On Saturday 10th September 2022 the Derby Pride event went ahead after much consideration. As an event sponsor it also fell on us to decide, after much social media input on the event running after the Queen’s death, whether to be there.
It didn’t take much consideration to pop along with our gazebo, give aways and special offer because our decision to sponsor the event had been about supporting the LGBQT+ community in the city where our base is.
Loading the car, unloading the car, getting drenched, battling with a brand-new gazebo, fanning out leaflets, popping pens into mugs and tying stuff to poles was all part of the mad rush of getting ready for the gates to open.
Seleena and Kevin then had a quick change into their Ascentant Accountancy t-shirts and were ready to greet the crowds.
And it was busy. A respectful vibe was in place, where people could talk and connect with other people in the community and those allies there to support everyone in attendance.
A two-minute silence for Her Majesty followed by a proclamation of Good Save the King was all part of the day.
Catching up with friends, meeting new people, talking accountancy to people who wanted to come and work for us plus those who needed a new accountant “Dad needs a new accountant” was heard not once but twice! Whilst children helped themselves to flags, stickers and sweets the adults talked about how our accountancy practice has been getting ready to service the area where Kevin and Seleena have grown up and now do business. Derbyshire holds a special place in both of our hearts so it made total sense to be talking to Derby bases business people in a community Kevin has long been part of.
From tree surgeons to pub owners, beauticians to business directors. Everyone was welcome at our stall for a help yourself to our branded booty or a full in depth conversation.
“My highlight of the day was talking to a lady who runs LGBQT+ awareness sessions in SEND schools across the county, I can’t wait to introduce her to the schools where I volunteer because everyone deserves to be included and respected. I also generally enjoyed the chit chat with people who didn’t need an accountant and just wanted to talk about being at Pride or the death of the Queen or something about Derby. A great event and a privilege to be there!” says Seleena
“We had a fab time at Derby Pride on Saturday, thanks to everyone involved. We were asked a question several times… “why is an accountant at Pride?”. Well we were approached by people looking to set up Community Interest Companies (CIC) or Charitable groups to serve the LGBT community, which they would not have approached the average accountancy practice to discuss. Having a safe space to discuss their ambitions, without judgement meant we had some fab conversations with amazing and inspiring people. And that is why Ascentant was at Pride!” says Kevin
The organisers said “On Saturday approximately 5000 of you came to Derby Pride 2022 at Markeaton Park, coming together as a community in a beautiful display of love, mutual support, and respect.
We thank you all for respectfully observing the two minute silence at the start of Pride day, as we came together as one to pay tribute to and show respect for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
The Derby Pride Committee would like to thank you all for coming on Saturday and for making it a very special day. Thank you to our sponsors and the organisations that have supported us, without whom the event would not have been possible. Thank you to the acts, performers, DJs and the stage management team for keeping us all entertained. Thank you to the caterers, bars, and stall holders. Special thanks to our hard working team, the security team, and everyone who volunteered to help on the day – you all excelled yourselves.
We hope you all had a most enjoyable day and we look forward to seeing you at Markeaton Park on Saturday 9th September next year for Derby Pride 2023.”
Thank you to the organisers of Pride, a lot of hard work had clearly gone into the day and it was held with sensitivity to the current feelings of the country. People were central to the day and it was nice to speak to so many people and one storm trooper!
Ascentant Accountancy are Accountant’s based in Derby who specialise in working with Small Businesses across the Country – Get in touch on 01332 981920 or info@ascentant.co.uk to discuss your needs.
We can be found at Suite 5 Keynes House, Alfreton Road, Derby, DE21 4AS.
