In this Q&A, Oded Livyatan, EMBA London 2027, shares what Pride means to him as a member of the London Business School community, reflecting on the importance of authenticity, inclusion and belonging. He also discusses his involvement with the Out in Business Club and how the club has helped foster connections, support, and visibility for LGBTQ+ students. Finally, Oded offers advice for current and prospective students in the LGBTQ+ community on making the most of their LBS experience and finding confidence in bringing their whole selves to business school.
What has been the most meaningful part of being involved with Out in Business at LBS?
The most meaningful part has been realizing that at LBS there’s no distinction based on sector or gender. You are who you are, and you’re evaluated according to your personal abilities every step of the way. Of all the institutions I’ve studied at, this is the one where it was easiest for me to be out and completely open about my identity.
How do you think Pride Month conversations in business schools have evolved over the past few years?
I don’t have a multi-year perspective, since I’ve just finished my first year, but I feel the conversation exists without being overly prominent. My personal belief leans toward a non-targeted discourse that enables the equal existence of all genders and sectors -meaning, that we reach a day when there’s no need for the conversation at all.
Have there been any moments at LBS where you felt the club created real impact – either professionally or personally?
I’ve felt several times throughout the year that the comfort I feel at the school really matters. Quite a few students approached me -both from my own cohort and from other years and programmes – who felt comfortable opening up and sharing their personal identity, and how it had affected their careers for better or worse. Together we sensed that there’s still a way to go in how parts of the community are perceived in the business sector, but that there’s definitely continuous improvement.
What advice would you give to incoming LGBTQ+ students who are thinking about joining the community at LBS?
I think difference of any kind can be a strength, just as easily as it can be an obstacle. My advice is to carry our different identities with pride and let them become a force that drives us forward rather than one that holds us back. Hiding can turn us into a version of ourselves that’s too far from who we really are, and it often prevents people from getting to know us and trusting us – which can ultimately keep us from advancing or achieving our goals.