On Thursday, June 3rd, an eager group of Chamber staff, board, alliance partners and members convened with Metro Inclusive Health to embark on the first of a capacity building workshop series intended to inform and create connections to our vast well of community resources. 

Kiala Emmons (she/her/hers), Metro Trans Services Program Coordinator, helped attendees develop a working understanding of the LGBTQ+ community by teaching topics on terminology, identity, and pronoun usage. She identified best practices in welcoming and catering to the LGBTQ+ community within various industries, and taught attendees how to create and foster a safer, healthier, and welcoming environment for all customers, guests, and clients. 

Attendees also left with broadened horizons on the social, medical, and legal transition needs of the LGBTQ+ community, with emphasis on considerations for the everyday intersection of those issues in their business and workplace relations.  

Kiala skillfully facilitated learning through an insightful presentation, running Q&A, and sharing specific, personal examples on how to support a loved-one, change non-inclusive business processes, and correct a mistake during a personal interaction. 

One attendee wrote, “Thank you doesn’t seem like enough. I have participated in multiple D&I trainings, and this presentation was the best one I have ever attended. I appreciated your candor, your thoughtfulness and your openness. Your passion in educating others really shines through when you teach.”   -Stephanie Frye, PNC Bank (to Kiala Emmons) 

According to the Tampa Bay Times, the LGBTQ+ community’s buying power is approaching $1 trillion. That makes inclusivity a win-win for both consumers and businesses.

Originally written and shared via St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce.