Spark Pride 2020 by Colenso BBDO

Spark is collaborating once again with Outline, an LBGTQIA+ charity, to highlight recruitment within the LBGTQIA+ community.

The campaign, created by Colenso BBDO, touches on what it is like for trans and non-binary people going through the recruitment process.

It also wants to affirm that OutLine is here to support them, but also that resources for employers seeking to foster more inclusive workplaces are available.

Gender non-conforming performer Gabriel, also known as Princess, who through phone conversations with their mum and potential employers, demonstrates some of the employment challenges that members of the LGBTQIA+ community can face, fronts the video.

The campaign is based on a report that evaluates the health and wellbeing of trans and non-binary people in Aotearoa and found that the unemployment rate among this group was more than double the general population.

More than a quarter of respondents reported that they suspect their gender expression or appearance made it harder to get paid work.

However, a 2014 study of LGBT strengths suggested that through adversity and life experience, members of the rainbow community tend to develop stronger skills in the areas of social and emotional intelligence.

Another study also cited resilience as being a strength, which are skills generally considered valuable in any working environment.

“We’ve been working with OUTLine now for two years, and to be able to produce another telling story that will hopefully push further discussions to come, is something we’re incredibly proud to be a part of,” said Frith Wilson-Hughes, Spark’s social lead.