Embracing Authenticity: Insights from Humpreet 🌈
People · 26 June 2023Alex Carril
Through a series of questions and heartfelt answers, Humpreet Singh sheds light on their experience of being queer in India. They also discuss the inclusive environment they’ve experienced at Revolut as a KYC Support Specialist, and the message of encouragement they have for fellow queer individuals.
Tell us about yourself! Can you share a bit about your background, both personally and professionally?
Hi, I’m Humpreet, and I’m from a small city in northern India. I currently live in Bangalore, as I love the weather here. I’ve been super crazy about being an astronaut since my childhood, so I'm hoping for a chance someday.
I’ve worked in a few different fields, most exciting being a vegan sous-chef in Delhi during 2019. I worked in customer support after that for a while, and joined Revolut in October 2022. It's been an amazing journey, and I'm looking forward to a lot more here.
Could you share your experience of being a queer person in India?
I came out as a bicurious person in 2019 exactly 1 year after Article 377, which used to criminalise homosexuality in India, was struck down by the Supreme court.
It's very open here now as pride movements in different cities are taking place, and we’re waiting for a judgement on same-sex marriages from the Supreme court.
I was always a feminine person since my childhood, but I never realised it at that time, and also I didn't know much. I still haven't come out to my parents or anyone in family/relatives, as it's a taboo for them. I also came out as a gender-fluid person last year, as it felt like the right time. It's a long way to go.
Have you been involved with any LGBTQ+ advocacy initiatives in India, and if so, what’s been the goal or impact?
In the past, I was involved with a non-profit organisation for advocacy of LGBTQ+ rights here. Our goal was to promote awareness about same-sex relationships, and the difference between gender and sexuality. We even led campaigns and lectures in schools to inform the younger generation. The impact was very positive. It was great seeing the children questioning more, and being interested to know about the struggles faced by the community.
Has being an out queer person shaped your perspective on LGBTQ+ rights and social acceptance?
Yes, being an out queer person has brought me in touch with so many people from the community and made me aware of many new things. I didn't know before that homosexuality was criminalised here in India. I’ve learned a lot, and I’m looking forward to doing more for my community.
How has Revolut created an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ employees like yourself?
I was super glad to see how the company is so open about it, and has a dedicated Pride Guild and Slack channel. The company has created an inclusive environment and has been doing a lot more each year. As a remote worker, I’m looking forward to the Pride Rev Social in Bangalore and meeting other queer people here.
Are there any examples when you feel supported at work to be yourself?
One example is when I come to work in the office or go to Rev Social events with lipstick or my nails painted, I’m not ashamed and receive beautiful compliments from colleagues.
What advice would you give to someone struggling to come to terms with their own identity?
I’d advise you to accept the struggle and challenges first. Do not fear anything. Go through the process — do not rush, and try to be open about asking for help in the community and at work.
At Revolut, we embrace diversity and invite talented LGBTQ+ individuals to join the rocket ship, where they can bring their authentic selves to work, feel empowered, and thrive.