A journey towards inclusion: Reflections on the Disability Smart initiative
Inclusion
Trinetri Tyagi’s story begins in a small village in Haryana. With determination, she pursued a degree in Business Administration and found her professional beginning at NatWest Group through the Pride Pathways programme – an initiative supporting the LGBT+ talent. “This opportunity not only gave me financial independence but also a space where I feel truly seen, valued and supported.”
Today, Trinetri works in the Commercial & Institutional division, ensuring operational excellence and customer service. But for her, it’s the people who make the work truly meaningful. “Since day one, my experience has been incredibly positive. My team is supportive, my manager truly values my voice, and I feel proud to bring my authentic self to work every day.”
The inner journey
Long before stepping into the corporate world, Trinetri was navigating something deeper – self-discovery. “Growing up, I always had a sense that I was different, but I couldn’t always put it into words.” Her journey wasn’t marked by a single moment of clarity, but by a slow and emotional process of unlearning, acceptance, and courage.
“I had to unlearn years of internalized stigma and build the courage to be honest with myself first, and then with others.” Finding community and connecting with shared experiences helped her realise she wasn’t alone.
Facing the world
Alongside personal clarity came social and emotional challenges. “Coming to terms with my identity as a transwoman and deciding to transition wasn’t easy. It meant facing years of internal conflict and fear of rejection.” Navigating public spaces, daily conversations, and relationships came with added layers of effort and vulnerability.
“Even simple activities like introducing myself or correcting someone felt heavy because of the constant need to justify my identity.”
An environment that supports
Professionally, Trinetri feels that the NatWest Group didn’t just welcome her, it empowered her. “Being hired through the Pride Pathways programme gave me a sense of belonging from day one.”
She highlights how NatWest’s inclusive policies, especially the Sex Reassignment Surgery benefit, offered not just practical help but emotional assurance. “They’ve been a lifeline as they show a genuine commitment to inclusion that goes beyond words.”
Having faced moments of anxiety, especially early on Trinetri admits that “I did worry about how colleagues might perceive me or whether I’d be accepted”. But in time, the support she received helped her overcome those fears.
“My journey has not been without pain,” she adds. “But every challenge I faced has shaped me into who I am today – a proud, resilient transwoman who stands in her truth. And having a workplace that allows me to be my authentic self makes all the difference.”
What pride means
To Trinetri, Pride is more than a celebration – it’s about visibility and strength in authenticity. “It’s about reclaiming the narrative that was once shaped by shame and turning it into one of strength, beauty, and resilience.”
At work, Pride shows up in real policies and programmes that change lives. “Things here have allowed me to thrive, grow, and contribute meaningfully, knowing that my identity is seen and respected.”
And what she’s most proud of? Choosing truth over fear. “Transitioning is not just about changing physically – it’s about standing tall in a world that often misunderstands people like me.”
A voice for others
To anyone walking a similar path, Trinetri has a message:
“You are not alone, and your identity is valid – no matter where you are in your journey. There is strength in vulnerability, and there is a future where you’ll feel at home in your own skin.”
And to allies, she says, “Allyship is more than acceptance – it’s action. Listen without judgment. Use your voice. See people for who they are. Sometimes, just one act of kindness, one moment of genuine respect, can change someone’s life. Be that moment for someone.”
