My name is Ashley, and I am a university student from the United States. As a student studying psychology and political science, landing a summer internship in London felt like a dream come true. Joining Micro Rainbow, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect, but my nervousness quickly melted away. From the very first day, I was instantly embraced by one of the most genuinely supportive organisations, filled with the kindest and funniest people I’ve ever met. When Micro Rainbow invited me to march with them at London Pride 2025, I was beyond thrilled.
Walking in London Pride
Pride 2025 was my first time officially taking part, and it’s a memory I’ll forever treasure from my time with Micro Rainbow. The day itself was absolutely unforgettable. Sure, the parade winding through the streets of London and buzzing with endless cheering was incredible, but the real magic unfolded right there on the pavement. Watching the Micro Rainbow team connect with our community was incredibly moving. Seeing them carefully put colorful butterfly stickers, our logo, on beneficiaries or paint rainbows on their cheeks, the pure joy on their faces was incredibly heartwarming. Even those just waiting for their turn couldn’t stop smiling. The best part was watching everyone just be together. From the team and the community dancing in a circle to “5, 6, 7, 8”, to the crowd cheering them on during “Dancing On My Own”, you could see the confidence blooming in everyone.
Spotting the Micro Rainbow team cheering in the crowds, our community would rush over to them for an excited hug. Groups would gather for pictures, tightly link arms while marching, wave their flags and dance freely, all while smiling ear to ear with genuine excitement and pride. You could see the endless, heartfelt support that this community provides. All throughout the day, there was constant music punctuated by trills of whistles that were handed out by the team. That sense of belonging stretched far beyond our marching group. Looking around, there were countless companies and organisations, all kinds of different people laughing and celebrating together.
Community building through Micro Rainbow
I’ll never forget watching how the shy members of our community slowly relaxed, started dancing, and eventually, blew kisses to the crowd. In that moment, you understand the importance of having a community, to be truly seen and accepted by your group of people. Extending beyond Pride, Micro Rainbow aims to consistently provide love and support through our Social Inclusion programme. Being with a circle of people who understand you, the members of our Micro Rainbow community are able to feel more comfortable in their identity as an out LGBTQI person. Whether it’s through Pride or social events, Micro Rainbow helps individuals to find that sense of belonging, a support system, that allows them to shine.
Many people described the day as simply “perfect”. Walking amongst the sea of people, from the cheering crowds, the dedicated Micro Rainbow team, to our beaming community, everyone felt so much love and support. A community member remarked, “You have a way of making people feel seen and valued–it’s a rare gift.” It was the most beautiful reminder of what pride is truly about: finding your people, feeling safe and celebrated for exactly who you are, and sharing that sense of belonging with the entire community. A member of our community perfectly summed up Pride: “It was a long walk, but every step meant something deeper for different people, and that in itself is life.”
