This audio was recorded as part of the first WEM Pride online event, for members of the Water and Environmental Management LGBTQ+ community and their allies who would like to raise awareness of LGBTQ+ issues in the WEM sector. WEM Pride provides LGBTQ+ people a safe space to share stories to support their community and increase education on the importance of Diversity and Inclusion in the WEM sector.

Speakers aim to focus on how far we’ve come in the WEM world in relation to LGBTQ+ issues, the importance of being an ally and what it’s like to be a part of the LGBTQ+ community within the WEM sector.

Mike Wheeler is a Senior Water Engineer at the Canal & River Trust and a Chartered CIWEM member. Mike joined the Trust in 1996 as a Lock Keeper and for the past 11 years has worked in the Water Management Team. Mike is a ‘Rainbow Ally’ at the Trust, helping to champion diversity and inclusion within the organisation.

Credits

Presented & Produced by Niki Roach

Executive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb Limited

With thanks to Alastair Chisholm

Honorary Executive Producer Jane Boland