My preferred name is Mallika, and I use she/her pronouns. I identify as a transgender woman and am based in Hyderabad, India. In my role, I support North America and Canada for Customer Care as a senior analyst (process coach). I am a transgender activist and a Pride Employee Resource Group (ERG) lead for the Asia, Pacific, Japan and China region. I support many local non-governmental organizations during my free time and weekends as a volunteer. 

What does Pride Month mean to you?

Pride is my strength and support. I feel belonging in this company because of Pride.  

How has your involvement in the Pride ERG at Dell Technologies impacted your professional growth and sense of community within the organization? 

Pride spreads awareness about the community so we can work with ease. Pride sparked my confidence and helped me transition when I understood it was okay to be a trans woman. My journey started in an entry level role, and now I am a senior analyst because of the support and belief in my work, regardless of my gender.  

Can you share a specific initiative or project within the Pride ERG that you found particularly empowering or that made a positive difference in the workplace? 

We launched Pride India in 2018 with the support of Pride core team members. We've supported Dell in offering team members the option of a private all-gender restroom, same-sex partner insurance, same-sex partner vaccination and pronoun training sessions. Our pride members also facilitated grocery donation during the pandemic. 

How can we best support LGBTQ+ individuals during Pride Month and beyond? 

Encourage your friends and colleagues in the workplace to be a part of the Pride Month celebrations and events to get to know more about the community. You can also speak up for the LGBTQ+ community.  

Next, learn about how Marina harnesses her passion for people within the Pride Employee Resource Group.