YMCA DownsLink Group proudly took part in the Community Parade at Brighton Pride, bringing together around 20 staff members, young people, family members and friends to celebrate inclusion and stand in solidarity with LGBTQ+ communities across the city.
The atmosphere was joyful from the parade’s start on Hove Lawns. Marching alongside community groups from across Sussex, our team brought plenty 0f colour and enthusiasm while proudly carrying the message ‘Everybody belongs’ on banners and T-shirts.
Young people were at the heart of the day – our Brighton Youth Advice Centre (YAC) and Youth Ambassadors joined us, while a colleague’s teenagers and their friends helped lead the group through the city streets. Their confidence, enthusiasm and sense of fun set the tone for the day and brought our message of belonging to life for Brighton Pride.
Jo Van Rooyen (Trusts and Foundations Manager) said:
“I really wanted to take part in this fantastic Brighton event which celebrates diversity and inclusion in all its forms. It’s a joyous occasion to share with my children, and it was wonderful to spend time with colleagues while representing the great work our charity does for young people.”
Head of Communications and Fundraising, Debbie Watkins, reflected on the impact of having young people at the centre of the celebration:
“It made such a wonderful difference to have the young people and their energy with us – they brought so much to our group and it just wouldn’t have felt the same without them. They reminded us exactly why we do what we do.”
Walking, dancing and singing, the group enjoyed connecting with the cheering crowds along the route. A highlight was Head of Youth Advice and Support, Thomas Palser, taking part as his alter ego ‘Shirley’, who quickly became a crowd favourite among revellers lining the route.
Despite the summer heat, spirits remained high as colleagues enjoyed spending time together while proudly representing YMCA DownsLink Group’s values of inclusion, dignity and respect. The shared sense of purpose, fun and belonging reflected the charity’s commitment to working with heart and creating places where everyone feels welcome.
Co-organiser Katie Waters, Learning and Development Partner, reflected on the significance of returning to Pride:
“I’m over the moon we got to participate in Pride again, it’s been a while but we’re back! It feels more important than ever to parade with Pride. We want to show the city that we stand with the LGBTQ+ community and we believe everyone should feel able to celebrate who they are.”
Director of People and Programmes, Jayne Grier, summed up the day:
“What an amazing day we had representing YMCA DownsLink Group and all our services in the Community Parade at Pride 2026. Our first time in a while and we will be back!”
