In this panel event, IP Inclusive and Gowling WLG will explore what good allyship to LGBTQIA+ people looks like in practice, beyond the rainbow lanyards and badges. There will be the opportunity for Q&A as part of the event.
Refreshments will be provided.
Location
We are kindly hosted by Gowling WLG at
Two Snowhill
Birmingham
B4 6WR
Programme
5.30 – 6.00 pm Registration and arrival with tea and coffee
6.00 – 7.00 pm Panel event chaired by Michael Tushingham and Alex Driver, followed by Q&A
7.00 -8.00 pm Refreshments and networking
Meet the panellists
Francesco Di Lallo
Fran Di Lallo (they/them) is a part-qualified trainee patent attorney at Barker Brettell LLP, specialising in protecting software and AI related innovation. Fran raises awareness of LGBTQIA+ experiences and helps shape DEI policies within IP practice. With just over two years’ experience in the profession, they bring a distinctive perspective of starting a career as an out and proud LGBTQIA+ member.
Samantha Holland
Sam Holland (she/her) is a Partner at Gowling WLG who leads the Commercial Litigation team. She is a passionate advocate for DE&I and an LGBTQIA+ ally who strongly believes that everyone should be able to be themselves at work, and in all aspects of their lives, and that a happy, diverse and inclusive workplace is in everyone’s best interests.
Alex Driver
Alex Driver is a Principal Associate in the IP Team at Gowling WLG and co-chair of the firm’s LGBTQIA+ network, Open House. He believes that huge strides have been made in the promotion of the importance of diversity in the legal profession but that more can be done by all.
Michael Tushingham
Michael Tushingham (he/him) is an Associate at Gowling WLG, working in the Tax team and based in Birmingham. He is also a co-chair of the firm’s LGBTQIA+ employee network, OpenHouse, and is a committed supporter of the wider ‘Inclusion for All’ programme at Gowling WLG.
Registration
Please register via our Eventbrite page. If you have any specific access requirements, please let us know when you register or by emailing events@ipinclusive.org.uk; we’ll do what we can to help.
Cost
This event is free. So are all our resources. That said, we do need money to keep the show on the road, so if you enjoy the event please consider contributing. For more information, visit the IP Inclusive fundraising page.
