Matt Lindley Pride Month Speaker Keynote ‘My Boss, Changed My Life’
28th Mar 2024
In the lead-up to Pride Month, Matt Lindley shared his inspirational keynote; My Boss Changed My Life – based on his extraordinary time in the Royal Air Force as a closeted gay pilot when the ban on homosexuals serving in the RAF was enforced.
As a Pride Month Speaker, Matt Lindley is truly inspirational. With an existing and motivational story to tell, look at his talk teaser below and get a feel for how Matt could enhance your event as your Pride Month Speaker.
MATT LINDLEY KEYNOTE OUTLINE
Airline and former Royal Air Force pilot Matt Lindley talks candidly about being one of the first openly gay pilots in the UK Armed Forces. Listen to his journey of having a childhood dream to fly, almost crushed by a ban on gay serving personnel in the Forces. Matt describes how he consciously suppressed his sexuality and joined an organisation, knowing that being ‘out’ could have resulted in a possible prison sentence (The Armed Forces Act). His story is one of self-motivation, determination, and drive. Matt fulfilled a boyhood dream and qualified as a Hawk fast jet pilot; however, soon after, high workload, geographical isolation and operating in a non-inclusive culture resulted in a catastrophic mistake at work.
Matt draws on his knowledge of human performance factors and psychology to self-analyse the impact of mental health and stress on his work performance and well-being. Listen to the importance of allies and the role of an inspiring, inclusive line manager on Matt’s ultimate success in the Armed Forces.
But this is not just another ‘coming out story’; Pride Month Speaker Matt uses his experience to discuss how the RAF positively adapted its culture from one of open hostility towards gay personnel to acceptance and support.
“I cannot recommend Matt highly enough. He talked to the Close Brothers community about his journey, which resonated incredibly well with all colleagues, not just those from the LQBQT community. His candour and honesty connected with people, and the ties with wider mental wellness and resilience were topical given the current pandemic. His humour shone through, and it was one of the best received external speakers we have had to date. A thorough recommendation…”
Close Brothers
“It was brilliant – he was great, super engaging, and people were hanging on to his every word… EVEN ON ZOOM! We have had some great feedback already, so we are really pleased”
J P Morgan
“From the very first briefing call, Matt was just a pleasure to work with – warm and charismatic and, more importantly, took the time to understand what it was we were trying to achieve and was very open to tailoring his talk where he could to really fit the content and purpose of the day. We have been inundated with feedback from our employees, who were blown away by the bravery of Matt’s story. He has certainly left an impression, and it’s a talk that I’m sure they will remember for some time.”
Metro Bank
“The delivery by Matt was exceptional; his take on his experiences in the RAF really hit the mark and his humour and storytelling were appreciated by so many. From those I have discussed this with, they were extremely impressed with his presentation, there was so much contained within it, that it really gave food for thought on how the RAF was then and how it is now. His range was truly amazing, from his sexuality, his drive, motivation, mental health and leadership (being able to listen). Everyone was able to take something from it.
Truly remarkable, and in all honesty, I am so glad he delivered for us”
RAF Cranwell
“Matt’s natural ability to connect with his audience, energy, and positive vibe, captivated our audience with his incredible story. His grit and determination really resonated with so many people in the audience. The presentation that Matt put together really enhanced his speech. It was one of most captivating talks I’ve ever been to”
Hyperion X Insurance
“It wasn’t just a lovely talk; I got a lot from it, which I will take away and implement in my working day/home life. I will encourage my team to do the same …”
Co-operative Bank
Matt Lindley is just one of our incredible Pride Month Speakers. View them all HERE
Learn more about our PRIDE MONTH Speakers and upcoming awareness days on our events calendar. This will help you plan ahead and hire the perfect speaker for the occasion!
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