“Pride and LGBTQ+ inclusion is all about accepting yourself, in your own truth”

Alvaro Dominguez-Adame Palomo

Tell us a bit about yourself, your career, role in the business and how long you have been a partner?

I grew up in Spain, and my obsession for Starbucks began when I was a teenager. I loved going to Starbucks with my friends, getting my Frappuccino fix, spending my weekly allowance on muffins… Looking back, I was a very loyal customer! After I finished my architecture degree, I needed a job, and I knew I wanted to be part of the brand no matter what. I spent three years as a barista, moved to London, and eventually had the chance to join the design team as an Intern. Right now, I am part of the EMEA concepts team, working on very diverse projects – tools and initiatives that support the wider design team.

What does Pride Heritage Month mean to you, and why is it important to celebrate the landmark?

For me, Pride is about resilience. I'm only in my late 20s, but when I celebrate Pride, I tap into a legacy of resistance—from the Stonewall Riots to the present struggles of the transgender community. We can now look back and see how society has historically tried to suppress our community and break our spirit by driving us into the shadows, but we still live and love as we are to the fullest and support each other. Pride is more important than ever these days, as our society now has the chance to learn from our mistakes and support the battles of the LGBTQ+ community around the world.

What does LGBTQ+ inclusion mean to you?

LGBTQ+ inclusion means living your own truth and more importantly, accepting others’ truth as well. Regardless of any label that you choose to define yourself, Pride and LGBTQ+ inclusion is all about accepting yourself, in your own truth. It is an ever-evolving journey and process, one that involves growing as you learn more about yourself and those around you.