Meet the LGBTQIA+ gamechangers making waves across industries

IMAGES BY KIRAN GIDDA, JIKSAW, AND JOSHUA GORDON 

The DIVA Power List 2026 is here! Once again we are here to spotlight the incredible work of LGBTQIA+ women and non-binary people across all sectors of life. The DIVA Power List is a beacon of hope in these troubling times – a celebration of 100 gamechangers who are bringing LGBTQIA+ visibility to sport, music, workplaces and more. 

Campaigner

Caroline Paige

Co-Founder, Fighting With Pride

Caroline is a pioneering former RAF navigator and the founder of Fighting With Pride, a charity supporting LGBTQIA+ veterans. As the first openly trans officer in the British Armed Forces, she has become a leading advocate for inclusion, visibility and recognition. Through her work, she champions equality and preserves LGBTQIA+ military history. Her leadership inspires change across defence communities worldwide.

Connie Frankish

Writer and Activist

Connie Frankish is an advocate, educator, facilitator, speaker and writer. She is dedicated to empowering individuals and communities, using her work to challenge norms and promote inclusivity. Through her advocacy and educational initiatives, Connie inspires change, raises awareness and drives meaningful conversations on social justice and equality. Her leadership and commitment make her a powerful voice in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society.

Liz Carr

Actor and disability rights campaigner

Liz is a comedian, broadcaster and international disability rights activist. She is best known for her role as forensic examiner Clarissa Mullery in Silent Witness. In 2024, she presented the documentary Better Off Dead?, advocating against assisted suicide. Throughout her career, Liz has campaigned tirelessly against legalising assisted suicide in the UK, breaking barriers and raising awareness for disability rights both nationally and internationally.

Jess O’Thomson

Legal researcher, writer, journalist, speaker and campaigner

Jess is a legal researcher, writer, journalist, speaker and campaigner. They serve as the Trans Rights Lead at Good Law Project and are an expert in trans human rights law. Jess focuses on the implications of the UK Supreme Court decision in For Women Scotland, using their work to challenge injustices, advance trans rights, and drive legal and societal change both nationally and internationally.

Jude Guaitamacchi

Motivational speaker, award-winning campaigner, consultant

Jude is a motivational speaker, award-winning campaigner, consultant and TEDx talker. As the founder of Trans+ Solidarity Alliance, Jude has led ground-breaking campaigns, including organising the largest LGBTQIA+ lobby at Westminster in 2025. Jude was also the first non-binary model for a Harrods Beauty campaign.

Laura-Rose Thorogood 

Founder of LGBT Mummies

Laura-Rose is a LGBTQIA+, maternity and fertility activist, educator, writer, speaker and campaigner. She is the CEO of Make Birth Better and founder of LGBT Mummies, supporting over 80,000 people worldwide with inclusive guidance for familymaking. She is dedicated to bringing equality and equity for LGBTQIA+ people in fertility spaces. 

Marty Davies

Writer, artist, campaigner and strategist, founder of Trans History Week

Marty is the founder of Trans+ History Week and an award-winning creative strategist, campaigner, and writer. In 2026, Trans+ History Week will celebrate its third edition, highlighting the histories, achievements, and contributions of gender-diverse people globally. Marty also runs Smarty Pants Consultancy, helping companies engage authentically with LGBTQIA+ communities. Through her work, she combines creativity, advocacy, and expertise to promote inclusion, visibility, and representation in both business and society.

Megan Jayne Crabbe

Creator, author, presenter and host

Megan is a body-positive influencer, writer, speaker, and presenter. In 2025, she published her second book, We Don’t Make Ourselves Smaller Here, offering guidance to break free from society’s pressures. With over one million followers, Megan creates empowering content on body positivity, mental health, feminism, and LGBTQIA+ rights, inspiring audiences to embrace self-love, challenge societal norms, and advocate for inclusion and acceptance.

Image by Kiran Gidda

Victoria McCloud

British lawyer and former judge

Victoria is a trailblazing British lawyer and former judge. She became the youngest ever Master in the High Court and the first trans person – and only the second woman – to hold the role. Following the UK Supreme Court ruling, Victoria has announced her intention to take the case to the European Court of Human Rights, challenging the British government and Supreme Court for overlooking the fundamental human rights of trans people.

Yasmin Benoit

Model, activist, researcher and writer

Yasmin is a model, award-winning asexual activist, writer, speaker, media consultant, and researcher. She created the #ThisIsWhatAsexualLooksLike campaign to challenge misconceptions about asexuality and co-founded International Asexuality Day to celebrate and raise awareness of ace communities worldwide. In 2025, Yasmin partnered with King’s College London to study public perceptions of asexuality, offering valuable insights that foster understanding, visibility and acceptance for asexual individuals across society.

Community

Aisha Shaibu-Lenoir

Social entrepreneur and LGBTQIA+ activist

Aisha is a social entrepreneur and LGBTQIA+ activist, founder of Moonlight Experiences and director of The Common Press. She serves as Head of Community Engagement for UK Black Pride and as a Trustee for GiveOut. Her work focuses on addressing the lack of visibility, resources, and safe spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community across the UK and beyond in meaningful lasting ways.

Anne Onwusiri

Founder of Black Girls Ruck

Anne is the founder of The Black Rugby Community and Black Girls Ruck, a collective for Black women and non-binary people in rugby. Through their work, Anne is driving inclusion, diversity, and belonging in sport, creating safe and empowering spaces on and off the pitch. Anne’s advocacy ensures that every LGBTQIA+ player feels seen, valued and able to fully participate, helping rugby become a more equitable and welcoming community.

Boe La

Director of London Queer Mart

Boe is the founder, director and curator of London Queer Mart. They are also the owner of Boe Studios, creating art that celebrates LGBTQIA+ people and their communities. Last year, Boe put on their fourth annual Queermas Market, which featured over 130 LGBTQIA+ artists. In creating these spaces and art, Boe is inviting everyone to celebrate and support LGBTQIA+ artists and creators.

Emily Witham

Founder of The London Dyke Market

Emily is an artist and the founder of The London Dyke Market, an annual community-led showcase of the UK’s leading dyke artists, writers and creators. Its first iteration in 2024 saw over 2,000 people turn up to celebrate dyke artists and creators, creating a vital community space. In 2025, Emily was also recognised by the Madame F Queer Britain Art Award.

Katie Norman

Founder of Labeless

Katie is the founder of Labeless, a lesbian-owned pleasure brand created to address the lack of authentic lesbian representation within the sex toy industry. Through Labeless, Katie is hoping to centre lesbian desire, platforming products that have inclusion, queerness and diversity at their core. In removing the male-gaze lens the industry is often looked through, Katie has become a powerful force in the sex toy industry.

Laïla El-Metoui

LGBTQIA+ equity educator and motivational speaker

Laïla is the founder and CEO of Pride in Education, an LGBTQIA+ equity educator and motivational speaker. She also founded and chaired Proud London Councils, the pan-London LGBTQIA+ staff network, and now chairs UK Queer Arabs. Drawing on her experiences as a disabled Arab lesbian, Laïla champions visibility, intersectionality and allyship, advocating for inclusive policies and education. Through her leadership, she continues to empower LGBTQIA+ communities across the UK and beyond.

Libby Baxter-Williams

Director of Biscuit

Libby is the director of Biscuit, a bi advocacy group dedicated to amplifying and supporting bisexual voices. Offering in-person and online resources, Biscuit creates a space where bi+ people are represented and heard. Since its 2016 launch, the organisation has highlighted bi+ issues, led the #BWithTheT movement, and hosted events like last year’s Bi+ Community Fair, uniting speakers, audiences, and activists for a day of visibility and change.

Raga D’silva

Author, host, TEDx speaker and LGBTQIA + activist

Raga is a storyteller, podcaster, and social entrepreneur and human rights activist. She is the co-founder of OUTspoken Speakers CIC, the UK’s first speaker agency and social enterprise for LGBTQIA+ women, non-binary individuals, and allies. Raga also hosts the Older Queer Voices Podcast, providing visibility for older queer narratives. Her TEDx Talk, 50&OUT, and debut book, Untold Lies, both create conversations about intersectionality and champion authentic storytelling.

Polly Shute

Founder of Out & Wild Festival and Events

Polly is the founder of the Out & Wild Festival, the UK’s largest wellness and community festival for LGBTQIA+ women and non-binary people. Launched in 2022, it has attracted attendees from across the UK and beyond. She is deputy chair of Internedia and director of Pride in the City, supporting queer communities through events, programmes and advocacy. Previously on the board of Pride in London, Polly has been recognised on the OUTstanding Top 20 LGBT Public Sector Leaders and the Pride Power List for her work in LGBTQIA+ inclusion and visibility.

Tabs Benjamin

Founder of Butch, Please!

Tabs has been bringing the community together for over a decade through the legendary event night Butch, Please!. Founded by Tabs, the night has been celebrated as “the coolest lesbian night in London”. It offers an inclusive space where butch people can feel seen, celebrated and empowered. For the last 10 years, Tabs has provided a platform for butches, femmes, lesbians, non-binary and trans people to come together, not just to party, but also to protest, take action and build community. Butch, Please! has become an essential hub for visibility, solidarity and joy within London’s LGBTQIA+ scene.

Diversity Champion

Alex Parmar-Yee

UK Strategy Lead & DEI Lead at Awin, Campaigns and Operations Trans Solidarity Alliance

Alex is UK Strategy Lead and DEI Lead at Awin, where she drives strategic initiatives and inclusive workplace practices. She also runs campaigns and operations for Trans Solidarity Alliance, supporting advocacy and community efforts. In addition, she mentors through Outvertising and contributed writing to the first Trans+ History Week. Her work centres on creating inclusive, supportive spaces for trans+ people everywhere.

Claire Harvey

Paralympic sportsperson, Founder of NION

Claire is a diversity and inclusion specialist, former Paralympian and founder of Not In Our Name (NION). Created in response to the 2025 UK Supreme Court ruling, NION brings together women who believe trans people deserve dignity, respect and safety. Over 100,000 supporters have signed its message, showing both media and policymakers that many women stand behind the trans+ community and champion equality and representation.

Cynthia Fortlage

Global educator, consultant and writer

Cynthia is the founder of the 4P Leadership Accelerator and serves as a Board Advisor for OutBritain and Pridally. Through her book Mentoring In A Minute and her work with executive teams, she drives inclusion, diversity, and belonging within organisations. Her guidance shapes leadership strategies that empower teams, foster equitable workplaces, and integrate inclusive practices into decision-making, creating environments where all employees can thrive and contribute their full potential.

