ABOUT
A DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION (DEI) DIGITAL SPORTS PLATFORM
Compete Proud is the leading voice for LGBTIQ+ representation in sports, advocating for inclusivity, diversity, equity, and visibility at every level—from grassroots initiatives to the Olympic stage. Founded by Olympian Javier Raya and supported by the IOC Young Leaders programme, Compete Proud empowers athletes by sharing their stories, fostering safe spaces, and driving positive change. The platform provides educational tools, workshops, and consultancy to sporting organizations and athletes, addressing critical issues like LGBTQI+ rights, gender equality, and accessibility. Through partnerships like Pride House Paris 2024, Compete Proud is creating a lasting impact by increasing LGBTQIA+ visibility and promoting a more inclusive sporting community.
Javier Raya OLY
Founder and Managing Director
Javier Raya is a Spanish Olympian figure skater, DEI advocate, and founder of Compete Proud, a platform focused on LGBTQI+ inclusion in sports. With over 20 years of experience, Javier represented Spain at the European and World Championships, and the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics. He founded Compete Proud to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion within sports and is an IOC Young Leader (2021–2024). Through his work, he aims to empower athletes, advance social impact, and ensure a more inclusive sporting environment. Javier holds a University degree in Media and Communications and an Executive Masters in Sport Management.
Nikki Symmons
Athlete’s Engagement and Partnerships, CP Global
Nikki Symmons is a former international hockey player, LGBTQIA+ advocate, and communications professional with 13 years of elite sports experience. As the first female athlete in Ireland to publicly come out, Nikki has been a trailblazer for LGBTQIA+ inclusion in sports. She currently works with Compete Proud, where she leads athlete and ambassador engagement to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Nikki is also Head of Partnerships for STRIPES Global at Philip Morris International, where she drives initiatives supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. She co-authored a chapter on LGBTQIA+ inclusion in sports and is passionate about leveraging her experience to empower others and advocate for positive change.
Matthew Mitcham OLY
Education and Diversity, CP Global
Matthew Mitcham is an Olympic Gold Medalist, entertainer, and LGBTQIA+ advocate with over 15 years of experience in elite sport and public life. As the first openly gay Olympic Gold Medalist, Matthew made history at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. After his career in diving, Matthew transitioned to a successful career in entertainment, keynote speaking, and advocacy. He works with Compete Proud to promote education and diversity within sports and beyond. As a passionate advocate for mental health and LGBTQIA+ rights, Matthew uses his platform to inspire athletes and audiences to embrace inclusivity and champion social change.
Gema Hassen-Bey PLY
Inclusion and Accessibility, CP Spain
Gema Hassen-Bey is a pioneering Paralympic fencer, social entrepreneur, and inclusion advocate. She became the first Spanish athlete to win a fencing medal at the 1992 Barcelona Paralympic Games and went on to represent Spain at five consecutive Paralympic Games. Gema founded Bey ProAction, an initiative dedicated to improving accessibility for people with reduced mobility, and is a key figure in promoting diversity and inclusion in sport. As a speaker and mentor, she works with organizations and sports teams to foster leadership, teamwork, and diversity management. Gema’s mission is to inspire others to break barriers, embodying her motto, “Si te mueves tú, el mundo se mueve contigo” (If you move, the world moves with you).
WHAT WE OFFER
Provides a safe space for the LGBTQI+ community in sport.
Highlights the stories of proud athletes who throughout their journey have become D.E.I. role models.
Offers educational tools, online webinars, in-person workshops and consultancy to other athletes, sporting bodies and corporate organizations.
Online content, webinars, workshops and consultancy, on the following topics:
PARTNERS
FIND OUT ABOUT THE DIFFERENT PARTNERSHIP LEVELS AND BENEFITS!
YOUR BRAND CAN MAKE A REAL IMPACT MAKING SPORT MORE INCLUSIVE
