In February 2019, Channel 4 broadcasted a documentary series entitled “The Making of Me” featuring, amongst others, Joanne Lockwood who was transitioning from male to female.

The documentary was filmed over a three‑year period and revealed the physical transformations of those who took part who were changing their gender, and how they and their families came to terms with it.

Joanne’s personal story and its effect on those around her were featured, as did her incredible hair transformation, which made such an impact it was the headline feature in Channel 4’s “Gogglebox” (22/02/19) with viewers praising her new appearance.  She will recount her experience as a contributor to the documentary and the Gogglebox appearance which will allow the audience to become better understand some of the impacts that this change had on her and her family.

During this fireside chat, Joanne will give a heartfelt and authentic account of her transitional journey with anecdotes from her life about what sparked her and what held her back.

Her motivational and emotional story of self-belief and empowerment is relevant to business leaders the world over.

She will talk about how she sold her IT business and not only Gender Transitioned back in 2017 but also how she started a brand-new D&I practice, whilst overcoming her own imposter syndrome and limiting beliefs.  She has since been through 2 hair transplants and spoken on stage to audiences around the globe.

Joanne will happily take questions from the host and unscripted ones from the audience.   Some of the takeaways will include:

• Understanding some of the challenges she found in the early stages of her transition in the recruitment process and in the workplace environment.
• Highlighting areas for colleagues and managers to provide support not only to a person who is transgender or non-binary but also their close family and friends who might also be struggling to come to terms with them.
• Learning how to be a better and more effective ally to the LGBTQ+ communities.

After attending this talk, you should leave with an understanding of the world through Joanne’s lens, develop tools and strategies to support friends, family and colleagues who may be going through their own struggles and journey and – most importantly – be entertained, inspired, and enlightened.