Dame Julia Hoggett

Chief Executive Officer at London Stock Exchange

Dame Julia is the CEO of the London Stock Exchange, guiding one of the world’s leading financial institutions. A trailblazer in finance, she champions diversity, inclusion and transparency across the sector. Under her leadership, the Exchange has prioritised innovation, sustainability and support for businesses of all sizes. Dame Julia also uses her platform to inspire future leaders, promote equality in corporate governance, and amplify the visibility of women and LGBTQIA+ professionals in traditionally male-dominated industries.

Gem Canniegieter-Savage

Designer and Maker

Gem is a designer and boxer, using her platform to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. She runs Savage Makes By Gem which creates individually crafted cards that cater to the LGBTQIA+ community. Last year, Gem took part in the London Dyke Market, showcasing diversity and queerness. Gem has also been part of Pride Boxing, a charity fight night for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Jacqui Rhule-Dagher

Associate, Hogan Lovells International LLP

Jacqui is a trailblazer in the legal industry. In April 2023, she founded Legally Queerly (formerly known as Legally Lesbians). This initiative involves lesbians and queer individuals in the legal industry, or in-house lawyers, writing about their careers and the importance of visibility. The bios are collected to form an article which is published annually by DIVA magazine.

Kat Parsons

CEO of Diversity Umbrella

Kat is the CEO at Diversity Umbrella, the organisation behind the British Diversity Awards, Rainbow Honours, Employee Network Awards and European Diversity Awards. She is also a D&I Keynote Speaker, passionate about bringing diversity and inclusion to the forefront of every workplace and organisation.

Linda Riley

Founder of DIVA Charitable Trust, Lesbian Visibility Week, Rainbow Honours, British & European Diversity Awards

Linda is an LGBTQIA+ trailblazer, former Publisher of DIVA and founder of European Diversity Awards, British Diversity Awards, Employee Network Awards, Rainbow Honours and Lesbian Visibility Week. Throughout her career, Linda has championed LGBTQIA+ visibility, taking on key roles in the community such as former director of GLAAD and adviser to the British Labour Party on diversity issues.

Mélissa Brette Ogee

Director of Human Resources at Park Hyatt London River Thames

Mélissa is director of human resources at Park Hyatt London River Thames, part of Hyatt Hotels Corporation. She also serves as chair of HyPride UK & Ireland and EAME head of networking, leading initiatives to advance LGBTQIA+ inclusion across the region. With over a decade in luxury hospitality HR, Mélissa is recognised for implementing diversity, equity and inclusion strategies that create meaningful cultural change, fostering workplaces where authenticity, empowerment and inclusive leadership are embedded at every level.

Moud Goba

Micro Rainbow’s National Director

Moud is the National Director at Micro Rainbow, a charity that supports homeless LGBTQIA+ people seeking asylum. Alonsgide this, Moud is also one of the founding members of UK Black Pride. Her work is inspired by her own story as a lesbian who fled Zimbabwe to seek safety in the UK. Her dedication helps to provide LGBTQIA+ people seeking asylum with a safe, inclusive place to find guidance, help and community.

Role Model

Adelle Barker

Influencer and Advocate

Adelle is a Team Leader for Home Service at Sky and an LGBTQIA+ network associate focused on trans and non-binary inclusion. Over her 10 years at Sky, she has supported colleagues, coached teams, and encouraged professional growth. She also hosts the podcast #IDontKnowHowToBeTrans, sharing honest, humorous insights on life as a trans woman, offering guidance, representation and encouragement to trans and non-binary audiences.

CJ De Barra

Journalist, author and historian

CJ is a queer historian, journalist and author of Queer Nottingham. They are also the founder of the Notts Queer History Archive, an oral history project, which includes over 193 interviews, preserving the stories of queer culture in the city. Alongside this, CJ is the author of Neuroqueer and has spoken around the country about neurodiversity, acceptance, dating, sex and relationships. 

Mzz Kimberley

Actor, singer and cabaret performer

Mzz Kimberley is a singer, actor, cabaret performer, fashion icon and LGBTQIA+ activist. She is a patron of CliniQ, a health service for trans and non-binary communities, and an ambassador for ParaPride, supporting disabled LGBTQIA+ individuals. Mzz Kimberley has hosted both Brighton & Hove Pride and Brighton Trans Pride, celebrating queer visibility and community. She also serves as an ambassador for AIDS Memorial UK, using her platform to promote representation, inclusivity, health and empowerment for LGBTQIA+ and marginalised communities across the UK.

Emma Miller-McCaffrey

LGBT+ Fund Development Manager

Emma is an LGBT+ Fund Development Manager focused on building funding streams to support grassroots LGBTQIA+ organisations. With a background in partnerships, fundraising, and diversity training, she has held roles at The Proud Trust and Diversity Role Models. Emma is an experienced speaker and consultant, delivering LGBTQIA+ and domestic abuse training to major institutions. She also volunteers with Adoption UK and has been widely recognised for her impact in inclusion and advocacy.

Oscar Davies

First non-binary barrister in the UK

Oscar is the UK’s first publicly recognised non-binary barrister, practising at Garden Court Chambers. A Tier 1 Rising Star in the Legal 500, they specialise in employment, education, LGBTQIA+, human rights, commercial and property law. Oscar is a leading voice in diversity and inclusion and, in 2025, received King’s College’s Change Maker Award for advancing equality, inclusive legal practice, and impactful advocacy within and beyond the profession.

