Post by University of East London

This Pride Month, we’re proud to celebrate Vanessa Varvas, University of East London’s Vice-President (Engagement) and Chief Marketing Officer, on winning Inspirational Role Model of the Year at Paramount's Rainbow Honours 2026! 🏳️‍🌈✨   This award recognises Vanessa’s outstanding leadership in championing inclusion and advancing equality for the LGBTQIA+ community.   Since 2018, Vanessa has helped drive significant progress at UEL, leading the University in embedding integrating LGBTQIA+ inclusion into everyday practice. At UEL, we are committed to creating a culture where everyone can show up as their authentic selves and Vanessa’s leadership is at the heart of that mission.   Over the past year, her work has focused on creating spaces for open dialogue, fostering shared accountability and ensuring colleagues feel empowered.   This is a truly well-deserved recognition of Vanessa’s impact across our University community and the wider sector.   Congratulations, Vanessa! 👏 #RainbowHonours2026 #TeamUEL #RH2026