This individual has a personal story of coming out as gay, which was a transformative experience for them. They initially hid their true self due to fear of judgment and rejection in the workplace, particularly in sales roles where being openly LGBTQ+ might be seen as a liability. However, after joining a company like Neo4j that values diversity and openness, they were able to be themselves without fear of retribution or judgment. As a result, they feel empowered to share their experiences and support others who may be struggling with similar issues. They now proudly celebrate Pride and strive to create an inclusive environment in the workplace, believing that unity and diversity are key to strength and power.