Professor Emeritus Sue Sanders

CEO Schools OUT and co-founder of UK LGBT+ History Month

Sue is a widely respected LGBTQIA+ educator, speaker, and activist, best known as co-founder of Schools OUT UK and founder of LGBT+ History Month in the UK. She has played a pivotal role in advancing inclusive education and raising awareness of LGBTQIA+ history and rights. Through decades of advocacy, Sue has influenced national conversations on equality, supporting schools and organisations to create more inclusive environments.

Rachel Reese

Founder of Global Butterflies

Rachel is CEO of Global Butterflies, an award-winning consultancy supporting organisations to create trans and non-binary inclusive environments for staff and clients. Working across the UK and internationally, including the EU, USA, and Hong Kong, she has driven impactful change in workplace inclusion. Rachel also champions trans communities through fundraising and pro bono support, helping advance equality, visibility, and meaningful inclusion on a global scale.

Rosalind Campion

Chief Executive Officer of the Academy of Medical Sciences

Rosalind is the Chief Executive Officer of the Academy of Medical Sciences, bringing extensive leadership experience across law, government, and international diplomacy. Alongside her professional leadership, Rosalind has been a long‑standing and visible champion for LGBTQIA+ inclusion. While in government and overseas postings, she helped introduce Pride participation at the British Embassy in Washington, established networks for LGBTQIA+ diplomats, and later served as senior LGBTQIA+ champion across multiple government departments.

Sharon Pickering

Veteran Community Worker

Sharon is a Veterans Community Worker with Fighting With Pride, dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ service personnel and their families. Drawing on over 20 years as a police officer specialising in mental health and safeguarding, she provides practical and emotional support, advocates for inclusion, and fosters resilience. Sharon also volunteers as an Army Cadet Leader and at the National Memorial Arboretum, creating safe spaces, peer networks, and access to vital resources for veterans’ wellbeing.

Tolu Osinubi

Director at Deloitte UK in the Quality and Test Engineering Team

Tolu is a multi-award-winning advocate for diversity, inclusion and intersectionality, and serves as director at Deloitte UK in the Quality and Test Engineering Team. She also co-chairs Proud at Deloitte, representing her intersections as a Black LGBTQIA+ role model in technology. As a keynote speaker, Tolu delivers workshops on LGBTQIA+ inclusion, intersectional identities, strengthening employee resource groups, inspiring greater awareness, change and more equitable workplaces across industries.

Media

Ali Bromley

Psychologist & ADHD coach

Ali is a psychologist and ADHD coach, as well as the winner of season 21 of Big Brother UK. She co-hosts The Social Battery Pod, where she explores unfiltered conversations about life, friendships, work and personal growth. Through her professional expertise and media presence, Ali brings insight, authenticity, and openness to discussions around mental health, neurodiversity, and navigating everyday challenges in modern life.

Christine McGuinness

Documentary presenter & TV personality

Christine is a model, television personality, author and autism activist. She first rose to fame on reality TV including The Real Housewives Of Cheshire and has fronted BBC documentaries exploring autism and neurodiversity. Diagnosed as autistic as an adult, she uses her platform and writing to raise awareness, challenge stereotypes, and support disability inclusion, winning media champion recognition at the British Diversity Awards for her impactful advocacy.

Clare Balding

Broadcast journalist and author

Clare is a groundbreaking English broadcaster, journalist, author and presenter renowned for her coverage of sport and culture. She has fronted multiple Olympic, Paralympic, Wimbledon and Royal event broadcasts and won a BAFTA Special Award, RTS Sports Presenter of the Year and many other honours. A passionate advocate for women’s sport and equality, she is also a bestselling author of books for adults and children.

Harriet Rose

TV & Radio Presenter

Harriet is a radio and television presenter, DJ, and content creator known for her dynamic work across Kiss and FUBAR Radio and her hit YouTube interview series. She has hosted The Masked Singer aftershow and appeared on Big Brother: Late & Live and Pointless Celebrities. A proud LGBTQIA+ voice, she founded the queer‑focused event GAY4U and champions visibility, joy, and authenticity in media.

Jane Hill

Newsreader and journalist

Jane is a groundbreaking newsreader and journalist best known as a main presenter for BBC News. She has anchored flagship bulletins including BBC News at One, Six, and Ten, and covered major global events with calm authority. An out LGBTQIA+ broadcaster, she champions representation and diversity in media.

Jen Brister

Comedian and writer

Jen is a stand‑up comedian, writer, actor and broadcaster known for her sharp, honest humour and powerful storytelling. She has performed solo shows across the UK and internationally, appeared on Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week and QI, and presented on BBC 6 Music. Her memoir The Other Mother and her ongoing tours and podcasts showcase her proud LGBTQIA+ voice in comedy.

Leanne Quigley

TV personality

Leanne is a Welsh TV personality, former British Army corporal, and reality star who rose to national fame by winning series three of BBC One’s The Traitors UK. She has since become a beloved media figure and celebrity judge on events like Worksop’s Got Talent, using her platform to share her life experiences, celebrate queer love and support community causes.

