DEFIANTLY
DIFFERENT
The leadership program
for LGBTI+ top talent
The leadership program
for LGBTI+ top talent
Boost your career with the Netherlands' first leadership program specifically designed for LGBTI+ top talent! In Defiantly Different, we work with ambitious queer professionals who want to lead from authenticity and unlock the full potential of their identity.
Our goal is to connect LGBTI+ people from a wide range of industries and disciplines, and equip them with the tools to foster more inclusive cultures within their organizations. We aim to address the current underrepresentation of queer people in top leadership positions (currently only 1%). Through Corporate Queer, we help develop the leaders of the future.
Let’s add some queerness to the boardroom.
During the three-day masterclass, you will explore each other's motivations, discuss complex workplace situations, and identify the key ingredients of authentic leadership together. Inspiring leaders who are openly LGBTI+ themselves will lead workshops on turning vulnerability into strength.
“This is the program I have always dreamed of: a class full of ambitious queer professionals who are ready to take the next step in their careers and explore how their sexual orientation or gender identity shapes the choices they make”, says Remco Boxelaar (founder of CQ).
With Defiantly Different, we are building a network of alumni who empower each other to be open about who they are and support one another on their journey to the top.
1. Understand how your sexuality or gender identity influences your career and life choices.
2. Learn how authentic leadership helps create safer and more inclusive workplaces.
3. Reflect on your core values and how they align with those of your organization.
4. Explore exemplary leadership through role-play in challenging workplace situations.
5. Meet inspiring role models and connect with like-minded professionals.
6. Become a CQ alumnus and join a valuable and growing network.
This program is designed for LGBTI+ professionals working in corporate environments, government or similar institutions where norms can be broadened and inclusion strengthened. We are looking for people who have an open mind and possess the drive and skills to create meaningful change. You are ambitious, eager to learn and willing to play an active role in making your workplace more inclusive.
We aim to represent as many letters of the LGBTQIANPT+ spectrum as possible in each cohort to maximize the learning experience. We also value intersectionality, including queer people of color, non-binary individuals, people with disabilities and participants from different generations. To ensure a safe and open learning environment, participation is limited to a maximum of 20 participants.
You have 3-5 years of professional experience, giving you sufficient organizational awareness.
You are socially engaged and this commitment is reflected in your CV.
You are not afraid of constructive confrontation: you ask questions, challenge perspectives, hold up mirrors to others, and regularly reflect on your own behavior and beliefs.
The program consists of a three-day masterclass (Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday). The first English edition will be launched in July 2026. The dates are Wednesday, July 8; Thursday, July 9; and Friday July 10.
The program fee is €2,500 (excl. VAT) per participant. This includes course materials, lunches and refreshments, and a carefully curated selection of inspiring guest speakers.
If your employer cannot or will not cover the costs, please contact us to discuss alternative options.
Early bird participants receive a 10% discount and can join for €2,250. Registration must be completed before April 1.
Register or more information? Contact us!
Send an email with the subject "Defiantly Different English" to hello@corporatequeer.com or call/text +31 (0)6 538 565 04.
Below is an overview of the themes explored during the three days. The program is indicative; the exact order and content may vary slightly in practice.
We begin by getting to know each other, sharing our personal stories, and exploring our individual and collective experiences. Together, we defineour learning goals.
How did our coming-out journeys unfold, both privately and in the workplace?
Sandra van Hoof (she/her), coach and expert in systemic work, explains how growing up in a heteronormative society influences us both personally and professionally. Which family patterns and experiences shape the way we behave, present ourselves, and lead?
We identify our core values, define our personal mission, and explore the systems—family, workplace, and society—in which we operate.
On the second day, we learn from guest speakers who have reached the top—sometimes despite, and sometimes because of, their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Amin Michel (he/him) shares insights on intersectionality and leadership. Born and raised in Curaçao, he has 24 years of experience as a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion consultant, has worked in more than 30 countries, and is the founder of Inclusion4Diversity.
What challenges has he encountered throughout his career? Homophobia, racism—or the intersection between the two?
Lisa van Ginneken (she/her), the first transgender woman elected to the Duth House of Representatives, shares her personal transition story and reflects on the parallels between personal transformation and organizational change.
On the final day, we connect our personal values with those of the organizations we work for.
How would you describe your organization's culture? To what extent are you willing—and able—to be an activist within your workplace?
Remco Boxelaar (he/him) invites several Diversity & Inclusion professionals from leading companies. Together, we develop a strategic action plan tailored to your own organization and practice navigating complex workplace situations.
We conclude the program together with employers by envisioning what "queerness in the boardroom" could look like in practice.
What would the most inclusive workplace truly look like?
Q: Why can participants sometimes join at a reduced rate from their own pocket?
A: We want the program to be accessible to everyone, including those working in sectors with limited training budgets. Contact us to discuss the possibilities.
Q: My annual training budget is insufficient. Can the payment be split?
A: Yes. If needed, we can split the invoice into two parts: 50% upon registration and 50% after completing the program.
Q: I already work in a management role. Can I still participate?
A: Absolutely. In fact, we believe it is very valuable to learn across generations. Senior leaders often use different language and perspectives than younger professionals on their way up.
Q: Will you help me find a top executive position?
A: Not directly. However, the program significantly expands your professional network, which may open doors in the future.
contact us
hello@corporatequeer.com
+ 31 (0)6 538 565 04