Embassy Model Summit 3: SOGIESC (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, and Sex Characteristics) inclusion across the Southwest Asia and North Africa (SWANA) Region

The 3rd Embassy Model Summit is the final instalment of a pioneering series dedicated to advancing SOGIESC  Inclusion in SWANA.  This transformative event builds on the foundations laid by Summit 1 in May 2023, which introduced the innovative Embassy Model for SOGIESC inclusion, and Summit 2 in November 2023, which tackled the challenges of data collection and safe spaces in restrictive environments.

The entire series has been made possible thanks to the generous support of Pearson, whose commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion has enabled these critical conversations and practical solutions to flourish.

With an exceptional line-up of speakers and a programme designed to inspire, educate, and connect, Summit 3 focuses on intersectionality and practical strategies for driving meaningful change within organisations and communities.

Programme Highlights

Welcome and Opening

Welcome and Registration (13:00) Begin the day by connecting with peers during the registration period.

Sponsor’s Welcome (13:25) Delivered by Kevin Lyons, an accomplished Human Resources professional and commentator on HR trends and topics.

Opening Address (13:30) Reflections on the Embassy Model Summit journey by Kamran Khan, Summit Co-Founder, Change Management Specialist, and Co-Director of Pride in Education, and Laila El-Métoui, Summit Co-Founder, Founder of SWANA Queers, and Co-Director of Pride in Education.

Keynote and Expert Insights

Keynote Presentation and Q&A (13:45) Rasha Younes, Interim Director at Human Rights Watch, will deliver a keynote on Corporate Social Responsibility in SWANA: Navigating Legal Challenges to Support SOGIESC Inclusion. A must-attend session for anyone looking to understand the intersection of CSR and human rights in complex regions.

Region Update & Presentation (14:30) Gain valuable insights from Dr Nas Mohammed, Founder of the Alwan Foundation, as he presents the Annual Human Rights Report for the LGBTQ+ Community in the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC).

Interactive Workshop and Panel Discussion

Break (15:00) Take a moment to refresh and network with fellow attendees.

Workshop (15:15) Led by Hasan Kilani, this interactive session focuses on SOGIESC Inclusion in SWANA: Navigating Regional Nuances for Global Inclusion Models. Participants will explore actionable strategies to adapt global frameworks to regional contexts.

Panel Discussion (16:00) A thought-provoking discussion chaired by Laila El-Métoui and featuring Rahim Al Habachi, Hasan Kilani, Dr. Nas Mohamed and Rasha Younes, addressing the complexities of fostering inclusive environments in the SWANA region.

Closing Remarks

Closing Remarks (16:45) Reflections on the day and next steps in advancing SOGIESC inclusion, delivered by key speakers.

End (17:00) Conclude the summit inspired and equipped to drive change within your organisation and the  SWANA region.

Why Attend?

Organisations and individuals attending will benefit from:

Regional Insights: Understanding the unique legal, cultural, and societal challenges to SOGIESC inclusion in SWANA.

Practical Solutions: Learning globally adaptable strategies for embedding inclusion, while respecting regional nuances.

Valuable Connections: Networking with human rights advocates, diversity leaders, and corporate professionals committed to social impact.

The venue is fully accessible, featuring:

Wheelchair-Accessible Entrances: Main entrances on the Strand and Victoria Embankment Gardens are step-free.

Lift Access: All floors of the building are serviced by lifts.

Accessible Facilities: Thoughtfully designed spaces ensure inclusivity for all attendees.

Public transport links, including wheelchair-accessible Charing Cross and Embankment stations, make travel convenient.