Munroe Bergdorf

Model, author and activist

Munroe is a trailblazing model, writer, broadcaster and activist whose work redefines visibility and rights for trans and queer people. She was the UK’s first trans model for a major beauty campaign and has since published books including Transitional and Talk To Me. Munroe has presented Queerpiphany on MTV UK, and fronted the documentary Love & Rage. She is a UN Women UK Champion and a powerful voice for inclusion and equality.

Rosie Jones

Comedian and writer

Rosie is a groundbreaking comedian, writer, actor and presenter known for her sharp wit and bold storytelling. She has appeared on panel shows including The Last Leg, 8 Out Of 10 Cats and Live At The Apollo, and created and stars in the Channel 4 sitcom Pushers. She has also published bestselling children’s books, hosted TV series, and uses her platform to champion disability visibility and inclusion.

Suzi Ruffell

Comedian and writer

Suzi is a comedian, writer, actor, podcaster and broadcaster whose honesty and humour have electrified stages and screens. She has sold‑out solo tours across the UK, appeared on Live At The Apollo, The Last Leg and QI, and co‑hosts hit podcasts including Like Minded Friends and Big Kick Energy, which won a Broadcast Sports Award. Her bestselling memoir Am I Having Fun Now? explores anxiety, identity and life.

Actor

Abigail Thorn

Actor

Abigail is a YouTuber, actor, playwright and creator of the Philosophy Tube channel, where she combines philosophy, performance and activism to educate millions of viewers. She has expanded into acting with roles in The Acolyte and House Of The Dragon, and her work champions trans rights and queer visibility, redefining how philosophy and art intersect with contemporary culture and representation.

Cynthia Erivo

Actor

Cynthia is an acclaimed actor, singer, and songwriter whose powerful performances span stage, film, and television. She has won a Tony and Grammy, been nominated for multiple Academy and Golden Globe awards, and made history with her acclaimed roles in Wicked and Harriet. She also champions LGBTQIA+ representation and serves as vice president of RADA, using her voice and artistry to advance inclusivity.

Erin Doherty

Actor

Erin is an actor recognised for her breakthrough portrayal of Princess Anne in The Crown and leading role in A Thousand Blows. A graduate of Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, she has earned critical praise on stage and screen, using her visibility to push for more diverse and authentic representation in the industry and inspire the next generation of performers.

Heather Peace

Actor

Heather is an actor, singer and LGBTQIA+ activist, known for roles as Eve Urwin on EastEnders and Sam Murray in Lip Service. She champions authentic LGBTQIA+ stories and representation, serving as a patron of Manchester Pride. In 2025, she shared her breast cancer treatment journey publicly, raising awareness, supporting others, and using her platform to inspire and empower the LGBTQIA+ community through honesty, visibility and advocacy.

Iz Hesketh

Actor

Iz is an actor best known for playing Kitty Draper in Hollyoaks and starring in Disney+’s Renegade Nell. On stage, she has brought dynamic performances to productions like Legally Blonde and Head Over Heels. Through both acting and drag artistry she amplify queer culture and representation in mainstream entertainment.

Jade Anouka

Actor

Jade is an actor and poet, known for versatile stage work and roles in His Dark Materials, Trauma and Cleaning Up. Trained at the Guildford School of Acting, she’s earned acclaim for theatre – including the Royal Shakespeare Company and Donmar Warehouse’s all‑female Shakespeare trilogy – and won awards for her Edinburgh Fringe and film work. Jade also publishes poetry and continues screen, stage and creative projects.

Image by The Other Richard

T’Nia Miller

Actor

T’Nia is an actor known for her dynamic work across television and film, with standout roles in Witless, Years And Years, The Haunting Of Bly Manor and Foundation. Born in London and trained at the Guildford School of Acting, she has built a versatile career since 2007. Openly lesbian, T’Nia also speaks on representation, bringing authenticity and depth to her performances.

Ki Griffin

Actor

Ki is a non‑binary, queer, intersex actor known for portraying Ripley Lennox on Hollyoaks and advocating for positive representation of gender diversity in media. Through their work onscreen and public speaking, they have helped spark conversations about intersex and LGBTQIA+ inclusion, pushing for authentic casting and broader cultural visibility in entertainment.

Cherrelle Skeete

Actor

Cherrelle is an actor, writer, producer and cultural producer. She has appeared in series including Hanna and Black Cake, as well as co‑founding Blacktress UK which supports creative opportunities for Black British talent. Her work in performance and production champions representation, amplifying underrepresented voices and driving cultural change in the arts.

Sophia Vi

Actor

Sophia is a British-Greek Cypriot trans writer, director, actor and CEO of Sophia Vi Productions. Trained at The London Studio Center and the International School of Screen Acting, her films have screened at over 30 national and international festivals, winning awards including Best Micro Short and Best LGBT+ (Cannes Short Film Festival). Sophia also directs theatre, including sold-out productions at Camden and Edinburgh Fringe, and develops short-form LGBTQIA+ and diasporic stories for screen and stage.

Musician

Cat Burns

Musician

Cat is a singer-songwriter who has released two studio albums and secured a Mercury Prize nomination. Cat has become widely recognised as a vital source of lesbian representation for audiences worldwide. Beyond her music, she speaks openly about life as a Black queer woman with autism and ADHD. Away from the studio, she charmed viewers on the BBC’s Celebrity Traitors with her warmth, wit and authenticity.

