Activism in Action
Elena Joy Thurston is an inspirational LGBTQ+ speaker, trainer, and founder of the nonprofit Pride and Joy Foundation - which is dedicated to building self-awareness and safety for LGBTQ families and their allies. A Mormon mom of four who lost her marriage, her church, and her community when she came out as a lesbian, Elena’s viral TEDx talk on surviving conversion therapy has been viewed 40,000+ times and landed her media and speaking opportunities with ABC, CBS, FOX, Boston’s First Event, Seacoast Wellness Series, and THRIVE. Elena inspires her audiences to learn how Emotional Intelligence can improve company morale and productivity, changing members' lives in a practical way.
work with elena
Keynote and speaking engagements
Whether you’re holding a virtual or in person event, Elena Joy brings unique perspective to any kind of event/gathering.
From tales of being a late in life lesbian and ex-Mormon life to building authentic, safe and inclusive workplaces, Elena Joy can deliver it all.
inclusion trainings
This work is for organizations ready to do the work even when the rest of the world isn’t looking. In order to retain and engage your best employees, it’s crucial to invest in their development AND their wellbeing. As a DEI consultant with a focus on LGBTQ+ inclusion, Elena Joy’s “secret sauce” is facilitating inclusive team building and allyship training experiences that elevate the voices of marginalized employees, create safety belonging for all and that ensure this work continues year round. Participating organizations walk away with employees who are reengaged with their work, reinvested in their companies, and who have the capacity to sustain a culture where it is safe to speak up, ask questions, and bring your whole self into the workplace.
Leadership Development
Are you an LGBTQ+ professional seeking Executive Coaching? Are you interested in learning how to speak up with impact, moving your people to take action? You found the right spot.
Elena Joy offers Executive Coaching for LGBTQ+ Leaders with a focus on vocal empowerment. Click below to schedule a chat.