Rahul Upadhyay

I believe in transforming systems by centering marginalized voices, challenging social norms, and building structures of empathy, justice, and belonging. As a queer rights activist and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) facilitator, I bring nearly a decade of experience across grassroots organizing, global leadership, and institutional advocacy.

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I am the Founding Director of Gandhinagar Queer Pride Foundation (GQPF) — a pioneering LGBTQIA+ organization in Gujarat, India — where I have led transformative work including Pride marches, community support systems, youth-led activism, and gender sensitization workshops. Through this work, GQPF has become a leading voice in India’s Pride movement, especially in underrepresented regions where such visibility is both bold and vital.

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Globally, I serve as the Co-President of InterPride, the world’s oldest and largest LGBTQIA+ Pride membership organization. I’m proud to be the youngest and the first South Asian to hold this position in the organization’s 42-year history. I also co-chair the WorldPride Committee, overseeing one of the most significant global LGBTQIA+ events and its bidding process — ensuring equitable representation and participation from diverse regions, especially the Global South.

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In 2020, I was the Lead Curator for Global Pride, the largest virtual Pride event ever held, where I managed and produced content across time zones, highlighting voices from over 10 countries in Asia. This event reached over 57 million viewers worldwide and marked a milestone in digital queer visibility during the pandemic.

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My work spans continents — I have been invited to speak and represent India at global human rights and Pride conferences in Copenhagen, Madrid, Athens, Sydney, Washington DC, San Diego, and Bangkok, amplifying voices from the Global South and advocating for meaningful inclusion on international platforms. From addressing thousands at Copenhagen WorldPride’s closing ceremony, following the Danish Prime Minister, to participating in strategic dialogues at Madrid Summit and Washington DC Pride, my voice has contributed to shaping global queer discourse.

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As a DEI consultant and workshop facilitator, I’ve worked with corporates, educational institutions, police departments, and nonprofits to design and deliver sessions on inclusive practices, LGBTQIA+ allyship, gender sensitization, and sexual health awareness. My approach combines storytelling, real-world data, and interactive frameworks to create brave spaces for unlearning and transformation.

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My advocacy includes launching Qutumb: The Rainbow Families, India’s first support group for families of queer individuals; helping victims of dating app scams by engaging with law enforcement for justice and systemic reform; and mentoring young queer activists across India.

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Featured in various national and international media, I continue to use my platform to connect, educate, and empower. Whether organizing on-ground Pride events or speaking at global forums, my mission remains the same: to build a world where LGBTQIA+ individuals not only survive but thrive — freely, safely, and proudly.

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Let’s Collaborate

If you’re seeking a passionate speaker, a globally recognized DEI consultant, or a partner to help design inclusive experiences and conversations — I’d love to work with you.

Book a session | Invite me to speak | Start a conversation