The Wedding Edition team sits down with Dr. Gus Bussmann-Stuart, a passionate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) practitioner with a unique background in law, philosophy, and international human rights. Currently shaping the fashion industry, Dr. Gus discusses the transformative power of DEI initiatives, sharing insights on creating inclusive spaces that celebrate diverse identities. Reflecting on personal achievements, from transitioning from a corporate lawyer to a self-expressive role in fashion to being featured on a global stage at Vogue Business, Dr. Gus emphasises the importance of living authentically. The interview also delves into LGBTQ+ wedding trends and the joy of infusing personal touches into celebrations. Dr. Gus shares inspirations, favourite places, and plans for continued self-discovery, offering a glimpse into a life dedicated to fostering positive change.
My passion for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the workplace started when…
My passion for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the workplace started as an evolution of my passions and clarity on who I was / what I wanted to be. Having started my career as a Lawyer in the corporate space, I continued my development as I pursued my PhD in Philosophy and International Human Rights.
My work today consists in working with policies and frameworks that enable people to bring their whole selves to work. I am lucky to be able to create programmes and activations that touch different parts of people’s lives and experiences in the fashion industry, and allowing them to live a more fulfilling life.
I love making a difference by implementing the IDEA (diversity, inclusion, equity & action) programs for fashion because….
I love making a difference by fostering inclusion in the fashion industry because fashion is one of the strongest expressions of who we are. People have always used fashion to tell a story to the word, but some identities and experiences have historically had their light dimmed. What encourages me to do the best possible work, is the creation of spaces where self-expression exists alongside the celebration of different aspects of people’s identities.
My biggest achievement to date is…
My biggest achievement to date is to have found fulfilment in the work I do. It is a privilege to work with things that you are passionate about and finding the balance between my theoretical studies and action-oriented approach in the fashion industry I get up to work every day with a smile in my face. I love that I was able to transition from my everyday suit and tie to an environment where I can show up as my true, authentic self – which also feels like an achievement. On a more tangible way, being on global stage at Vogue Business last year, talking about my passion for being a changemaker is high up on the list. And speaking to The Wedding Edition, I am also quite proud of the wedding celebration I had in my home-country with Cristo which you can see here
I am constantly inspired by ….
I am constantly inspired by people who take DEI as a core aspect of what they do. In every profession, each role has an opportunity to infuse inclusive practices in everything they do and these are the people who are the real changemakers. We work building the future and those who can live their true authentic selves and influence people to do the same will always have my admiration.
The current LGBTQ+ wedding trends i’m loving are…
The current LGBTQ+ wedding trends i’m loving are the weddings that take traditional aspects of the ceremony and celebration and make it personal. If, on one side, weddings are rooted in tradition and familiarity, the beautiful thing about LGBTQ+ celebrations is that we can break up with traditions “for the sake of it” and make every detail personal and thought through. That goes on flowers and décor, groom’s outfits, rings and everything else. Having a celebration where everything ‘makes sense’ with the couple’s energy and personality is the most beautiful thing, and it’s infectious. You’ll see that all your guests will see that and share the positive feelings in celebrating you and your love.
My favourite place in the world to skip the crowds is…
My favourite place in the world to skip the crowds is probably my home. I love being out and being social, and with my job I am lucky enough to travel the world and connect with people. Last year I took 40+ flights and delivered work across all continents. When it’s time to slow down, there’s nothing better than being home and enjoy the space I so carefully curated to be my safe haven in the madness that central London is.
The best person to follow on Instagram for inclusive big-day inspo is…
The best person to follow on Instagram for inclusive big-day inspo is probably the unexpected accounts that inspire my creative side. In a more practical way, I love Emily Reifel who leads events at the iconic Plaza Hotel in NYC and the UK based Matthew Oliver events.
And finally, what’s next….
And finally, what’s next for me is the continuation of my journey of self-discovery and exploring new ways to live life to my full potential. Through fashion, making an impact and experiencing all that life has to offer, the next chapter always excite me.
Inside: Gus & Cristo’s Fun and Lavish Wedding in Brazil Wedding