ABOUT QUEER CONSULTING NETWORK

Queer Consulting Network is a New York based charitable corporation under the New York Not-for-Profit Corporation Law and is in the process of applying for 501(c)(3) status. It focuses on networking and community building for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals.

OUR MISSION

Our core pillars are Networking Opportunities, Professional Development, and Workplace Advocacy. Here, all feel safe, valued, and empowered, with equal access to opportunities, celebrating the unique contributions of all its members.

OUR VISION

Queer Consulting Network envisions a world where LGBTQ+ individuals build thriving communities, essential skills, and confidence through our core pillars of networking opportunities, professional development, and advocacy. Here, all feel safe, valued, and empowered, with equal access to opportunities, celebrating the unique contributions of all its members.

OUR CORE VALUES

Visibility: We value the importance of visibility for the LGBTQ+ community, both in terms of representation in mainstream media and in creating safe spaces where individuals can express their true selves.
Credibility: We prioritize building trust with our community and stakeholders, through transparency, accountability, and a commitment to ethical practices.
Courage: We recognize the importance of taking bold and courageous action to advance LGBTQ+ rights and advocate for social justice, even in the face of adversity
Empathy: We believe in the power of empathy and compassion to create connections and foster understanding, and we strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all.
Diversity: We celebrate and embrace diversity within the LGBTQ+ community, recognizing the unique experiences and perspectives of each individual.
Equality: We are committed to promoting equality and combating discrimination within the LGBTQ+ community.
Partnership: We believe in the power of partnership and collaboration, and we work closely with other organizations, individuals, and allies to advance our mission.
Community: We prioritize building a strong and supportive LGBTQ+ community, through events, outreach, and initiatives that bring people together and foster a sense of belonging.
Adaptability: We recognize the importance of being adaptable and responsive to the changing needs of the LGBTQ+ community, and we strive to evolve and innovate in our approach to advocacy and outreach.

WHO WE ARE?

Board of Directors

Ahmet Aydogan (he/him)

Co-Founder & Executive Director

Senior Business Consultant

Originating from Turkey, Ahmet's upbringing has woven a rich tapestry of experiences that shape his worldview. His academic journey culminated in the attainment of an MBA from Iona University, showcasing his commitment to excellence. As a Senior Business Transformation Consultant specializing in the Retail sector, Ahmet adeptly refines business strategies to align with the distinct demands of Retail enterprises.
Beyond his professional role, Ahmet's unwavering dedication to fostering inclusivity and empowerment within the LGBTQ+ community radiates brightly. His unyielding efforts have not only united voices but have also become a catalyst for positive change. In his continued pursuit of a stronger and more equitable future, Ahmet eagerly brings his passion and expertise to this organization, enriching the consulting landscape through a lens of diversity and progress.

Bora Bayraktaroglu (he/him)

Co-Founder & Treasury

SAP Consultant

Bora was born and raised in Turkey. As Senior SAP Consultant in Supply Chain area, Bora optimizes business processes based on unique requirements of manufacturing companies. He has consistently demonstrated a passion for uniting the LGBTQ+ community. Bora feels privileged to be a board member of the non-profit organization and is devoted to supporting its growth and prosperity.

Juan Lopez Gutierrez (he/him)

Secretary

Senior Executive Culture & Engagement

Juan Lopez Gutierrez is a strategic HR leader with experience in Culture and Engagement, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Talent Acquisition, and Learning and Development. He is a proud first-generation, LGBTQ+, Mexican American who is passionate about creating inclusive and equitable workplaces. He has successfully implemented various innovative and impactful programs and initiatives that have enhanced the attraction, retention, engagement, and development of diverse and talented employees across different organizations. He is also committed to helping individuals and teams reach their full potential through leadership development and coaching. He is excited to bring his expertise to Queer Consulting nonprofit, where he can contribute to its mission of advancing LGBTQ rights and inclusion through research, education, and advocacy.

Executive Committee

Estevan Domingo (he/him)

Networking & Marketing Committee Director

Designer

Estevan is a Packaging and Product Designer who has worked in the fashion industry for the past 10 years. Growing up in Alabama as a first-generation Guatemalan American, he was always aware that there was a lack of representation for minority individuals like himself. Not accepting this reality, he has always pushed himself to get involved in organizations to help remedy this issue. While studying at Auburn University he was the President of the Auburn Latino Association of Students (ALAS) and Events Coordinator for the Industrial Design Student Association. In both roles, he strived to bring visibility to both student groups and provide its members with education and resources to help further their experiences on campus and in the future through networking opportunities. He is excited for the opportunity to use all his leadership skills and design expertise to help further other individuals in the LGBTQ+ community through the queer-focused non-profit organization.

Matthew Jones (he/him)

Podcast Production Director

Podcast Producer

Matthew has 15+ years of experience in content creation, marketing, and leadership, gaining his experience at Disney, WeWork, Mindspace, and producing numerous podcasts for businesses and entrepreneurs. As a producer, he excels in creating a unique and innovative go-to-market strategy, excellence in production quality, and successful launches of shows with long-lasting impact. He as a growing player in the podcast industry with 9 shows produced and counting, hundreds of episodes, and multiple awards.