Lou Beardsmore Co-founder, Pride Outside CIC Panel: Tech driven healthcare and education for all
Lou Beardsmore is an inclusive leader and changemaker dedicated to fostering LGBTQ+ inclusion, leadership, and wellbeing. As the co-founder of Pride Outside CIC, a Glasgow-based social enterprise, Lou is committed to creating transformative spaces that empower individuals and organisations to embrace diversity and drive meaningful change for their LGBTQ+ employees, clients and service users.
With over 20 years of experience in the third sector, Lou has worked across the UK and internationally with global organisations such as the Red Cross, Oxfam, and ActionAid. Her expertise spans DEI, fundraising, grant management and social impact, having collaborated with over 100 charities, B corps and social enterprises to amplify their impact. Lou is passionate about leveraging technology and AI to drive and support diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Passionate about equity and social justice, Lou brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and strategic insight to leadership conversations. Whether supporting grassroots initiatives or advising large-scale projects, she continues to champion inclusive leadership as a catalyst for positive and lasting change.
When she’s not driving social change, Lou can be found adventuring across Scotland in her very old trusty campervan. And if you happen to stumble upon a comedy stage, don’t be surprised to see her there too—using humor as a tool for activism, delivering her sharp, politically charged comedy with the same passion she brings to her leadership and inclusion work!
