American Express, principal partner of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras and Sydney WorldPride 2023, has teamed up with Brisbane pop duo, Lisa Origliasso (she/her) and Jessica Origliasso (she/her) from The Veronicas to launch an initiative, With You &Proud. It celebrates champions within the LGBTQIA+ community and their supporters who proudly back them.
What is the With You &Proud initiative about?
With You &Proud forms part of American Express’ broader &Proud campaign designed to encourage support of the LGBTQIA+ community during Sydney WorldPride. The campaign will celebrate the myriad of ways the community expresses their pride and their advocates.
Joining The Veronicas to lend their support are celebrities like NBL player Isaac Humphries (he/him) and MasterChef and restaurateur Khanh Ong (he/him). Through social media, each will speak to how their support networks have been vital in their journeys of self-expression.
Australians can also nominate an individual they would like to recognise for their support to the LGBTQIA+ community to attend a Sydney WorldPride experience including tickets to sold out events, chance to experience exclusive meet-and-greets, and dining and entertainment vouchers. Fifteen recipients and their nominators will be selected by representatives from organisations, Sydney WorldPride and American Express’ Pride+ Colleague Network.
What does the partnership mean for American Express?
Corrina Davison, MD, American Express ANZ said: “American Express is proud to launch an initiative that pays tribute to individuals who have made a positive difference within the LGBTQIA+ community and share an important message about the power of allyship.”
“As an organisation committed to diversity, equity and inclusion, we recognise the magnitude of what this world-class festival represents and the extraordinary courage it can often take for a person to freely express their true selves. With You &Proud highlights that having someone by your side showing love and support can be pivotal in someone’s journey.”
American Express’ Sydney WorldPride partnership continues its commitment to supporting a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace and society. With You &Proud extends American Express’ My First Mardi Gras initiative launched in 2022 and enabled LGBTQIA+ community members to experience the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras for the first time.
Kate Wickett, Chief Executive Officer Sydney WorldPride said: “With You &Proud is just another way that American Express continues to support the LGBTQIA+ community and Sydney WorldPride at a grassroots level, recognising individuals who have made a difference within the community and really highlighting personal stories of pride. Sydney WorldPride is thrilled to be working with American Express and The Veronicas throughout this campaign.”
What does the partnership mean for The Veronicas?
The Veronicas are official ambassadors of With You &Proud and staunch supporters of the LGBTQIA+ community. Commenting on the partnership, Lisa and Jessica Origliasso said: “For Jessie, as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and for both of us as passionate allies, we’re honoured to bring American Express’ With You &Proud initiative to life – we can’t wait to celebrate this incredible community and share our personal stories of pride together.”
“Having grown up deeply involved with the LGBTQIA+ community from a young age and creating safe space for all at our shows for 18 years, representing Australia for WorldPride and being part of this incredible initiative will be an absolute personal and career highlight.”
To nominate someone, complete the With You &Proud nomination form here by 11:59pm AEDT on Sunday 29 January 2023. Learn more about American Express’ involvement here.
