As part of Pride Month, our colleague Quentin Godar, Commercial Excellence Manager, shares a personal story about visibility, allyship, and the importance of inclusion at work, every day of the year.
” Every June, when rainbow flags appear in streets and across our social media feeds, it’s a reminder of how powerful visibility can be. This is especially true in the workplace, where feeling seen and accepted can make all the difference in how people show up, connect, and thrive.
But that kind of visibility doesn’t just happen on its own. It’s stronger when companies make a clear, formal commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion. Because it sends a message that truly matters: you’re welcome here, just as you are.
That’s why I believe celebrating Pride Month at work is more than symbolic, it’s meaningful.
At Ontex, I’ve always felt accepted and supported. And that’s something I deeply value because I know it’s not a given everywhere. Inclusivity isn’t something we can take for granted. It needs to be nurtured, protected, and reaffirmed. Because when we stop actively supporting it, it can quietly slip away.
Over the past few years, I’ve helped organize Pride Month initiatives within Ontex. Some are simple but effective, like offering Teams backgrounds or Pride-themed email signatures. Others go a little deeper, like sharing personal testimonials from LGBTQ+ colleagues about their journey. Whether small or big, these gestures help create awareness and spark conversations. They make it easier for people to show up as themselves.
I’m also part of the LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group, a space where colleagues can connect, share, and support one another. Anyone is welcome to join, including allies, because listening to each other’s experiences is often where true learning begins.
I’m proud that inclusion isn’t just an add-on at Ontex. It is embedded in who we are. It is no coincidence that “Everyone” is one of our core values:
“We succeed as ONE Ontex team. We act with unity and inclusion, embrace diversity, and truly care for each other.”
That principle is backed by a clear commitment in our Code of Ethics, which outlines our dedication to an inclusive, respectful, and fair working environment. Discrimination in any form has no place here, and employment decisions are based on merit, not personal characteristics.
Pride Month is a time to celebrate who we are and how far we’ve come, but also to reflect on what more we can do. Because visibility leads to understanding, and understanding makes workplaces better for everyone.
To anyone navigating their own journey: you matter. You belong. And you’re not alone. “
