Oslo Pride Business Forum 2025

Oslo Pride Business Forum 2025

In a time where Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are more debated—and more feared—than ever before, we’re inviting politicians, business leaders, thinkers, experts and minority voices to dig into the real reasons behind the resistance. It’s a courageous conversation about discomfort, backlash, and why inclusion triggers opposition and resistance.
What to expect? Bold talks from top leaders and activists, Insightful panels on corporate fear, culture wars, and “woke-washing”. This is a safe space for uncomfortable truths and honest dialogue.
Whether you’re a DEI advocate, a skeptical executive, or just curious about the tension around Pride and progress—this forum is for you.

SCHEDULE
09:00 Welcome

09:15-10:00 Åsmund Aukrust (Minister of International Development) and Bernt Gudmund Apeland (Virke), moderated by Brita Møystad Engseth

10:00-10:30 Dr. Poornima Luthra
Where do we go from here?
With the backlash to DEI, Dr. Poornima shares her latest research that explores the reasons for this backlash, and what we can do to move the needle forward towards greater inclusion, diversity and equity in our workplaces.

10:30-10:50 Break

10:50-11:30 Panel #1: Torbjørn Røe Isaksen (E24), Even Westerveld (DNB), Preben Kristiansen (CircleK), moderated by Kimiya Sajjadi (Big Enough Global)
This panel explores whether companies genuinely understand the value of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, or if enthusiasm is beginning to fade. Are we witnessing DEI fatigue? What is the difference between the internal and external value of DEI initiatives—and does one necessarily validate the other? And what role should the government play in setting expectations for businesses when it comes to DEI?

11:30-12:30 Lunch

12:30-12:45 Salty

12:45-13:30 Panel #2: Henrik Syse (Peace Research Institute Oslo), Mikael Sado, moderated by Kimiya Sajjadi (Big Enough Global)
From war and unrest to growing polarization, global developments shape how we live, think, and relate to one another—even far from the frontlines. In this panel, Mikael Sado brings concrete insight into the real-life effects of today's geopolitical landscape, while Henrik Syse will reflect on the geopolitical shifts shaping our time, and why they are not just distant concerns, but deeply relevant to the fight for human rights, freedom, and diversity.

13:30-13:50 Equality Check, Marie Louise Sunde

13:50-14:10 Break

14:10-14:55 Panel #3: Petter-Børre Furberg (Posten Bring), Torbjørn Eik-Nes (Accenture), Lianpi Hatzaw (Student, BI), moderated by Sindre Ræder (Cruit)
Around the world, companies are facing growing pressure to scale back their DEI efforts. When market demands clash with the commitment to build inclusive, equitable workplaces, how do leaders stay the course? In this panel, two top executives share how they continue to prioritize Diversity, Equity and Inclusion—even in uncertain times.

In the second part of the conversation, they are joined by a queer student preparing to enter the job market. They bring with them a new set of requirements for the companies they will join. What are these requirements and how are the companies preparing for the new generations of employees?

14:55-15:30 Conversation: Katharina Andresen (Ferd). Isabelle Ringnes and Brita Møystad Engseth
In this conversation, Katharina Andresen and Isabelle Ringnes open up about where their engagement with DEI comes from, what keeps it alive, and how they put their values into action in their daily work.From personal conviction to practical leadership, this session offers a candid look at what it means to lead with purpose in a world that doesn’t always make it easy.



‍Why attend Oslo Pride Business Forum?
Attending the Oslo Pride Business Forum offers numerous benefits for professionals and businesses. This event is a unique opportunity to engage with a diverse community, fostering inclusivity and innovation within the workplace. Here are what you can expect when attending the Oslo Pride Business Forum:

Educational Sessions: The event features a variety of panel discussions, debates and keynote speeches from experts. These sessions provide insights into best practices for creating inclusive workplaces, understanding the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ employees.

‍Innovation and Creativity: Diversity is a key driver of innovation. By attending the forum, businesses can gain fresh perspectives and ideas that can lead to creative solutions and improved business outcomes. 

‍Support and Advocacy: The forum provides a platform for discussing important issues related to LGBTQ+ rights and workplace equality. Attendees can learn about advocacy efforts, support initiatives, and how to contribute to the ongoing fight for equal rights. 

‍Networking Opportunities: The forum brings together a wide range of professionals, including business leaders, politicians, and advocates for LGBTQ+ rights. This creates a vibrant environment for networking, allowing attendees to build valuable connections.

‍Who can attend?
‍Everyone is welcome to attend, and especially business leaders, HR Professionals, entrepreneurs and community leaders will benefit from attending Oslo Pride Business Forum.

Speakers and program will be released April 2025.