CATTY

Musician

Catty is a Welsh singer‑songwriter and independent pop/pop‑rock artist. She began her career in the duo Dusky Grey before going solo, releasing acclaimed EPs Healing Out Of Spite and Bracing For Impact. Known for her powerful queer-focused lyrics and dynamic performances, Catty has supported major acts like Stevie Nicks and built a growing following with charting singles and festival appearances.

CMAT

Musician

CMAT is an Irish musician, singer, songwriter, and country‑pop innovator. In 2025 she released her acclaimed third album Euro‑Country, topped the Irish charts, and won the RTÉ Choice Music Prize Album of the Year. She also performed on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury and sold out Dublin’s 3Arena, while gaining wide critical praise, Mercury Prize nominations, and a devoted international fanbase.

Horse

Musician

Horse is a Scottish singer‑songwriter and performer whose powerful voice and soulful songs have defined her career for over three decades. She has released nine albums, including The Road Less Travelled, and toured with legendary artists such as Tina Turner and BB King. In 2017 she was inducted into the Saltire Society Outstanding Women of Scotland, and her portrait now hangs in the Scottish National Portrait Gallery. 

Arlo Parks

Musician

Arlo Parks is a singer-songwriter and poet whose intimate, genre-blending music has earned widespread acclaim since her debut. She released the Mercury-winning album Collapsed In Sunbeams and its follow-up My Soft Machine, continuing to evolve artistically. Earlier this year, she released her latest album Ambiguous Desire.

Jess Glynne

Musician

Jess is a singer-songwriter celebrated for her soulful pop songs and record‑breaking chart success. She holds the record as the only British female solo artist with seven UK number‑one singles, and her 2024 album Jess and hit releases have earned her a prestigious BRIT Billion Award for over a billion UK streams. Her music continues to resonate worldwide, defining her as one of her generation’s most successful artists. 

Girli

Musician

Girli is a singer-songwriter and performer known for her bold, genre-blending pop and unapologetically honest lyrics exploring identity, relationships and self-expression. She has released projects including Odd One Out and Matriarchy. In 2025 she released her new album Ultra Vulnerable, marking a more introspective era, and supported it with headline tours and major festival appearances.

Lucy Spraggan

Musician

Lucy is a singer‑songwriter known for her honest storytelling and genre‑spanning folk‑pop sound. She first made history on The X Factor, scoring a Top 40 single and album before live shows aired, and has since released seven acclaimed studio albums including Other Sides Of The Moon, featuring a duet with Robbie Williams. She is also a bestselling memoirist, LGBTQIA+ advocate, and internationally touring artist. 

Nxdia 

Musician

Nxdia is an alt‑pop musician and singer‑songwriter, blending Arabic and English lyrics to explore identity, queerness and self‑discovery through music. Born in Cairo and raised in Manchester, they gained a huge online following with viral hits before releasing their critically acclaimed debut mixtape I Promise No One’s Watching, earning widespread streams, festival appearances and support on major UK tours.

Thea Hallow

Musician

Thea is an emerging contemporary R&B singer-songwriter from South London, blending jazz, gospel, hip hop and 90s/00s R&B influences. Inspired by artists like Erykah Badu, Brandy, D’Angelo, Jhene Aiko and Kehlani, she began releasing music in 2020. She also appeared on season one of the hit BBC show I Kissed A Girl.

Writer

Alice Oseman

Writer

Alice is a British author, illustrator, and screenwriter whose work has reshaped young adult storytelling. They created the bestselling Heartstopper graphic novels, and now Alice serves as writer and executive producer on the Emmy‑winning Netflix adaptation, now concluding with a feature film. Their novels, including Solitaire, Radio Silence, and Loveless, have provided vital LGBTQIA+ representation. 

Coral Wylie

Writer

Coral is a writer, performer, and theatre maker from West London, whose work blends science and art, often inspired by the natural world. A founding member of the Bush Theatre’s Young Company and graduate of its Emerging Writers’ Group, Coral is also an alumnus of the Soho Theatre Writers Lab. Their play ENTOMOLOGY was long-listed for the Tony Craze Award, and Lavender, Hyacinth, Violet, Yew premiered at the Bush Theatre in 2025 after an Alfred Fagon Award shortlist.

Joelle Taylor 

Writer

Joelle is a poet, playwright and novelist, winner of the 2021 T.S. Eliot Prize and the 2022 Polari Book Prize. In 2025, she released her latest collection, Maryville, using a lesbian bar setting to explore queer London’s hidden histories. Joelle also co-curates and hosts Out-Spoken Live at the Southbank Centre, celebrating diversity in voice, performance and storytelling. Through her work, she amplifies queer experiences, champions inclusivity, and raises visibility for marginalised communities in literature and performance.

Image by Robin Christian

Juno Dawson 

Writer

Juno is an author, screenwriter, and LGBTQIA+ advocate known for her work in young adult fiction and non‑fiction. Her books include Clean, Meat Market, and This Book Is Gay, which blend sharp humour with honest exploration of identity, gender, and sexuality. Juno also writes for television and film and is a prominent voice on LGBTQIA+ rights, inclusivity, and transgender visibility, drawing on her own experiences.

Liv Little

Writer

Liv is a writer, editor, and founder of gal‑dem, the influential media platform run by women and non‑binary people of colour that reshaped UK media representation. She launched gal‑dem while studying at university and later published her debut novel Rosewater in 2023. Liv has been recognised on the BBC’s 100 Women list and won the Randall Kenan Prize for Black LGBTQ Fiction at the Lambda Literary Awards. Her work spans journalism, film, and storytelling.

