Hi everyone,
I’m Leslie Pumm, and I’m proud to step into my role as CEO of the Pride Community Foundation – and just as proud to announce that Scene, Brighton & Hove’s iconic LGBTQ+ magazine, has officially joined our Foundation’s family.
Born and raised in Berlin to an American dad and German mum, I made Brighton my home in 2020. Since then, I’ve fallen in love with this city’s unapologetically queer spirit, its creativity, and its sense of community. And yes, I might just be the most British American in town.
Earlier this year I left my role in local government – a decision that wasn’t easy, far from it, but one that has allowed me to put my health first. I’m now looking forward to dedicating myself to the work I care deeply about: supporting, uplifting, and investing in our LGBTQ+ communities. I’m incredibly grateful to now be doing that every day through the Pride Community Foundation.
Now, as the CEO of Pride Community Foundation, I’m proud to lead an organisation that is dedicated to uplifting LGBTQ+ lives through grant-giving, uniting, advocating and now, through media and storytelling.
Later this year, we will pick up where the Brighton Rainbow Fund left off and announce a new funding programme, the Pride Community Fund, which will be heavily supported by contributions from Brighton & Hove Pride, for LGBTQ+ and HIV groups and charities in our city.
There are opportunities for you to get involved as we build an organisation that embraces transparency and community scrutiny. We’ve looked long and hard at the mistakes of the past and are determined that this new organisation and team will not repeat them.
We’re excited to welcome Scene into our portfolio. This magazine has long been a vital part of our LGBTQ+ heritage here in Brighton & Hove, and I’m committed to ensuring it not only survives but thrives in a new era.
That journey begins with a major relaunch on 1 June, just in time for Pride Month. Expect a brand-new website, a refreshed logo, and exciting new content, including audio-visual content and exclusive interviews for subscribers. We’re giving Scene a modern look and feel, while staying rooted in the values and voices that made it iconic.
But more importantly, Scene will grow into a platform that amplifies the voices often unheard – the grassroots organisers, the everyday heroes, the artists and activists who shape our culture. We’ll remain local with a national and international outlook, celebrating this wonderful city in all its never normalness – and yes, there may just be a print comeback on the horizon too.
Scene welcomes columns, stories and guest features. Please get in touch if you would like to share your thoughts on Scene or advertise your event.
This is a new chapter, and I’m so grateful to be writing it with you. Here’s to a future where every part of our community is seen, heard, and celebrated.
With pride,
Leslie Pumm
CEO, Pride Community Foundation
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