Working in nightlife is kind of ingrained in me, because my dad always worked in hospitality, so I would spend my summers following him around pubs and playing in beer gardens.
It's the kind of environment I've always felt comfortable in. Especially if you're queer, or trans, I think it's natural to spend a lot of time going out, seeing friends and just immersing yourself in that diversity you really find in nightlife, especially in big cities.
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It's funny, I find that being a minority makes it easier to understand other people's experiences. As a trans guy, for example, I find that I have a better understanding of the way that women are treated, especially when they're out and about in a bar situation.
My workplace is very liberal anyway - I can't think of anyone I work with that wouldn't agree that feminism is a great idea - but I definitely think I make an effort to be more respectful when I speak to women.
I think that stems from the fact that I know what it feels like to be alienated, or treated like the 'other' in a public setting. That makes you understand how upsetting it can be for people, so you don't want anyone else to have that experience when they're in your bar.
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That's what's important to me: that people feel comfortable and have a nice time. It's a really brilliant feeling to know that my work plays a part in making that happen.
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