Paris Lees

Writer

Paris is an award-winning British author and journalist hailed as a defining voice of her generation. Her acclaimed memoir What It Feels Like For A Girl, also now hit TV show, explores growing up working-class and trans in Nottinghamshire. A pioneering broadcaster and columnist, she has broken barriers across major media platforms, amplifying trans voices. Paris is also a prominent speaker and advocate, championing inclusion, authenticity, and representation through her work. 

Shon Faye

Writer

Shon is a celebrated author, journalist and activist known for her incisive writing on culture, class, and trans liberation. Formerly a lawyer, she now focuses on advocacy and storytelling, gaining acclaim for The Transgender Issue and Love In Exile. Her work spans major publications and her podcast, Call Me Mother, champions equality, connection and social change.

Travis Alabanza

Writer, performer and theatre maker

Travis is a writer, performer and theatre maker who explores gender, race and identity through their work. Their projects, featured by the BBC, The Guardian and Vice, have been praised for their boldness and authenticity. Travis uses art to challenge societal norms, confront discrimination and amplify marginalised voices. Their work continues to push boundaries, spark dialogue and inspire change across the arts and wider society.

Isabella Dorta

Writer

Isabella is a spoken word poet and bestselling author with over a million TikTok followers. Her work tackles themes from heartbreak and body image to self-discovery, connecting with and empowering LGBTQIA+ audiences through her raw, emotive style. Her 2026 book, I Don’t Think I’m Straight, celebrates sapphic love in all its forms. Through her poetry and writing, Isabella continues to challenge societal norms and amplify diverse voices and experiences.

Val McDermid

Writer

Val is a trailblazing Scottish crime writer whose bestselling novels and vivid storytelling have defined modern crime fiction. She has sold millions of books worldwide, has been awarded major honours including the CWA Diamond Dagger, and her Tony Hill, Karen Pirie and Allie Burns series have been adapted for television and remain widely read. In 2025 she received an honorary degree from the University of Edinburgh, recognising her outstanding literary and cultural impact.

Image by Katie Jane Photography

Sport

Alex Scott

Sports commentator

Alex is a former professional footballer, sports presenter, and broadcaster whose influence spans sport and media. She earned 140 caps for England and captained Arsenal to multiple titles before transitioning into TV, becoming the first woman to host BBC’s Football Focus and a pioneering female pundit at major tournaments. She founded the Alex Scott Academy for young women in football and champions equality, representation, and inclusion in sport.

Cindy Ngamba

Professional boxer

Cindy is a Cameroonian-born boxer based in the UK, who made history as the first medallist for the Refugee Olympic Team. At the 2024 Games, she secured bronze in the women’s 75kg division, marking her as a rising talent. She has since turned professional, continuing to break new ground. Having moved to Britain aged 10, she cannot return to Cameroon as a lesbian, making her visibility especially powerful.

Emma Kirk-Odunubi

Running coach, gait analyst and sports scientist

Emma is a gait analyst, sports scientist, and running coach with over 15 years’ experience in the industry. A Brunel University graduate, she combines biomechanics expertise with practical coaching through To The Finish Line. Emma has partnered with brands like Puma, Under Armour, and lululemon, empowering athletes to perform stronger, smarter, and with confidence.

Hannah Botterman

Rugby union player

Hannah is an English rugby union prop known for her strength, skill, and impact on the international stage. She debuted for England at just 18 and has since earned over 60 caps, helping the Red Roses win the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup and Grand Slam titles. At club level she plays for Bristol Bears Women, and her powerful play and leadership continue to drive women’s rugby forward.

Jess Carter

Footballer

Jess is a footballer and defender for Gotham FC and the England national team. A versatile defender, she has won multiple Women’s Super League titles, domestic cups, and helped England retain the UEFA Women’s European Championship in 2025. She has earned over 50 caps. During the 2025 Euros, she stood up against online racial abuse, using her platform to advocate for respect and equality in the sport.

Jill Scott

Former professional footballer

Jill is a former English midfielder and iconic Lioness whose career redefined women’s football. She earned 161 caps for England, helped the Lionesses win the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022, and won domestic titles with Manchester City. Since retiring in 2022, she has been inducted into the National Football Museum Hall of Fame, become a popular TV personality, supported grassroots mentoring, and continues to inspire the next generation.

Leah Williamson 

Footballer

Leah is a footballer and captain of the Lionesses. A lifelong Arsenal player, she has won domestic titles and the UEFA Women’s Champions League with the club. As England captain she led the Lionesses to win the 2025 UEFA Women’s EURO, and has become one of the most respected leaders in women’s football.

Lianne Sanderson

Former professional footballer

Lianne is a former England international footballer, broadcaster, and outspoken LGBTQIA+ advocate. Renowned for her fearless playing style, she enjoyed a successful club career in England, the US, and Europe. Openly LGBTQIA+, Lianne champions inclusion, representation, and equality in sport, using her platform to break down barriers for LGBTQIA+ athletes. Now a respected media pundit and speaker, she inspires audiences with her honesty, advocacy, and commitment to positive change.

