THE QUEER LEADERSHIP SUMMIT 2025
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UNLOCK | SUMMIT | 2025
Empowering Future Queer Leaders in Business.
A three-day immersive experience designed to empower emerging queer leaders to co-create inclusive futures. Through hands-on workshops, ideation challenges, mentorship, networking and real-world leadership experiences, participants explore wellbeing, communication, teamwork, innovation and community.
Want to take part?
1. REGISTER YOUR INTEREST
2. JOIN AS A PARTICIPANT
3. VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME & SKILLS
4. MENTOR, FACILITATE OR COACH AT THE SUMMIT
UNLOCK | QUEER LEADERSHIP SUMMIT | 2025
24-26 October | Barcelona | The Social Hub
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WHAT
Empowering Queer Leaders for New Futures.
This immersive three-day is designed to equip queer-identifying students, emerging queer leaders and LGBTQIA+ young professionals with tools, resources, knowledge, and support networks for business. It’s an invitation for participants to unite for a transformative journey and an opportunity to connect with a vibrant global network, collaborate on real-world challenges, gain visibility with inclusive employers, and develop the skills, confidence and connections to lead with impact in any field.
WHY
The World Needs More Queer Leaders.
Despite many businesses valuing diverse talent and leadership, LGBTQ+ workers remain underrepresented and underserved. The global average of adults identifying as LGBTQ+ is approximately 9% (with up to 30% of Gen Z), LGBTQ+ individuals are still disproportionately underrepresented in the workplace, especially in leadership roles. (Ipsos)
HOW
An Embodied Methodology for Effective Solutions.
This interactive and immersive experience develops leadership skills through workshops, ideation challenges, keynotes and masterclasses, mentoring, wellbeing sessions and professional networking. Our approach centres on embodying knowledge through experiential learning - doing, listening, debating, and testing ideas - so participants can immediately apply what they learn with a focus on shared experiences and creative engagement.
HOW
Unlocking Possibilities through Collaboration.
Our Innovation Hub will provide a collaborative space to receive tools, guidance, and expert support - helping participants ideate, debate, and present innovative solutions for more inclusive organisations, collectives, and businesses.
✓ Workshops with subject matter experts
✓ Inclusive coaching & mentorship
✓ Scenario-based, hands-on learning
✓ Collaborative cross-cultural environments
✓ Strategic networking
✓ Evidence-based tools and practices
✓ Career & internship opportunities
✓ Wellbeing activities for balance & creativity
UNLOCK | SUMMIT | 2025
The 5 Keys to Unlock A Leader's Potential.
The 5 Keys represent areas of development that are essential for nurturing well-rounded, holistic leaders. Each key symbolizes a different aspect of leadership growth that, when fully developed, equips queer leaders to excel both personally and professionally - unlocking their potential.
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Wellbeing
Communication
Team Work
Innovation
Community
JOIN US
Benefits for Participants.
✅ Accelerate Professional Development
✅ Develop New Leadership Skills
✅ Solve Real-World Challenges
✅ Explore Design Thinking, AI & Social Business
✅ Direct Access to Career Opportunities
✅ Connect With Inclusive Employers
✅ Intergenerational Networking
✅ Bespoke Resources
✅ Expert Guidance
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We Create Space is a global community-led platform, consultancy and collective on a mission to improve the lives of LGBTQ+ people and other under-represented groups of professionals around the world by connecting our community and corporate partners with tools, knowledge and a support network for personal growth and leadership development. We do that through shared experiences, content, research and consultative work. Read more about our impact within the community.
Our Partners
JOIN THE MOVEMENT
Partner with
UNLOCK Summit 2025.
Showcase your commitment to inclusive leadership and connect directly with young queer talent.
As a Summit Partner, your organisation can:
✓ Host a booth in our dedicated Career & Opportunities Hub
✓ Create a unique brand experience or interactive activity for attendees
✓ Send a keynote speaker to inspire our audience
✓ Host or join a panel discussion alongside industry leaders
✓ Pitch a real-world challenge for participants to solve during the Summit’s ideation
An opportunity to connect with the next generation of leaders, foster high-value relationships, and position your organisation as a champion of global queer leadership.
bring the unlock queer leadership summit to your city
Could your city be the next global stage for queer innovation, leadership, and community power? We’re opening the bid to host the Queer Leadership Summit 2026, and we’re looking for bold, visionary cities ready to champion inclusion on an international scale.
