CEO of Pride WA, Dr Laurie Butterly, will step down at the end of the month after three years at the organisation’s helm.
An integral part of Western Australia’s LGBTQIA+ community, Pride WA announced Butterly’s departure on Friday May 1.
“Pride WA today announces that Chief Executive Officer Dr Laurie Butterly will step down from her role at the end of May, after three years of significant growth and major organisational achievements,” they announced.
“During Laurie’s tenure, Pride WA has expanded its programs, deepened its engagement across the community, secured ongoing multi-year grant funding, and delivered the organisation’s largest Pridefest celebrations to date.”
“Under her leadership, Perth also secured the Gay Games 2030, a milestone that will bring global LGBTQIA+ sport and culture to Western Australia for the first time.
“While these achievements have shaped Pride WA’s recent trajectory, Laurie is best known for the relationships she has built across the community — relationships grounded in trust, visibility, and genuine care.
“Her leadership has been marked by a commitment to ensuring LGBTQIA+ people feel seen, valued, and connected.”
Source: InstagramLaurie to compete at the Gay Games in Spain
Reflecting on her time at Pride WA, Dr Laurie Butterly said, “It has been an extraordinary privilege to serve as CEO of Pride WA over the past three years.”
“While strengthening the organisation’s foundations and securing Gay Games 2030 have been defining achievements, the moments that will stay with me are the countless personal interactions with community members.”
“Often it was someone approaching me whilst I was wearing a Pride WA vollie shirt – not knowing I was the CEO — to share that it was their first Pride Parade and that they finally felt seen and visible.
“Those moments capture the true purpose of this work, and they are what I will carry forward with immense gratitude.”
Laurie will continue her association with Pride WA in a volunteer capacity following her return from a well-earned holiday.
As part of her holiday, Laurie will compete in open water swimming at the Gay Games in Valencia.
Source: FacebookCommunity roles vital in developing the next generation of leaders
“On behalf of the Board, I want to sincerely thank Laurie for her extraordinary leadership over the past three years,” said Pride WA Chair, Peter Foster.
“She has strengthened Pride WA, delivered major outcomes for our community, and helped secure a historic win with the Gay Games 2030.”
“We are grateful that Laurie will continue her involvement with Pride WA in a volunteer capacity following her departure.
“She has been offered a new professional opportunity that builds on the skills and experience she has demonstrated in this role, and we look forward to continuing to work with her in her new capacity.
“Laurie’s journey is a reminder of how vital LGBTQIA+ community roles are in developing the next generation of leaders who continue to give back to our community.”
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In light of Pridefest’s continued growth and the evolving relationship between Pride WA and the Gay Games, the Pride WA Board will take time to review the organisation’s current operating structure before commencing any recruitment.
This period provides an appropriate opportunity to consider the structure that will best support the organisation’s future needs.
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