MANILA, PHILIPPINES – In a world that’s quick to judge and where many still feel the need to hide parts of who they are, imagine a workplace where they celebrate you, unconditionally and entirely.
EY Global Delivery Services (GDS) Philippines shines a light on what it truly means to make diversity, equity and inclusiveness personal. Through inclusive policies, supportive communities and everyday acts of allyship, the organization is proving that when people feel safe to be themselves, everyone thrives.
A culture built on belonging
For Goldie Yap, SAP Manager and an LGBTQ+ professional, inclusion isn’t about grand gestures. It’s about the small, consistent ways people show up for each other.
“Diversity and inclusiveness aren’t about big statements,” she says. “They’re about everyday actions — making sure people feel like they belong, can speak up or just be themselves around me.”
Goldie’s experience reflects a broader truth at EY GDS: inclusion is not a one-time initiative; it’s ingrained in their culture. From policies that support gender expression and domestic partnerships to gender-neutral restrooms and inclusive dress codes, the organization supports that no one has to choose between being professional and being authentic.
Unity in action
At the heart of this inclusive culture is the Unity Network, an employee-led group that champions LGBTQ+ visibility and allyship. Sheila Pepito, the group’s leader, shares how the network has become a lifeline for many.
“One of our members connected with a senior colleague during a Unity event,” Sheila recalls. “That conversation turned into an informal mentorship. It gave her the confidence and support she needed to grow in her role.”
Unity’s flagship initiative, Pelikula, a short film festival, has become a platform for storytelling. One film featured an LGBTQ+ professional sharing her journey which resonated deeply with colleagues and sparked meaningful conversations.
“These stories remind us that we’re not alone,” Sheila says. “They help build a community where people feel safe to be themselves.”
Complementing the awareness sessions and initiatives that the Unity Network leads, EY GDS also collaborates with organizations like the Philippine Financial and Inter-Industry Pride (PFIP), a leading voice and champion of LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion among private organizations in the Philippines.
Policies that reflect real lives
Behind these stories are policies designed with intention. Jaya Virwani, EY GDS Chief Wellbeing Officer and Diversity, Equity & Inclusiveness Leader, explains the organization’s “embassy model,” which applies inclusive standards globally, even in regions where societal norms may differ.
“Our Code of Conduct prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity or expression,” Jaya shares. “In the Philippines, we’ve gone further by offering healthcare benefits to domestic partners, bereavement leave for same-sex partners and paid parental leave for primary and alternative caregivers.”
These benefits are grounded in the principle of “family as you define it” — a recognition that love and care come in many forms.
Every voice matters
Inclusion at EY GDS isn’t just about policies; it’s about people. Goldie recalls a time when her team made a small change that had a big impact. “Some teammates were struggling to speak up,” she says. “So, we created smaller discussion groups and invited them to share. That simple shift made everyone feel more connected and valued.”
Differences in communication styles can cause friction, but at EY GDS, those moments are seen as opportunities to grow.
“We learned to listen better, be more open-minded,” Goldie reflects. “It made our team stronger.”
To sustain this culture, EY GDS invests in continuous learning. From e-learning modules on LGBTQ+ inclusion to immersive workshops and reverse mentoring, the organization equips its professionals, especially leaders, to practice empathy and lead with awareness.
Gamified campaigns like the #DEIAllyChallenge make allyship engaging and accessible, while town halls and Safe Space Conversations encourage that every voice is heard. These efforts are making a real difference — over 89% of professionals at EY GDS report feeling free to be themselves at work, a testament to the organization’s commitment to creating an environment where authenticity is welcomed.
A place to belong
For LGBTQ+ professionals considering their next career move, “The EY organization is a place where you can truly be yourself,” Goldie says. “You’ll be challenged, you’ll grow and you’ll work with people who really value who you are.”
Sheila echoes this sentiment: “The Unity Network provides a strong community. You’ll find opportunities to lead, to learn and to make a difference.”
And for Jaya, the mission is deeply personal. “Inclusion means no one has to shrink themselves to fit in,” she says. “When people feel valued for who they are, they show up with confidence, creativity and connection. That’s when we all thrive — not just as colleagues but as a community.”
At EY GDS Philippines, Pride isn’t just a monthly celebration. It’s their way of working, connecting and living — every day of the year.
Be part of the EY GDS Philippines team now and together, let’s celebrate the extraordinary you. Visit their official website https://www.ey.com/en_ph/careers/global-delivery-services.
