Activism, Allyship, and Advocacy: Turning Passion into Action
Speaker: Laïla El-Métoui, award-winning Equity and Wellbeing Educator
“Activism begins with small, intentional actions. Let’s turn your passion into meaningful impact!”
In this interactive session, award-winning Equity and Wellbeing Educator, Laïla El-Métoui, discusses how to make a difference. Laïla explores the powerful roles of activism, allyship, and advocacy in driving meaningful change. Whether you're passionate about social justice, climate action or another issue close to your heart, this session will equip you with the tools and confidence to take action.
You’ll gain:
• A clear understanding of the differences between allyship, advocacy, and activism.
• Inspiring personal stories of activism in action.
• A practical list of actions you can take - from signing petitions to organising demonstrations and writing to your MP.
• Hands-on activities to help you map your passion to actionable steps.
You can find more LGBT+ History Month sessions at LGBT+ History Month 2025 | Virtual Village Hall | Royal Voluntary Service
Find more information about LGBT+ History Month at https://lgbtplushistorymonth.co.uk/
Video time
60 minutes
About Laïla
Laïla El-Métoui is an award-winning equity and wellbeing educator with over 30 years of experience in education and inclusion with a deep commitment to social justice. Laïla is the founder of Pride in Education and Educating Out Racism, Proud London Councils and the pan-London LGBTQ+ staff network.
Her dedication to inclusive spaces earned her recognition as the Stonewall Lesbian Role Model of the Year 2020 and she was named in the Top 100 Pride Power List 2021. In 2023, Laïla was a finalist for Trans Ally of the Year at the Trans in the City Awards and secured a spot on the National Diversity Power List Honours List Top 50.
She was also shortlisted for the Rainbow Honours 2023 for her work with UK Queer Arabs (now SWANA Queers), which she also founded. She is a member of UN Women UK and is a leading figure in the fight for LGBTIQA+ equity and the global justice movement.
See more from LGBT+ History Month
This February, we’re honouring LGBT+ History Month with this year’s theme: Activism and Social Change—a tribute to the incredible impact LGBT+ people have had in shaping a more inclusive world.
Join us for a series of thought-provoking sessions featuring: Stephen Hart – Actor, radio presenter, and speaker with the Terrence Higgins Trust Positive Voices programme. Caroline Gillwood – Head of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion at Royal Voluntary Service. Laïla El-Métoui – Award-winning equity and wellbeing educator, founder of LEM Education. Claire Bell – Deputy Membership and PR Manager at Listening Books.
Together, we’ll explore the power of activism, the stories behind social change, and the ongoing journey towards equality. Be part of this impactful celebration of change and inclusion!
