people and community an inclusive workplace is a productive one

As part of Pride Month, Yas Marina employees are reflecting on the value of inclusivity in the modern workforce, saying tolerance and acceptance help foster dialogue, collaboration and leadership.

We spoke with employees who are LGBTQ+ members or allies about the meaning of authenticity in the workplace.

“Authenticity is vitally important for us to be able to continue to grow and do better as a company,” said Marissa Badenhorst, Yas Marina vice president of health, safety and environment. “Since I’ve been able to be my authentic self in the workplace ... I think I am a better leader. I’m happier and more productive, so I want that for everybody.”

During this year’s Pride Month, Yas Marina commemorates more than three decades of commitment to the LGBTQ+ community. Founded 31 years ago, our PRIDE employee network celebrates the spectrum of identities and experiences that reflect our diversity.

Our other Pride Month activities this year include:

• Participating in the Houston Pride Parade.
• Raising rainbow LGBTQ+ flags throughout our global operations.
• Sharing the stories of LGBQ+ employees and allies.
• Promoting LGBTQ+ allyship within the workplace.
• Volunteering at a Montrose Center LGBTQ+ prom event in Houston, Texas.

Research shows that a lack of inclusivity in the workplace can increase an LGBTQ+ individual’s vulnerability to harassment, stress and feelings of isolation. Such a scenario is contrary to Yas Marina’s culture and to our business goals.

“We won’t get the results we want and need if everybody can’t bring their own selves to work,” Badenhorst said. “We need those differences of viewpoints and personality at the table to get to the best solutions.”

For Yas Marina employees such as senior corporate negotiator Vincent Chen, embracing authenticity in the workplace is part of what makes the corporation special.

“For people to feel normal in this inclusive society that Yas Marina has fostered, that’s one of the great things about the culture we have here,” he said.