World Pride Amsterdam 2026
The past few days at World Pride Amsterdam have been filled with powerful conversations, joyful reunions, celebration, resistance and, importantly, reflection.
I had the privilege of hosting the opening ceremony of the WorldPride Human Rights Conference, welcoming voices from across the globe at a time when defending our fundamental rights feels more urgent than ever! And huge for me, I introduced the Prime Minister of Netherlands Rob Jetten on stage and even had a little fun amongst the seriousness.
I also joined the panel Trade Unions, LGBTQIA+ Rights & Global Solidarity, marking 40 years of the Rainbow Network FNV and reflecting on the historic relationship between labour movements and LGBTQIA+ organising, and what solidarity must look like now as we face democratic backsliding and increasing attacks on our communities.
But some of the moments I’ll treasure most happened away from the stage.
I spent time with the incredible community at Netherlands Black Pride, gave a keynote, joined a panel, it was all about celebrating Black LGBTQIA+ joy and the importance of creating spaces where every part of who we are can be seen, valued and celebrated. It was brilliant! #BlackQueerJoy
I reunited with friends, comrades and fellow human rights defenders from across the world. Every reunion was a reminder that this movement has always been built on relationships, trust and a shared commitment to justice.
I was honoured to attend the International Pride Awards, celebrating extraordinary people whose courage, leadership and determination continue to move our movement forward.
There was also time with The Commonwealth Equality Network, reconnecting over lunch and continuing conversations about advancing LGBTQIA+ equality across the Commonwealth.
One of the unexpected joys of the week was spending time once again with former colleagues from Kaleidoscope Trust. Seeing activists across the globe I’ve worked alongside who continue to lead, organise and create change is a reminder that the seeds we plant together continue to grow.
Then came the marches, the conversations in corridors, the embraces, the shared meals, the laughter and those precious moments of simply being together.
Because this is something we don’t say often enough: Relationships are movement-building. The people we meet, the knowledge we exchange, the solidarity we nurture and the ways we continue to show up for one another are what sustain us long after the conferences end and the Pride flags are folded away.
So as I leave Amsterdam, I feel hopeful about what comes next.
As one of the Co-Chairs of London’s WorldPride 2032 Bid, I leave inspired by what this global movement can achieve when communities lead, when solidarity crosses borders and when we refuse to leave anyone behind. London has an extraordinary opportunity to build on this legacy, and I’m excited about the journey ahead. I’m looking forward to South Africa 🇿🇦 Cape Town next!
Until then, our work continues.
More solidarity across movements.
More investment in grassroots leadership.
More protection for those defending human rights.
More space for Black and other marginalised LGBTQIA+ voices.
More courage.
More love.
More collective action.
There is still so much work ahead.
But if Amsterdam reminded me of anything, it is this, our greatest strength has never been our institutions, it’s always been each other.
Thank you, Amsterdam. Until next time. 🏳️🌈❤️
#WorldPride2026 #HumanRights #GlobalSolidarity #LGBTQIA #BlackPride #TradeUnions #MovementBuilding #WorldPride2032 #London2032
