The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) are set to host Pink Training, Europe’s largest LGBT training event, offering support and guidance for 300 students in the LGBT community on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues. USI is joined by Microsoft to support Pink Training reaffirming their commitment to diversity and inclusion. The event will be held in Galway from November 17th to the 19th.

Established in 1992, and now 25 years later, Pink Training is for LGBT students and LGBT allies. Workshops covered over the weekend include Coming Out workshops, Supporting a Friend Who’s Coming Out, Looking After Your Mental Health, Sexual Health, Trans* Awareness, Running an LGBT Society, Bisexuality Awareness, Being an LGBT Ally, Sexual Empowerment, lobbying and media skills.

Speaking ahead of the event former GMIT Students’ Union President and USI President Michael Kerrigan said:

“USI is proud to be holding the twenty-fifth Pink Training with the support of Microsoft here in Galway. Each year, hundreds of students’ lives are transformed for the better through the advice, support and life-long friends created here at Pink Training. The positive impact on LGBT students and their allies can be felt across campuses, and communities at every corner of the country. We’re delighted to have the support of Microsoft, who are championing diversity and inclusion not only in the workplace but for students too.”

Microsoft has developed a strong track record of fostering diversity and inclusion not only in the company’s workforce but also amongst future tech leaders. The company was recognised in the Workplace Equality Index Awards as one of the Top 5 Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality. With a firm belief in the power of uniqueness, Microsoft is partnering with the USI in bringing Pink Training to the next generation of leaders, helping to empower all students do achieve more.

Joanne Morrissey, HR Director, Microsoft Ireland said:

“We are very proud to support the USI in bringing Europe’s largest Pink Training event to Galway. For as a company, we firmly believe that each person is unique. That is why we have committed to promote diversity and inclusion amongst our team members. However, we take the view that there is always more we can do to support the broader LGBT community, including students. That’s why events such as Pink Training are so important in ensuring that all our young people can live out the motto – ‘come as you are, do what you love’.”

Pink Training the largest LGBT student training event in Europe for third level students, with delegations of students attending from USI-affiliated colleges across the country. The event has been running since 1992 and is now in it’s 25th year. Pink Training is primarily for LGBT students, but is also open to LGBT allies.