EY’s proud network!
EY is an organisation made up of people who work together every day to achieve a common goal. Promoting a culture of inclusion means creating opportunities for dialogue, fostering understanding and building relationships capable of valuing differences. With this objective in mind, in 2019 EY founded the Unity Network Group, developing a journey made up of initiatives, events and opportunities for dialogue dedicated to LGBTQIA+ inclusion, involving people, professionals and organisations interested in contributing to an increasingly open and respectful environment.
Training is one of the pillars of EY’s work. Through dedicated meetings and events, the Unity project has addressed some of the most relevant topics for understanding the challenges related to inclusion and respect for diversity. From gender identity to inclusive language, all the way to combating hate speech. Each initiative has been designed to provide tools for further learning and awareness, helping to foster greater understanding both on a personal and professional level.
Among the topics addressed over the years are also same-sex parenting and coming out, which directly affect the lives of many people and deserve to be discussed and explored in safe and informed environments. These are joined by the relationship between LGBTQIA+ inclusion and sustainability, an increasingly relevant reflection that highlights how the concept of sustainability is not exclusively about environmental issues, but also encompasses the social dimension, respect for rights and the appreciation of people.
Alongside training activities, EY has always considered it essential to create opportunities for networking and connection. EY’s Unity firmly believes in the importance of building authentic relationships, creating spaces for sharing and connecting people who share the same values. Not only during Pride Month: EY’s commitment remains active throughout the year and every year, because an environment in which everyone feels welcome is an environment that grows strong and thrives, and in which professional and human talents can develop in a positive way.
For this reason, Unity has promoted numerous opportunities for socialising, from informal aperitifs to moments of collective participation during Pride events, as well as taking part in a race organised by the EY Foundation to support charitable initiatives: the latter representing an important opportunity for engagement and collaboration. Over time, these events have helped foster the exchange of experiences and the creation of new collaborations.
EY’s Unity commitment, however, is not limited to in-person events. Communication aimed at the wider EY population also plays an equally important role, through awareness-raising activities accompanying the main commemorative dates of the LGBTQIA+ community. Celebrating symbolic days means creating opportunities for reflection, keeping attention focused on rights and helping to spread a culture of respect that reaches an increasingly broad audience.
Each occasion represents an opportunity to tell stories, share accurate information and promote a positive and inclusive narrative around diversity. Through dedicated content and communication campaigns, the network renews its commitment to fostering dialogue and combating stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination. Looking to the future, Unity Network Group will continue, with growing commitment, to invest in promoting an inclusive culture, aware that change comes through knowledge and the sharing of experiences.
A commitment that, year after year, helps strengthen an environment founded on respect for people and on valuing differences as a genuine collective asset. It is no coincidence that Unity, EY Italy’s LGBTQIA+ network, was awarded Best Network 2026 at the Parks LGBT+ Diversity Index. The recognition highlights a journey that has been underway for seven years, characterised by growth, continuity, awareness and responsibility, capable of creating value over time. An achievement that confirms EY’s commitment to building an increasingly inclusive workplace that respects diversity.