As a Host City, you’ll:
✓ Welcome hundreds of queer leaders, LGBTQIA+ innovators and change-makers from around the world
✓ Showcase your city as a hub for diversity, creativity, and economic growth
✓ Partner with us to co-create an unforgettable 3-day leadership experience
✓ Boost local tourism, talent attraction, and global visibility
FAQs
1) About the Summit
2) Programme & Experience
3) Taking Part
4) Careers & Opportunities
5) Practicalities
about the summit
What is the UNLOCK Queer Leadership Summit?
The UNLOCK Queer Leadership Summit is a three-day immersive event bringing together LGBTQIA+ students, young professionals and emerging Queer Leaders from around the world to co-create inclusive futures and develop their leadership skills. Participants will Unlock futures through the 5 keys: wellbeing, communication, teamwork, innovation, and community. Participants engage in hands-on workshops, ideation challenges, recruitment opportunities, and collaborative community-building, stepping directly into real-world leadership. UNLOCK Ideathon: Leadership in Action This challenge invites local and international participants to build inclusive tech solutions. With expert training in design thinking, AI, and social business, teams tackle real-world challenges and pitch ideas to industry leaders scouting future talent. Recruitment & Internship Hub: Where queer talent meets opportunity Organisations scout future leaders in real time through teamwork, mentoring and pitch sessions. Networking Arena: Community in motion Meaningful connections happen here across generations, industries and identities. Fuelling support, growth and collaboration. Learning Platform: Workshops, mentors and tools that stick Led by queer experts, workshops bring the 5 Keys to life, blending theory and practice in a hands-on learning space. Discovery Market: Showcasing queer innovation A space for brands to share bold ideas and immersive experiences with the community at the center.
Who can attend?
The Summit is open to LGBTQIA+ students, young professionals and emerging queer leaders with an interest in leadership, innovation, and creating positive change. Whether you are studying, starting your career, or looking to expand your network and skills, this is your space to connect, learn, and grow.
Do I need to be queer to join the UNLOCK Summit?
Yes. The Summit is designed first and foremost as a dedicated space for queer people to explore leadership, share lived experiences, and connect with others in a safe, affirming environment. By centering LGBTQIA+ voices, we ensure the programme, conversations, and opportunities are grounded in our community’s realities and needs. While we collaborate with many allies and partners in other contexts, this gathering prioritises creating an intentional space where queer participants can lead, learn, and thrive together.
When and where is it happening?
The UNLOCK Queer Leadership Summit will take place 24–26 October 2025 at The Social Hub in Barcelona, Spain, a vibrant and inclusive venue designed for collaboration, creativity, and community, allowing participants to immerse themselves fully in the Summit experience. Fully accessible and committed to diversity, The Social Hub also offers on-site housing solutions for students and young professionals.
Why should I attend? What will I gain?
By joining the Summit, you will: - Work in diverse teams on real-world challenges set by partner companies - Gain hands-on leadership experience in an ideathon format blending innovation and collaboration - Learn from global queer leaders, industry experts, and experienced mentors - Access the Career & Opportunities Hub with internship and recruitment possibilities - Take part in wellbeing activities to support balance, creativity, and resilience - Earn recognition of your skills through our CHOICE ID credential system - Build a lasting network of peers, mentors, and allies across cultures and industries
programme & experience
What happens over the 3 days?
Across three immersive days, you will take part in a rich mix of activities designed to build skills, spark ideas, and grow your network. The programme includes inspiring keynotes, hands-on workshops, the UNLOCK Ideathon, expert-led masterclasses, panel discussions, and mentoring sessions. You’ll also enjoy vibrant networking opportunities, community tables, activation breakfasts, and wellbeing activities to keep you grounded and energised.
What is the Ideathon?
The UNLOCK Ideathon is a collaborative challenge where participants work in diverse, cross-cultural teams to propose tech solutions to real-world problems submitted by our partner companies and organisations. With guidance from expert facilitators and mentors, you’ll use design thinking, AI tools, and social business modelling to create innovative, inclusive solutions. Teams pitch their ideas to a panel of industry leaders, with opportunities for recognition, career pathways, and further development.
Will there be wellbeing & mental health activities?
