International Student Ambassador Xinyu attended Pride for the first time last year. She shared with us all the things she was looking forward to before the big event
Seeing an LGBTQ+ Pride parade up close for the first time feels like stepping into a living history book, one filled with glitter, rainbows, and the echoes of decades of activism. As I prepare to join the celebration, I keep reflecting on the milestones that made this moment possible. Did you know the first Pride parade in the UK in 1972 had only 2,000 participants? Now, it’s amazing to see so many people coming together for Pride.
As I get ready for the parade, I feel a mix of excitement, gratitude, and curiosity. Learning about the long history of LGBTQ+ rights in the UK has made me realise that Pride is so much more than a party, it’s a tribute to the courage, resilience, and progress of countless individuals. Here are the four things I’m most looking forward to:
1. Feeling the Power of Community
From the first London Pride march to the global celebrations we see today, Pride has always been about unity and visibility. I’m thrilled to see people from all walks of life coming together to celebrate their identities and support each other. From the Stonewall riots in 1969 to the repeal of Section 28 in 2003, every rainbow flag carries the weight of hard-won battles. Participating in the parade is a way to honor the pioneers who fought for equity.
2. Celebrating Diversity and Joy
Pride is a fearless, vibrant festival of individuality, radiating energy and joy in every direction. I’m especially excited about the music, there’s something magical about hearing a whole crowd sing along to anthems like Lady Gaga’s ‘Born This Way’, everyone’s voices blending into a chorus of acceptance and self-love. The fashion will be another highlight: rainbow capes waving in the crowd, creative and unique outfits, sparkling makeup, bold accessories, playful costumes - turning the streets into a living runway
But what I’m truly looking forward to is the atmosphere: an infectious joy that sweeps through the crowd, a feeling of belonging and freedom that’s hard to describe.
"It’s the kind of happiness that makes you want to laugh, dance, and simply be yourself without holding back. Feeling both the weight of history and the lightness of hope, is also a special kind of joy." - Xinyu
What excites me most is how these big and small moments weave together into a tapestry of connection and celebration. Pride is about so much more than the parade; it’s about the shared smiles with strangers, collective laughter, and the sense of joy that fills every corner. It’s about being seen and accepted, and celebrating that same spirit in everyone around you. I know these experiences - singing, dancing, laughing, and simply living in the moment - will become memories I cherish long after the day is over. Pride reminds me that joy can be revolutionary, and I can’t wait to be part of it.
3. Learning and Listening
Pride is not only a celebration but also an incredible opportunity for reflection and learning. I’m eager to use this experience to deepen my understanding of the diverse histories and ongoing struggles within the LGBTQ+ community. For example, learning more about milestone events that have shaped the community’s resilience and activism is essential. The courage shown by those who fought for awareness, research, and compassion during challenging times, continues to inspire today’s movements for equity.
I also want to better understand the unique challenges faced by transgender and non-binary people. By listening to their stories, attending talks or workshops, and engaging with advocacy groups at the parade, I hope to become more aware of the issues that matter most to them.
"For me, it’s important not only to celebrate diversity, but also to recognise the specific needs and experiences within the community—especially those voices that are too often marginalised." - Xinyu
Through conversations, educational materials, and simply observing the different groups, I hope to leave the parade not only feeling inspired, but also more knowledgeable and empathetic. I hope this deeper understanding will help me become a better ally, support others more effectively, and contribute in meaningful ways to the ongoing fight for equity and inclusion.
4. Making Memories and Building Connections
One of the things I’m most looking forward to is the chance to create lasting memories and build genuine connections with others. Pride can be a time when lifelong friendships and even chosen families are formed. I’m excited to meet people from all walks of life, whether it’s fellow first-timers who share my sense of anticipation, seasoned parade-goers eager to share their stories, or allies and supporters who make the event even more special.
I plan to capture the day through photos and notes, not just for myself, but to share the experience with friends and family who might not be able to attend. I hope to join in the music and dancing, to laugh and celebrate, and to be part of spontaneous moments that make Pride so memorable.
Beyond the fun, I see this as an opportunity to build a sense of community that lasts far beyond the parade itself. Whether it’s exchanging contact information, joining group chats, or making plans to meet up at future events, I want to stay connected with the people I meet and support each other on our journeys. Pride is about visibility and acceptance, but also about forging bonds that can help us all feel stronger, more supported, and more hopeful for the future.