Today, the canals and streets of Utrecht will turn all colours of the rainbow for Utrecht Pride 2026. For Ziggo, this year's edition is extra special: for the first time, we are the event’s main sponsor. With a VIP Deck, inspiring stories and a strong focus on the people who stand by your side, we are celebrating what Pride is all about: being able to be yourself, together with the people who support you.
The power of connection
The theme of Utrecht Pride 2026 is United by U: getting together, embracing differences and giving each other the space to be yourself. The people around us — family, friends, colleagues and partners — play an important role in this. For many people in the queer community, support from friends and family is unfortunately not a given, even though that acceptance can make a world of difference.
At Ziggo, we connect people with what truly matters. Not only through technology, but also through the relationships that bring colour to our lives. That is why, during Pride, we want to highlight the importance of connection and support.
Pride: together with your biggest supporters
To bring this idea to life, we developed a social campaign together with creative agency DEPT, in which people from the queer community and their biggest supporters celebrate Utrecht Pride together. These can be parents, grandparents, friends, partners or other loved ones — people who stand by your side, walk with you and show you: you belong.
At the heart of this campaign is a special giveaway with Harléya La Reine, where participants had the chance to win a spot on the Ziggo VIP Deck during Utrecht Pride 2026. Because Pride is not something you celebrate alone. Pride is something you celebrate together.
On the day itself, we will capture stories from visitors, winners and their biggest supporters. Why is support so important? And what does Pride mean to them? After the event, we will share these inspiring stories.
Inclusion matters 365 days a year
Pride is an important opportunity to celebrate the visibility of the LGBTIQA+ community and raise awareness of equity and acceptance. At the same time, we believe inclusion should not be limited to one day, week or month a year.
An inclusive organisation is built through everyday choices. By creating a culture where people feel safe to be themselves. By actively making space for different perspectives. And by continuing to talk to each other about what connects us.
“At VodafoneZiggo, we want everyone to feel they have the freedom to be themselves, embracing everything that makes them unique. For us, inclusion is not just a slogan on a poster. It is something we invest in all year round. Through inspiring sessions, workshops and activities, we bring colleagues together, broaden perspectives and encourage meaningful conversations. In doing so, we are building an organisation where everyone feels welcome, can be their true selves, and where our differences make us stronger and enrich who we are.”
— Bjorn Hamburg, Project Manager DE&I at VodafoneZiggo
Queers Connected: inclusion in action
A great example of inclusion in practice is our internal network, Queers Connected. Throughout the year, colleagues organise activities through Queers Connected, including a walking tour of Queer Utrecht, a 'Stories that slay’ storytelling workshop, and other opportunities to connect, learn and share experiences. This is how we work together to foster greater visibility, understanding and connection. All year round.
“I was looking for an employer where I could really be myself. VodafoneZiggo’s commitment to inclusion was the reason I applied for the role here. In reality, it turned out to be even better than I had hoped. During my training, I felt accepted and valued for who I am from the very beginning. That was such a positive surprise that my plan for a temporary job turned into a long-term career ambition. Today, I proudly and passionately contribute to greater equality within VodafoneZiggo through Queers Connected. After all, you are the best version of yourself when you can truly be yourself.”
— Wout Neinders, Chair of Queers Connected & Senior Commercial Coach B2B at VodafoneZiggo