Yes. Wellbeing is at the heart of our 5 Keys approach to leadership. Throughout the Summit you’ll have access to movement sessions, reflective practices, and grounding activities such as mindfulness, journaling, or sensory spaces. We recognise that not all activities work for everyone, so neurodiverse-friendly and trauma-conscious alternatives will be available to ensure different energy levels, sensory needs, and comfort preferences are respected. Our aim is to offer supportive options so you can recharge, spark creativity, and maintain balance during an action-packed weekend.
Who are the speakers and mentors?
Our speakers and mentors are global queer leaders, industry experts, and change-makers from diverse sectors including business, technology, arts, activism, and wellbeing. They bring lived experience, professional expertise, and a commitment to inclusive leadership. Many are recognised voices in their fields, ready to share tools, stories, and strategies to inspire your growth.
Will I get to choose the sessions I attend?
Yes. While some sessions are designed for all participants to experience together — such as the opening keynote and final pitches — you will have the opportunity to choose from parallel workshops, masterclasses, and wellbeing sessions. This allows you to tailor your Summit journey to your personal interests, learning style, and energy levels.
taking part
How do I register?
You can register your interest by completing the form on our website or by asking your university or business school for a referral. We collaborate with various international business schools, and some may nominate or sponsor students to attend.
Can I join for just one day?
The Summit is designed as a full three-day experience, with each day building on the previous one. Single-day attendance is not recommended and may only be possible in exceptional cases, depending on availability.
Do I need any specific skills or experience?
No. All you need is curiosity, openness, and a willingness to learn and collaborate. The Summit is designed to welcome participants from different fields, backgrounds, and levels of experience.
Will I work alone or in a team?
You will be part of a diverse, cross-cultural team throughout the Summit. Your team will work together on real-world challenges, supported by mentors, facilitators, and experts.
careers & opportunities
Will there be recruitment or internship opportunities?
Yes. Both the Career & Opportunities Hub and the Networking Arena at the Summit are where inclusive employers and organisations connect directly with participants. You’ll have the chance to explore internships, graduate roles, and other career pathways, with some companies actively scouting talent during the event.
How do I connect with companies at the Summit?
You can meet employers through multiple channels: networking events, employer booths in the Career & Opportunities Hub, and pitch challenges where your team’s ideas are presented to industry leaders. Many company representatives also take part as Mentors or in the Feedback Committee, giving you direct access to decision-makers.
Will my participation be recognised?
Yes. All participants will receive a certificate of completion for the UNLOCK Queer Leadership Summit. This recognition can strengthen your CV, portfolio, and future applications.
practicalities
How much are tickets and what’s included?
Ticket prices vary depending on whether you are booking as an individual, through a partner organisation, or via a group/school package. All tickets include access to the full three-day programme (keynotes, workshops, the ideathon, mentoring sessions, wellbeing activities, networking events, activation breakfast and community tables) plus entry to the Career & Opportunities Hub and Discovery Market. Materials, resources, and some refreshments are also included.
Are there scholarships or discounts?
Yes. We offer scholarships to help make the Summit accessible to participants from diverse backgrounds. We also work in collaboration with international business schools, which may sponsor or nominate students. Discounted tickets may be available for early registrations and partner organisations.
Where should I stay?
If you’re traveling from abroad or from other cities in Spain, we recommend The Social Hub, our Summit venue, which offers on-site accommodation ideal for students and young professionals. This ensures you are close to all activities and part of the community atmosphere. We can also provide recommendations for nearby hotels, hostels, and budget options.
What should I bring?
Bring a laptop or tablet for working on challenges, a notebook and pens, comfortable clothes for active sessions and wellbeing activities, and an open mind for learning, connecting, and creating.
Is the venue accessible?
Yes. The Social Hub is fully accessible, with step-free access, lifts, accessible restrooms, and facilities for different mobility needs. We are committed to ensuring the space works for all participants and can provide additional accommodations if needed.
What’s the dress code?
Be yourself. We recommend a comfortable professional style that allows you to feel confident while also moving freely during activities.
Will food and drinks be provided?
Meals are not included in the ticket price, but affordable food options will be available on-site at The Social Hub throughout the Summit. A variety of choices will cater to different dietary needs, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly meals. Light snacks and refreshments may be provided during breaks.
