LGBT History Month Lecture to focus on trans issues

Anjeli Patel will discuss her own journey as a trans woman, the challenges she has faced, and what she has learnt along the way at the lecture.

Anjeli will share her experiences of growing up and transitioning in the British Asian community, and the challenges she faced in education and employment. She will also discuss changes in legislation and the importance of supportive policies from employers. There will be an opportunity for audience questions.

Anjeli Patel

The lecture is part of LGBT History Month, a UK-wide initiative. Talking about the month, Anjeli said: “LGBT history month is vital for two reasons; firstly to showcase how far we have come as a community, and secondly to highlight how far we still have to go”.

Alongside her current job in Wealth & Asset Management at Ernst & Young, Anjeli is a member of trans*formation, a group for professionals who identify as trans and their friends and supporters. The group was founded recently, and aims to connect and inspire trans professionals, alongside working to achieve real change in the workplace.

Speaking about the importance of groups like trans*formation, Anjeli said: “Having sources of support around you is key – and visible role models can really make a difference too.”  

She added: “To me it’s a matter of equality. Employers should look at a person for what they have to offer the organisation, rather than their personal history or background.” 

Leyla Okhai, Head of the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Centre at Imperial, said: "We are delighted to have Anjeli come and speak about her experiences and contribute to the work we are doing on Trans awareness in the College. The lecture has drawn a lot of interest and having an insight into Anjeli's experience as a British Asian will help us to understand how transitioning is a different journey for everyone."