Imperial Pride Network marks 20 years with award shortlist
Imperial Pride Network marks its 20th anniversary with a national award shortlist and two decades of support for LGBTQ+ staff and postgraduates.
Imperial College London’s Pride Network is marking 20 years of supporting LGBTQ+ staff and postgraduate students with a national award shortlist place. Founded in 2006, the volunteer-led network now has more than 1,000 members across the university.
The network was shortlisted for Outstanding LGBTQIA+ Network of the Year at the Employee Network Awards 2026. Although it did not win, the university celebrated its nomination on 1 October as part of its anniversary year.
Originally known as Imperial 600, the group provides a community for LGBTQ+ colleagues, postgraduate students and allies, people who support LGBTQ+ equality. Its work spans social events, practical support and efforts to influence university decisions affecting its members.
One recent example is its contribution to Imperial’s decision to retain membership of Stonewall, the LGBTQ+ rights organisation. Through advocacy and consultation, the network helped bring staff and postgraduate perspectives into that decision, supporting continued access to workplace inclusion guidance and resources.
Its day-to-day work also includes helping colleagues find information on university policies, training and support. Resources cover supporting trans staff, challenging discrimination and taking action when witnessing unacceptable behaviour.
Alongside that practical work, the network creates opportunities for people to meet colleagues beyond their own teams and departments. LGBTQ+ History Month and Pride Month celebrations form part of its activities, with events and discussions offering space to share experiences and build friendships.
Co-chairs Philip Howell-Williams and Alex Carroll have credited the volunteers, committee members and allies who have contributed throughout the network’s history. Their anniversary reflections celebrate both that collective effort and the importance of helping people feel comfortable being themselves at work and while studying.
Imperial’s fellow finalists included LGBTQ+ networks from Barclays, Sky, Deutsche Bank and Virgin Media O2. The University of Manchester’s BeeProud network also appeared on the shortlist.
Staff and postgraduate students can get involved through the network’s mailing list and activities. Its staff Microsoft Teams group provides channels for events, training and conversation, alongside a private mutual-support space for trans colleagues and allies.
