Pride Business Forum Hero 2024 Awards

The Pride Business Forum Hero award acknowledges individuals and highlights the role of members of the top management of organizations/companies, members of employee resource groups, or employees in HR who actively advocate for equal conditions for LGBTQ+ employees in their organizations/companies, or work towards improving the status of LGBTQ+ people in society, all beyond their professional agenda.

This award represents special recognition for those individuals who excel in promoting equal opportunities for LGBTQ+ employees. It is focused on these heroes who dedicate their energy and commitment to creating an inclusive work environment for LGBTQ+ colleagues in their organizations, going above and beyond their professional duties.

The Pride Business Forum Hero award aims to emphasize the key role of these individuals in supporting equality and diversity in the workplace. This may include not only the implementation of specific measures and projects but also active leadership in dialogue and awareness for the rights of LGBTQ+ people, both within the organization and in society.

Hana Součková, Country Manager, SAP Czech Republic

Hana has consistently championed diversity and inclusion for LGBTQ+ employees at SAP Czech Republic with tremendous enthusiasm. The year 2023 was particularly notable as she showcased Pride@SAP and DEI initiatives at SAP’s largest customer event in the country. Additionally, Hana was instrumental in confirming gender-neutral toilets at the Prague office and actively supported marriage equality by signing an open letter to the Prime Minister.

Beata Borer, Executive Director, GBS Prague Site Lead, MSD Czech Republic

Beata is a passionate advocate and leader for diversity, equity, and inclusion at MSD. As an executive sponsor of MSD’s employee resource group, Beata actively promotes and supports participation in workshops, events, and various initiatives. Her engagement during Town Halls and conferences, as well as her interaction with the Country Council, underscores her dedication to understanding and addressing the needs of all employees. Beata’s efforts exemplify her commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.

Bohumil Říha, Managing Director, Johnson & Johnson

Bohumil is a dedicated ally and a passionate advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion of LGBTQ+ employees at Johnson & Johnson. He has been the executive sponsor for the ERG at Johnson & Johnson for two years now. His commitment has significantly increased the budget and sponsorships for LGBTQ+ initiatives. As a top executive, he actively supports inclusivity through the ‘Open & Out’ initiative, promoting equal opportunities and prioritizing the personal and professional growth of all employees.

Martina Zimmermann, Expert Coordinator for Diversity, Škoda Auto

Martina is a remarkable leader at Škoda Auto, dedicated to advancing LGBTQ+ equality in the workplace. She fosters a safe and inclusive environment for all staff, recognizing their individual needs and challenges. Thanks to her work Škoda Auto facilitated tangible progress in the area of LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion. Martina is a true champion of equality at Škoda Proud.

Barbora Vachová, bývalá ČSOB Diversity Lead

Barbora is an exceptional visionary thanks to whom ČSOB is a leader in LGBTQ+ workplaces inclusion in the financial sector. After coming back from maternity leave, Barbora took a position of Diversity Lead at ČSOB and worked tirelessly to spreadhead diversity, equity and inclusion on all levels of the organization. During her tenure, the local ERG was established and today serves as an example for many other ERGs in the group, repeatedly winning the Employee Driven Initiatives award. She introduced equal benefits for LGBTQ+ employees in the ČSOB and brought attention and support for LGBTQ+ inclusion from the leadership of the company.

Barbora Šikolová, Operations Manager, Amazon

As the GLAMAZON President, Barbora spearheaded impactful LGBTQ+ initiatives, co-created Amazon’s transgender policy, and invited NGOs to engage with local management. Barbora’s leadership in organizing last year’s LGBTQ+ meetings, including “Jsme Fer,” showcases her dedication to diversity and inclusion, making her a true trailblazer at Amazon Czech.

Garrett Dibon–Smith, Associate Director Talent Enablement, Novartis Czech Republic

Garrett is a pioneer of Pride Czechia ERG Chapter, he is the one who took the hardest part of ERG – its creation. Garrett is unique person, who is driving LGBTQ+ agenda from his heart, he doesn’t do it for a sake of visibility, is passionate about it and is an advocate for LGBTQ+ people. He is also part of the Global LGBTQ+ leadership at Novartis and his bold objective is the creation of inclusive, safe workspace.

Stanislav Švec, Communication, University Relations, Manufacturing Support, Honeywell

Stanislav Švec is the founding member of Honeywell CEE LGBTQ+ ERG and the driving force of its activities in the Olomouc chapter. He translated the Honeywell Trans Inclusion toolkit into Czech. He also works hard to support local activists. In the past, he connected Honeywell with a local LGBTQ+ non-profit in Olomouc – Ollove, inviting the activists and young graduates to talk about their expectations from employers as LGBTQ+ people.