Community Ally
Recipient
Akshay Tyagi
India
I’m Akshay Tyagi (he/him), the Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group and a Founding Member of the Keshav Suri Foundation. My work is driven by a commitment to creating environments that celebrate diversity and foster equity for marginalized groups, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, acid attack survivors, and women. My initiatives focus on building safe, supportive spaces where individuals across all identities feel valued and included.
I’ve had the privilege of receiving scholarships to attend the Better Leader Summit in New York and Toronto, which broadened my perspective and equipped me with global insights to enhance my work in DEI. I was also honored to represent at the Australia India Youth Dialogue, where I connected with inspiring leaders and shared experiences on bridging gaps and advancing equity.
Through these experiences, I’ve strengthened my commitment to promoting inclusivity, having sensitized 200 corporations and 100 educational institutions and collaborating with over 100 NGOs. Recognition through awards like the Red Achievers Award by the Ministry of Social Welfare, the Emerging HR Leader Award by Times of India, and the Trans Ally Award by Tweet Foundation motivates me to continue pushing DEI as a pillar of growth, making a lasting impact on communities around me.
Brief information about your work
As the Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group and a Founding Member of the Keshav Suri Foundation, my work centers on creating meaningful opportunities for marginalized communities. I have been instrumental in devising skilling programs for the LGBTQIA+ community and to contribute to Initiatives like Aditya Nanda Scholarship, which supports individuals from LGBTQIA+ backgrounds in pursuing higher education, empowering them to thrive in their chosen fields. We also started Transaction Acting Workshops that help participants build confidence and communication skills, essential for breaking down barriers in the performing arts and media. These workshops focus on queering sports and entertainment, promoting inclusivity by challenging stereotypes and encouraging representation.
My commitment extends to workplace sensitisation wherein I have been to over 150 corporate organisations, to over 100 colleges and schools in India to administration and media sensitization, where I work with various organizations to train administration officers and also media professionals on LGBTQIA+ issues, fostering a more informed and respectful narrative in the public sphere. This work is crucial in reshaping perceptions and ensuring that diverse voices are heard and celebrated.
Through these initiatives, I strive to create a culture of inclusive world, advocating for environments where everyone can participate fully and authentically. By partnering with community organizations, I aim to uplift marginalized voices, ensuring they have a platform and the support needed to excel.
What one achievement you’ve accomplished that you’re most proud of? Why?
One achievement I’m particularly proud of is establishing The LaLiT’s Pure Love initiative, a comprehensive DEI program promoting inclusivity and support for marginalized communities, especially LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, and acid attack survivors. Creating Pure Love transformed our organizational culture through tangible actions, like implementing focussed skilling programs for the community members, gender-neutral restrooms, and revising health insurance to cover gender affirmation surgeries. We also conducted sensitization workshops for over 200 organizations, schools, and colleges. This initiative has profoundly impacted our team and the broader community, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and respected, making it a source of immense pride for me.
What do you find most challenging about your work? Why?
The most challenging aspect of my work is shifting mindsets and dismantling ingrained biases. While policies can create a framework for inclusivity, changing personal beliefs takes consistent effort and empathy. The hospitality industry often resists ideas like gender-neutral restrooms or health coverage for gender affirmation surgeries. DEI is not just a checklist; it requires buy-in from all levels. Each conversation or workshop is an opportunity to promote understanding, but change can be slow and emotionally taxing. However, every small step forward reinforces that our efforts are worthwhile in creating a truly equitable workplace.
What do you do to recharge your battery?
To recharge, I invest in people—meeting new individuals, hearing their stories, and learning from their experiences is my true source of energy. Connecting deeply with others, whether it’s friends, colleagues, or people from diverse backgrounds, renews my positivity and strengthens my commitment to DEI work. Each conversation brings fresh insights and fuels my passion, reminding me why inclusive spaces matter. Spending time with people and understanding their perspectives not only reboots me but also inspires me to approach my work with even greater purpose and drive, knowing it directly impacts real lives and creates lasting change.
What is your vulnerability and how do you overcome it?
My vulnerability lies in being deeply affected by the stories of those I work to support, which can sometimes lead to emotional exhaustion. Hearing firsthand about the struggles of marginalized individuals resonates strongly with me, making it challenging to detach and protect my own emotional well-being. To overcome this, I practice mindfulness and set boundaries, reminding myself that lasting change takes time and that I can only do my best each day. Regularly connecting with mentors and peers in DEI also provides a support system that helps me recharge, refocus, and approach my work with renewed resilience.
You have been nominated for the Community Ally category.
What was your reaction and please, tell us why?
I was genuinely honored and humbled by the nomination for the Community Ally category. This recognition means so much because it acknowledges the hard work, empathy, and dedication behind every initiative we drive. My work is deeply personal—every DEI effort and outreach program is aimed at creating a safer, more inclusive world where every person feels valued and seen. Being nominated reaffirms that these efforts are making a difference, not only within The LaLiT or Keshav Suri Foundation but also in the larger community. It inspires me to continue pushing for meaningful change, amplifying voices, and standing by those who need it most.
What is a warm/hopeful message that you would like to share with the communities in the Asia Pacific?
To all communities across the Asia Pacific: know that your identity, voice, and experiences matter deeply. As we work towards a more inclusive world, remember that every step forward, no matter how small, contributes to lasting change. Embrace your uniqueness, lean into your strengths, and never underestimate the power of your story. In unity, we’re unstoppable. Let’s continue building bridges, supporting one another, and creating spaces where everyone can thrive authentically. Together, we can shape a future where diversity is celebrated, inclusion is a given, and hope becomes reality. Today we may live in silhouettes of obscurity but tomorrow fame awaits us. Stay resilient—our best is yet to come.
