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Amrita Prasad, a senior copy editor with The Indian Express, has been named the Out & Loud Journalist of the Year by the MIST LGBTQ Foundation. The awards were announced at the end of a three-day film festival organised by the foundation in Pune last weekend.
A release issued by the foundation stated that the IBM India Pvt Ltd was named the Out & Loud Organisation of the year, while Ali Khan, Pride & ZS Lead of ZS Associates, was named the Out & Loud Workplace Advocate of the year. Sumeksha Bhat, associate director and head of National Sales of IHCL Pune, was named the Out & Loud Ally of the year.
These awards are given by the foundation every year to celebrate diversity and inclusion in corporates and the society in general. Khan from ZS Associates emphasised their dedication to inclusivity, “At Pride@ZS, we prioritise creating a culture where ZSers can bring their authentic selves to work. Treating people right is at the core of our values.”
Similarly, IBM in a statement reiterated its commitment to creating a diverse environment. “IBM aspires to create a sense of belonging for all by building a more diverse workforce, cultivating a flexible work environment and advocating for equity, both inside and outside of IBM,” the statement read.
Shyam Konnur, Founder & Director of Mist LGBTQ Foundation, thanked the sponsors and participants who made the film festival a success. “Honoring the talented directors, actors, and behind-the-scenes visionaries whose collective efforts have brought these stories to life, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed sponsors, dedicated volunteers, and all the incredible individuals who have contributed to making this festival a reality!”