Before Pride Month wraps up, we’re handing the mic to some of the incredible LGBTQ+ humans in our HEX community, because the future needs more real stories, not just rainbow logos.

At HEX, we believe in building a future where everyone gets to show up as their full self,  at work, in leadership, and in life. That includes queer founders, creatives, technologists, and students who are rewriting the rules and building spaces where inclusion isn’t just a value, it’s a lived experience.

This isn’t a campaign. It’s a conversation.

And we’re starting with the voices that matter most, our alumni.

Meet Eric Lay

Eric Lay is a legal professional, community advocate, and proud member of the LGBTQ+ community. From navigating conservative industries to relaunching an LGBTQ+ legal service, Eric’s story is a masterclass in courageous leadership and real-world impact.

We asked him 5 big questions about identity, growth, and what it means to show up fully, especially at work.

💬 What does being part of the LGBTQ+ community mean to you, especially in your professional journey?

“Being part of the LGBTQ+ community, to me, means showing up as my whole self — not just outside of work, but in the professional world too. It’s about pride, yes, but also resilience, visibility, and responsibility.

Professionally, it has shaped how I lead, collaborate, and advocate. I’ve learned the value of empathy and the importance of creating safe and inclusive workplaces — because I know firsthand how powerful it is when you feel seen and supported at work.

I think it’s also made me more courageous to challenge the status quo. Being part of this community has pushed me to speak up, build bridges, and bring others along. I’ve come to see representation not just as a personal milestone, but as a way to open doors for the next person who might be wondering if they belong.

In short, being LGBTQ+ is a core part of who I am, and it fuels my commitment to authenticity, equity, and being part of workplaces where everyone has the freedom to thrive.”

💬 What’s one challenge you’ve faced in your career or education because of your identity, and how did you grow through it?

“One challenge I’ve faced was overcoming the hesitation to be my authentic self during law school and early in my career. The legal profession has long been seen as conservative, and early on I was ‘advised’ by a senior lawyer not to be ‘too extroverted’ if I wanted to succeed.

That comment stuck with me. I found myself second-guessing how I presented, filtering parts of my personality, and trying to fit into a mould I thought the profession expected.

‍Fortunately, as I got further into the workforce, I found inclusive and supportive environments where being yourself was encouraged. That shift helped me realise that authenticity is a strength, not a weakness. It also taught me the value of finding a community that shares your values — because when you feel safe to show up as you are, you do your best work.”

💬 Tell us about a moment where you truly felt seen, safe, or supported, and what made that experience powerful.

“One memorable moment was early in my legal career, when I was given the opportunity to relaunch the Fitzroy LGBTQ+ Pro Bono Legal Night service alongside a colleague.

At the time, I was just a graduate — still finding my feet — but the firm didn’t see me as ‘just starting out.’ They backed me with trust, resources, and a genuine mandate to make a difference. That support wasn’t just symbolic; it was empowering.

It made me rethink what I was capable of and showed me the kind of leadership that lifts others up. That moment shaped how I see inclusion — not just as a policy, but as an action. Feeling seen isn’t about being noticed; it’s about being trusted and empowered to lead, no matter your title.”

💬 What advice would you give to young LGBTQ+ folks who are still figuring out how to bring their whole selves into their careers or ventures?

“Be realistic but hopeful. You’re unlikely to land in a workplace that ticks every DEI box from day one — and that’s okay. Like people, workplaces aren’t perfect. They make mistakes, but they can learn and grow too.

What matters is whether the workplace shows a genuine commitment to listening, improving, and creating an inclusive environment. And that’s where you come in. You have agency. Whether it’s joining a DEI committee, having honest conversations with leaders, or simply creating a sense of inclusion among your peers — you can help shape the culture you want to be part of.

Also, remember that every organisation is at a different stage in its DEI journey. Some may be award-winning firms, while others are just getting started. Don’t discount those early-stage workplaces — your presence might be part of the reason change happens.”

💬 How has being part of HEX helped shape your confidence, goals, or leadership style as an LGBTQ+ professional?

“The biggest thing I’ve taken away from HEX is the importance of maintaining a ‘start-up mindset’ — one that embraces uncertainty, adapts quickly, and takes ownership of the journey.

In my professional life, I’ve worked at the ATO, a commercial law firm, and an accounting firm — all without a background in tax, accounting or commerce. Each role came with its own set of unknowns, much like working in a start-up. But my experience with HEX gave me the confidence — and the mindset — to lean into that uncertainty rather than fear it.

To me, the start-up mindset is like a growth mindset with a scrappy edge. It’s about being resourceful, self-directed, and willing to figure things out as you go. That mentality has shaped not only how I approach my career but also how I lead — with curiosity, ownership, and a willingness to step outside my comfort zone.”

🌈 A final word

Pride isn’t just a celebration, it’s a reminder.

That every story shared is a ripple of change. That authenticity is strength.

And that the future is built by those bold enough to lead with truth.

We’re proud to have Eric in the HEX community, and proud to share his story with the world.

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Looking for a future where you don’t have to shrink yourself to fit in?

Discover innovation programs built for humans, not job titles → startwithhex.com