2024 LGBTQ+ Workplace Alliance Awards
Presented at the 2024 LGBTQ+ Workplace Alliance Summit - September 12, 2024
The Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce three new annual awards, particularly for our LGBTQ+ Workplace Alliance program. We want to highlight best-in-class organizations and individuals that are moving the bar on LGBTQ+ inclusion in the region. We are excited to launch these new awards and celebrate our inaugural Honorees.
B/ERG Executive Sponsor Impact Award
Awarded to an individual in executive leadership who sponsors their company’s LGBTQ+ Business or Employee Resource Group (B/ERG) and leads with determination and inspiration to make a big impact toward LGBTQ+ inclusion within their company and beyond. This person is an exemplary role model for other Executive Sponsors and DEI leaders.
Natasha Cherednichenko, President, Certarus Ltd.
Executive Sponsor, Certarus PRIDE Employee Resource Group
The Chamber is proud to recognize Natasha Cherednichenko (she/her), President of Chamber Impact Partner Certarus Ltd. with the 2024 LGBTQ+ Workplace Alliance B/ERG Executive Sponsor Impact Award. Natasha has been an outstanding Executive Sponsor since the launch of Certarus PRIDE Employee Resource Group in 2021. Her leadership and support of the Certarus PRIDE has been instrumental in the group’s early success engaging staff from Houston to Midland, Texas all the way to Calgary, Canada.
Rising Star B/ERG Award
Awarded to a LGBTQ+ Business or Employee Resource Group (B/ERG) in their first one to five years that is making strides for LGBTQ+ inclusion at their company through their commitment, dedication and positive outcomes. Their work and impact has advanced a culture of LGBTQ+ inclusion and acceptance within their company and beyond.
NRG One Space - LGBTQIA+ Business Resource Group
The Chamber is proud to recognize Impact Partner, NRG and its LGBTQIA+ Business Resource Group - One Space, with the 2024 LGBTQ+ Workplace Alliance Rising Star B/ERG Award. Since the launch of NRG One Space in 2021, the group has grown from about 14 members to its current member roster of 91. The leadership of NRG One Space has built a strong working relationship with DEI groups and through their work has joined Pride events in Houston, New Hope, Calgary, and Salt Lake City.
B/ERG Outstanding Leadership Award
Awarded to an individual who demonstrates outstanding leadership within their company’s LGBTQ+ Business or Employee Resource Group (B/ERG). This individual is a strong role model for other leaders in the B/ERG space. They also meaningfully engage with the Chamber, through the partnership, and are a strong champion for the work and mission of the organization both inside and outside of their company.
Jorge Ramos, Chapter Director, United EQUAL Business Resource Group – IAH Chapter
The Chamber is proud to recognize Jorge Ramos (he/him), IAH Chapter Director, of Chamber Impact Partner United’s EQUAL Business Resource Group with the 2024 LGBTQ+ Workplace Alliance B/ERG Outstanding Leadership Award. Jorge assumed the role of Chapter Director with EQUAL in November 2023. Through his leadership, EQUAL - IAH Chapter has built safe spaces at the airport through coordination with the corporate office and airport operations. Also, Jorge has stepped up to champion the partnership with the Chamber helping his BRG members maximize United’s membership in the Chamber. He currently dedicates his time and talent as an inaugural member of the LGBTQ+ Workplace Alliance Council.