Queer Professionals

One of the lesser known groups that the Association supports is the Queer Professionals network. 

QP, as it's affectionately called by its members, consists of a number of groups of gay and lesbian professionals and business people. 

There is no limit to the size of the group but membership is limited to one person from a particular profession, business or job. For example, a group would have one solicitor, financial planner, caterer, masseur, etc. 

Although Queer Professionals do not have to be SGLBA members, the overwhelming majority are members of the Association and members derive great benefit from this. Groups meet fortnightly for breakfast meetings. QP serves a number of purposes. It is primarily designed to provide business development opportunities for people in small to medium business enterprises, though membership is not limited to SMEs. Generally, business development occurs through cross referrals among the group and by exploring business opportunities that fellow queer professionals may refer to their mates. 

However, QP serves a broader purpose. It provides an emotional and practical support role for professionals and business people who, quite often, lead independent lives. This support has been found to be invaluable for many members. Members have found that tossing around ideas and concepts with likeminded colleagues and friends is a great way to work through those challenges that face all business people. 

The SGLBA is looking to expand the Queer Professional network and is exploring ways that the association can provide value to the QP network. One area that we can provide practical support in is providing business and personal development guidance and education through the Associations Business Seminars. We are looking forward to working with Queer Professionals to design and present seminars that meet the specific needs of the members. 

The Association is also eager to facilitate cross group interaction where this is valuable and in the best interest for all QPs. 

If you would like to join any of our QP groups or would like more information about QP, Greg Reynolds, the QP Director will be only to happy to help. Greg can be reached at greg@whitehart.co.nz or on 0414 993 106