ThoughtWorks’ First Ever ‘Interning with Pride’ Program Concludes with Job Offers to all Interns

ThoughtWorks, a global software consultancy celebrated the completion of ‘Interning with Pride,’ a unique internship program designed exclusively for candidates from the LGBTQI+ community. The unique 5-month program was organized at the company’s Hyderabad office with an aim to provide graduates with a safe space to pursue their technical ambitions.

The program received 57 entrees out of which a total of 4 were shortlisted. The program helped interns sharpen their programming skills through hands-on sessions on object-oriented programming practices and principles. It also provided them with exposure to both, agile practices and the latest industry trends. After successful completion of the internship, ThoughtWorks extended job offers to all 4 interns.

Speaking on completion of the successful pilot internship program, Tina Vinod, Diversity and Inclusion Head at ThoughtWorks India said, “We always have and will continue to stand in solidarity with India’s LGBTQI+ community. We truly hope the success of our ‘Interning with Pride’ program encourages many more organizations to run similar initiatives that will embrace and promote diversity in all its forms.”

During the course of the paid internship, candidates were provided with accommodations, laptops and travel support.

Karthik D and Jayanthi, who were amongst the 4 interns extended job offers, they said, “‘Interning With Pride’ helped hone our technical and communication skills amidst open conversations. The intensive training program was set in an environment that encouraged discussion of the LGBTQI+ history, culture, and issues. This experience affirmed our belief in the power of LGBTQI+ allies. We are extremely excited to work at ThoughtWorks and are proud to have been part of the pilot ‘Interning with Pride’ program.”

ThoughtWorkers, Archana Chillala and Srujan Kumar Bojjam who anchored the ‘Interning with Pride’ program added to this positive sentiment by saying, “This internship program has helped us engineer a more aware and inclusive workplace than we had before. At every step of the project, our intention was to ensure the safety and comfort of all the interns which in turn empowered them to bring their authentic selves to work, and do their best work as they felt both, comfortable and confident. Today, we are extremely proud to have such passionate and inquisitive technologists join us as full-time employees.”

‘Interning with Pride’ aligns with ThoughtWorks’ core belief that diversity of thoughts, perspectives, ideas, and solutions enhance innovation. The program is part of ThoughtWorks’ efforts to make the company and the technology industry more inclusive and reflective of the society that we live in. For updates on future editions of the internship program, watch this space.