And if you feel like people are judging you, don’t allow it to get you down. It’s hard at first but let me tell you – it’s amazing when those doors open. Being just “you”, whoever that may be, is so important and needed in the world. This year, in 2021, we are going to celebrate this on four of our own Shell forecourts, which is simply amazing. Why am I sharing mine? Every year people across the world celebrate “Pride” LGBT+, diversity, equality and inclusivity. We all have journeys and stories to share.

When I look at myself in the mirror now, I feel proud, confident, outspoken and resilient.

At work I was accepted, and I had the support of some amazing colleagues who helped me throughout my journey. I was able to become a better version of myself, both in my private and working life. I didn’t have to hide my personal life, what I was doing on weekends or who I was with anymore. It was as though a massive weight was lifted from my shoulders. As I couldn’t be me, the true me, I was at a place in my life where all I wanted to do is scream.Ī few years ago I managed to speak out and say “I am gay”. A quiet, private person, with low confidence and not very sociable.