In the “My Boss Changed My Life” workshop, Matt Lindley, Founder & CEO of Propel Performance, and former Royal Air Force pilot, shares his inspiring journey as one of the first openly gay pilots in the UK Armed Forces.
Matt Lindley He/Him
Founder & CEO of Propel Performance, Pilot, TEDx Speaker
Matt Lindley is an airline and ex RAF Royal Squadron Pilot. He shares his story of being one of the first openly gay pilots in the armed forces, a story of self-motivation, determination and drive which led to his dream of joining the RAF fulfilled.
In 1995 Matt was selected to join the UK Royal Air Force as a pilot. During his military career, he flew many aircraft including the Hawk fighter jet. In 2000 he was selected to fly Her Majesty The Queen, members of the UK Royal Family and Government worldwide, serving on The Royal Squadron. Whilst serving, he became a qualified flying instructor and VIP qualified Captain. He flew missions in the Sierra Leone, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. Matt was one of the first openly gay pilots in the RAF.
Training overview
Airline and former Royal Air Force pilot Matt Lindley talks candidly about being one of the first openly gay pilots in the UK Armed Forces. Listen to his journey of having a childhood dream to fly, almost crushed by a ban on gay personnel serving in the Forces.
Matt describes how he consciously suppressed his sexuality and joined an organisation knowing that being ‘out’ could have resulted in a possible prison sentence. His story is one of self-motivation, determination, and drive. Matt fulfilled a boyhood dream and qualified as a Hawk fighter jet pilot. Soon after qualifying however, high workload, geographical and emotional isolation, together with the work place banter associated a non inclusive culture, resulted in a catastrophic mistake at work.
Matt shares with the audience how a line manager transformed his professional and private life by demonstrating exceptional inclusive leadership, support and trust
But this is not just another ‘coming out story’, instead Matt uses his experience to discuss how the RAF positively adapted its culture from one of open hostility towards gay personnel, to acceptance and support.
Key Takeaways:
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* The Power of Allyship: Learn how inclusive leadership can transform both personal and professional lives.
* Building Trust: Matt emphasizes the importance of building teams grounded in trust and support.
This workshop is not just a “coming out” story, but a powerful narrative on the importance of allyship and inclusive leadership in creating environments where everyone can thrive.
Ready to empower your leaders? Contact us today to book Matt Lindley and learn how you can foster trust, support, and inclusivity in your team.
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