Colin | people & community

Colin

With over 10 years of experience in Human Resources, Community and Operations, I’ve worked across both large corporations and fast-growing startups. As a certified Sustainability Practitioner and DEI Practitioner, my focus has shifted towards understanding how businesses can drive sustainability and social impact, fostering positive change on a global scale while maintaining the close knit community feel.

As a co-founder of ProudZone, I am taking on the main role of Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) and filling in the Chief Operations Officer (COO) roles as we work to build a virtual platform that enables LGBTQ+ individuals around the world to network, share resources, and help their community escape persecution.

Inspired by my passion for inclusion and sustainability, ProudZone is my commitment to creating a space where business can be a powerful force for good. My core values and promise to the queer community align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). ProudZone WILL be a defining moment for the community and step by step we will a world where we are all valued for who we are and what we can accomplish.

To learn more about me, connect with me on LinkedIn or let’s meet for a virtual coffee

Paulino | growth & communication

Paulino

I’m a business strategist with a background in public relations, marketing, and nonprofit leadership, dedicated to creating meaningful connections and driving impact. As Co-Founder and Chief Growth Officer of ProudZone, I focus on expanding our reach and ensuring LGBTQ+ individuals—especially those without safe access to community—have a space where they can connect, thrive, and be seen.

Throughout my career, I’ve led initiatives that amplify underrepresented voices, strengthen audience engagement, and create lasting change. I’ve worked with global organizations, developed data-driven communication strategies, and advised on campaigns that bring people together in powerful ways. My expertise lies in audience insights, brand psychology, and strategic storytelling—helping organizations and communities grow with purpose.

As an LGBTQ+ individual, this work is deeply personal. I know firsthand how important it is to feel a sense of belonging, and I’m committed to ensuring others never have to search for it alone. At ProudZone, I’m working alongside an incredible team to build something truly groundbreaking—a space designed to give LGBTQ+ individuals, allies, and organizations the visibility, support, and opportunities they deserve.

Let’s connect on LinkedIn or schedule a meeting here to learn more.

Ingo | general management

Ingo Recher

With my business administration background, I have worked in the startup world for over 15 years as an employee and a founder in various industries. I founded my first project in 2015.

As members of the LGBTQ+ community, my co-founders and I are dedicated to creating something highly beneficial for the community with ProudZone.

The initial idea for ProudZone came to me during the lockdowns of the COVID-19 pandemic. Back then, I realized how lucky I was to have the freedom and opportunity to enjoy all the benefits of our incredible community till this point. You often realize how awesome things are if you lose them. Luckily for me, the cut-off from the community was only temporary, but I realized it is a cruel reality for millions of people, even without a pandemic. But it took me some time until I actually began to put my idea into reality.

As CEO of ProudZone, I am mainly responsible for the overall strategy and represent ProudZone. But to be honest, like at every other startup, founders must do everything that the other team members cannot cover.  And that is what I love about being a founder: creating something great with value and facing new challenges daily.

To learn more about me, visit my LinkedIn profile or let us meet for a virtual coffee.