“When people think about diversity & inclusion, they don’t often think about sex workers but they’re some of the most marginalised people globally in different communities so it feels natural to consider them.”

Alex Feis-Bryce (he/him) is an award-winning third sector leader, campaigner and policy adviser with a track record of driving social change and services to support some of the most marginalised and oppressed people in society.

He’s the CEO of Diversity Role Models, a charity that delivers anti-bullying & diversity training in schools to students, staff & governors as well as parents & careers. His incredible career spans working as a political advisor, co-founding sex- worker safety charity National Ugly Mugs and working internationally advising organisations supporting sex workers and LGBTQ+ people.

Alex describes himself as a “weird little kid”who was rather eccentric & chose to wear big glasses! He even created his own history museum in the garden shed. This was stifled during his teenage years which he found frightening but it’s something he lent into more during the freedom of sixth form colleague and today. Throwing himself into football as a way of fitting-in has resulted in a love of the sport which brings him peace & joy.

Alex’s work has also been hugely shaped by his personal experiences. On his first night out in Manchester after starting university, Alex was raped & during this conversation, he shares how he dealt with this in his own way, the positive responses he’s received from talking about his experience and how this led to his roles with Survivors UK and We Are Survivors.

Contrary to how many other CEOs are perceived, Alex shared how he veers towards being conflict avoidant in work & relationships where he tends to focus on meeting the needs of others. A trait says a lot about the way Alex shows up in the world, his values & compassion.

We talk about his early political career & the MP who had a huge influence on him, a mutual love of the book ‘The Dice Man’ by Luke Reinhart & the importance of Diversity Role Models for young people today. Their work is under threat due to pulled government funding. Their crowdfunding campaign, with a target of £100k, is crucial in ensuring they can continue their anti-bullying workshops in schools & collegues. So if you can donate, it would be hugely appreciated and you can do so here: https://www.iglyo.org/opportunities/drm-fundraiser-2025.

His contribution was recognised earlier this year when he was named in the Pride Power List which celebrates the 100 most “powerful, dedicated and wonderful people within the LGBTQIA community who do everything in their power to make LGBTQIA life that little bit brighter.” You’ll hear why during this episode.

PLEASE NOTE: This episode contains conversations about sexual abuse & rape so please take care of yourself whilst listening.