Membership Directory - Individual

Will Barr

Audit Trainee at BDO LLP

About

Bio: Will currently works at BDO, having graduated with a First Class Honours degree in Accounting and Finance at the University of Southampton. Will joined LGBT Great's Project 1000 as he embarks on his journey as a young professional with a desire to break down barriers and promote inclusivity in the workplace.

Alongside his studies to become a chartered accountant, he plays a key role in the PRIDE Network at BDO UK LLP through external engagements, specifically professional networking.

With BDO's PRIDE Network (designed to support LGBTQ+ colleagues) being in a slump prior to his joining, his goal is to grow the group and feel inspired by fellow Project 1000 members to increase visibility. This has been achieved through fundraisers at office events and participating in firm-wide promotional videos for the network.

The Financial Services Industry is heavily cis-het dominated. It can be difficult to be visible in these kinds of office environments and having a work identity which aligns with your personal identity is harder for queer staff. Acting as a role model for others can encourage conversation, reduce stigma and break boundaries to align our self and work identities.

Will comments: "I recognise role modelling inclusivity and enabling diversity is part of everyone's position, no matter how junior or senior we are in an organisation's structure. Therefore, I take great pride as someone fresh into the industry as I know many of my colleagues struggle to confidently express themselves. My goal is to support and inspire them to reach their full potential whilst being their true selves."