, form deeper connections, inspire others and have a more powerful impact in their day-to-day work. We receive extremely positive end-of-programme feedback, like the testimonial below.