Lou Englefield

LGBTQIA+ sports rights activist

Lou is the founding Director of Pride Sports, a UK-based LGBTQIA+ sports inclusion organisation. With over 15 years’ experience, she leads the Football v Homophobia campaign, chairs the Fare Network, and co-chairs Pride House International. A dynamic leader in sports, governance, and communications, Lou speaks and consults globally on LGBTQIA+ inclusion, driving policy, education, and practice. Her work empowers organisations to create safe, inclusive, and welcoming sporting environments for all.

Sarah Bern

Rugby union player

Sarah is an English international rugby union player and LGBTQIA+ advocate, starring as a prop for England and the Bristol Bears Women. A 2025 Rugby World Cup champion, she uses her online presence to celebrate diverse, powerful bodies and challenge narrow beauty ideals. Open about her own body image journey, Sarah inspires others to embrace strength, confidence, and self‑acceptance both on and off the pitch.

Content creator

Adele Roberts & Kate Holderness

Presenters, authors and content creators

Adele and Kate are a high-profile lesbian couple known for their work across broadcasting, acting and media. Together, they co-wrote Personal Best and frequently appear as a visible lesbian couple, including on television shows like Celebrity Coach Trip. Adele is a broadcaster and DJ who champions LGBTQIA+ visibility and health awareness, while Kate is an actor recognised for her work across TV, stage and media.

Amy Spalding

Founder, SLT Studios, author and TV personality

Amy starred in the first series of the popular BBC LGBTQIA+ show I Kissed A Girl. Since then, she has used her platform to support the queer community in many ways. Her jewellery brand, SLT Studios, has become a staple in sapphic wardrobes, with items like the DYKE and DIVA rings worn by celebrities worldwide. In 2026, Amy announced her book The Dykonic Handbook will be published.

Bel Priestley

Actor and internet personality

Bel is an English actor, internet personality and trans advocate who rose to fame sharing her transition journey on YouTube and TikTok. She plays Naomi Russell in Heartstopper and was featured on the cover of Glamour UK’s Women of the Year in 2025. With millions of followers, Bel uses her platform to celebrate LGBTQIA+ visibility, challenge stereotypes and promote self‑love and confidence. 

Ben Pechey

Writer, presenter, content creator, TEDx speaker, LGBTQIA+ advocate

Ben is an award-winning non-binary and intersex author, presenter, DEI consultant, and LGBTQIA+ educator. They wrote The Book Of Non-Binary Joy and Your Gender Book and are a TEDx speaker promoting joy and visibility for trans and non-binary people. Ben collaborates with major brands and media to advance LGBTQIA+ awareness, inclusion, and education globally.

CurvyBlackWitch

Content creator

CurvyBlackWitch, also known as Janae Rochelle Owyn, is a content creator and activist. She hosts Lez Vibe, a podcast celebrating positivity, fun and open dialogue within the lesbian community. Janae uses her platform to champion body diversity and challenge societal norms, creating a safe space for queer women to share, express themselves and explore important issues. She has established herself as a respected and influential voice in LGBTQIA+ media and culture.

Dee Whitnell

Accredited sex educator, content creator, writer, speaker, consultant and activist

Dee is a multi-award-winning sex educator, journalist and activist. They founded Trans Kids Deserve To Grow Up and authored Beyond Bananas And Condoms. Using their platform, Dee educates audiences on non-binary identities, sexual health and activism, while providing vital visibility and resources for LGBTQIA+ communities. They also champion equality across education, media and society, alongside their roles at QueerAF and The Proud Trust.

Fizz Sinclair 

Actor, comedian, writer and host

Fizz is an actor, comedian, writer, model and content creator with a growing profile across stage, screen and social media. Trained in performance, she now uses her visibility to break down prejudice as a trans woman while championing LGBTQIA+ representation. Fizz has earned acclaim for her theatre work and storytelling, bringing humour, authenticity and bold creativity to her craft and advocacy.

Jessica Kellgren-Fozard

YouTuber, television personality and writer

Jessica is a YouTuber, author and advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights and disability representation. Since launching her channel in 2011, she has grown to over a million subscribers, sharing content on vintage fashion and beauty, disability, and LGBTQIA+ history and issues. Jessica also speaks openly about her experiences as an LGBTQIA+ parent. In 2025, she contributed to the anthology Owning It: Tales From Our Disabled Childhoods, reinforcing her commitment to visibility, advocacy and storytelling. 

Lyndsey & Louise Scott

Queer, comedic presenting duo

Lyndsay and Louise are a queer, comedic presenting duo known for their authenticity, humor, and dynamic digital content. Selected for the BBC Creator Lab and nominated for the New Voice Award’s Future Presenter, they’ve grown their series Truth Or Dare to over 28 million views, alongside What’s Your Letter? and Double Dare You. Blending comedy, entertainment, and fashion, they use their platform to engage audiences while paving their way into broadcast.

Ruby Rare

Sex educator, author, broadcaster and public speaker

Ruby is a sex and relationships educator, author, and broadcaster with over a decade of experience empowering people to embrace their bodies and sexuality without shame. She’s written Sex Ed: A Guide For Adults and The Non-Monogamy Playbook, hosted E4’s Sex Rated, and co-hosts The Ins And Outs podcast. A former Brook educator and ambassador, Ruby combines inclusive education with humour and enthusiasm, inspiring audiences to explore sex, relationships, and pleasure with confidence.

If you would like your bio amended, please contact editorial@diva-magazine.com.

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