Jannette Flores is an #IAmRemarkable facilitator, an Industry Manager at Google, and Pride at Google Co-lead. A galvanising force, she is passionate about creative inclusive workspaces.
Tell us a bit about yourself!
My parents came from the Philippines to Germany when they were very young, and it was a challenging transition for them. When my brother came out at 17 and I came out at 23, it was incredibly difficult for my parents. They didn't quite know how to handle it and ultimately decided to move to California. I found myself alone in Germany, which was a tough period. But I had a strong network of friends who became my chosen family.
Fast forward a few years, I had two beautiful children with my first wife. Two years ago, I married my current wife, and we welcomed a baby boy nine months ago. So, family is a huge part of my life."
How has your identity informed your professional life?
As a working mom in a same-sex marriage, I challenge traditional family and workplace structures. I make sure to amplify the voices of those from different backgrounds, and I understand that our differences are our strengths.
I can only work at such a high pace because my wife has my back, and I can bring my whole self to work.
What advice would you give for people who want to be better allies?
Less is more. Some people think they have to reinvent the wheel to be a good ally, but it’s the little things that count. If people are genuinely interested. Supporting us. Marching with us at Pride. Putting a Pride sticker on a laptop. Those are the little things that make a big difference to me. These actions help signal a safe and inclusive space. Being proactive and helping organize Pride events is fantastic too! It's all about showing genuine interest and taking action.
How does #IAmRemarkable help create self spaces for LGBTQIA+ people?
The self confidence I get through facilitating this workshop has been like therapy. I just gave my 58th session and there was not one session that was boring, or that didn’t give me something.
Being a part of an underrepresented group lowers your self esteem, because you always have the feeling that you are not right as you are.
#IAmRemarkable tells you: you are exactly right as you are. You are somebody, you can shine and you need to show the world.
It's our responsibility to speak up and create change, not to hide. If we don't share our stories and accomplishments, who will?
And finally, the all important question: what makes you remarkable?
I am remarkable because I am a working mom of three, married to a woman, who embodies the resilience and strength of an immigrant family. My parents bravely moved to Germany without knowing the language and built a life for themselves and their two children. Their journey inspires me to embrace challenges and celebrate my own unique story.
#IAmRemarkable tells you: you are exactly right as you are. You are somebody, you can shine and you need to show the world.
Jannette Flores
