“When you look back in your own history, it’s amazing how memories become rainbow tinted”
BY DYLAN MANN HAZELL
Lydia Bernsmeier-Rullow, Business Analyst at the BBC in the Technology & Media Operations division, offered a glimpse into the intricacies of her life and work at the renowned corporation. From “rainbow-tinted” childhood memories to positive experiences at the BBC Pride network, Lydia tells the story of her journey into the diversity and inclusion landscape.
Raised in the town of Bolton, just outside of Manchester, Lydia’s childhood was imbued with a passion for creativity. Amidst playing the piano and singing, one hobby stood out above the rest and resonated deeply with her – creative writing. This passion for poetry and storytelling would later become a common thread, weaving throughout her career and her life. Lydia fondly reminisces about the influential role her father, UK radio presenter Mike Shaft, played in shaping her understanding and acceptance of her own identity. His support was subtle, yet powerful, helping to normalise the concept of being gay during a difficult period overshadowed by the AIDS epidemic and the introduction of Section 28 legislation.
“When you look back on your own history, it’s amazing how memories become rainbow-tinted,” Lydia remarks. “I had my first crush on a girl when I was about six, gazing at an older girl in the junior playground. I suppressed those feelings for many years. I went to church every Sunday and had no idea that there might be other girls who felt the same as me.”
These formative experiences, coupled with a cherished tradition of festive visits to an Italian restaurant in Manchester owned by a gay couple, gradually unravelled the intricate layers of her true self. From cautiously jotting down “I think I’m g*y” in her diary at 13 to openly embracing her identity openly at 17, she found solace in the strong support of her family. By the time she ventured into higher education, Lydia had blossomed into a proud lesbian, actively engaging with the LGBTQIA community at Edge Hill University and embracing her authentic self.
“Once I was out, I never went back in, and I’m now married to the love of my life, Nickie, and pretty ‘homonormative’!”
In 2019, Lydia took a leap of faith and transitioned from a career in customer care to a trainee journalist role at the BBC. This bold move at the age of 35 marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life, one that would eventually lead her to her current position as Business Analyst. She fondly recalls the thrill of achieving her first byline at the BBC, a milestone that filled her with immense pride – seeing her name grace an article was a moment of validation and accomplishment.
Joining the BBC Pride board out of a deep-seated commitment to supporting queer people, Lydia’s dedication to advocacy shines through.
BBC Pride is the LGBTQIA staff network, which provides peer support and works to drive engagement in LGBTQIA inclusion across the organisation. 10% of BBC staff identify as LGBTQIA.
For the last few years, the BBC has delivered sessions on LGBTQIA allyship to help drive inclusive behaviours and create a sense of belonging for the LGBTQIA community.
Alongside her wife, Lydia has long been immersed in the vibrant queer community of Manchester, where their combined efforts in volunteering and activism have left an indelible mark.
In her capacity as a Communications Officer for BBC Pride, Lydia’s responsibilities revolve around the creation and dissemination of vital information to members. Crafting engaging newsletters, email updates, and promotional materials, she ensures that the BBC Pride community remains well-informed about upcoming activities, milestones, and events. Her background as a writer and communications officer before her role at the BBC allowed for effective communication and storytelling.
Looking to the future of LGBTQIA equality, Lydia emphasised the importance of acknowledging intersectionality. With a nuanced understanding of her own identity, Lydia recognises the interconnectedness of various identities and their combined values, rather than viewing them in isolation.
“I am a cisgender, black, queer, disabled woman – you can’t look at my identity as separate parts.”
She also highlights the essential need for creating psychological safety across teams and departments in the workplace. Lydia says this is something the BBC does well by encouraging employees to speak up and address issues head-on.
She also points to their clear and robust policies that delineate acceptable behaviour and set boundaries.
Lydia goes on to say that these bedrock values are further demonstrated through the BBC Pride staff group. Lydia and the other staff members on the steering committee, give up their free time to represent and advocate for LGBTQIA staff at the BBC.
“Our team provides support, advice, and friendship to over 1,000 members of staff, both LGBTQIA and allies, via a range of communication channels. We offer social events, networking, and advocacy, as well as opportunities for LGBTQIA members of staff to be their whole self at work.”
Lydia’s vision for a more equitable workplace underscores the transformative power of an environment where people feel empowered to advocate for themselves and others.
The BBC is a proud partner of myGwork, the LGBTQ+ business community. Find out more about job opportunities at the BBC.
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