Letting your authenticity inspire others

Inside one of the nation’s only PRIDE EMBA groups — and its impact on global leadership. Meet Carlos Ortega, who turned initial uncertainty into a movement.
Written by:
Kellogg
5 minute read

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Three smiling men standing closely in front of a purple wall
From left to right: Clinton Snider, Carlos Ortega and Jake Camp.

What happens when visibility meets vulnerability? It opens the door to deeper connections, fuels personal growth and creates space for authentic leadership. Transformation is at the heart of what we do, and Executive MBA (EMBA) students Carlos Ortega ’26, Jake Camp ’26 and Clinton Snider ’26 aren’t just earning degrees — they’re helping build a thriving community. 

As members of one of the nation’s only PRIDE EMBA groups, these EMBA students have created a space where authenticity sparks connection and global perspectives fuel inclusive leadership. In this three-part series, you’ll step inside their stories and discover how authenticity, connection and cultural awareness are transforming not only their careers — but the future of business. 

In this installment, hear from Carlos on how he turned initial uncertainty into a movement — with the creation of the first-ever Pride group for EMBA students — proving that authentic leadership can be a game-changer. 

Kellogg: Can you share the moment or experience that sparked your connection with one another? What drew you together initially?

When I was accepted into the Kellogg EMBA, I felt anxious at first, thinking I might be the only gay man in my cohort. It wasn't until the first or second in-person weekend that I realized I wasn’t alone. Meeting other LGBTQ+ classmates who felt the same way made me feel more at ease and that shared experience brought us together from the start. 

“Embracing vulnerability has made me a more authentic leader. It allows me to build trust and form deeper connections. Within our EMBA Pride group, we’ve focused on creating safe spaces where everyone can be themselves.”
Carlos Ortega ’26
Executive MBA

 

Kellogg: In what ways do you see yourselves paving the way for other LGBTQ+ professionals in executive leadership?

One key way is through visibility. At the executive level, it can be challenging to be open because you don’t always know how it will be received. By being visible and authentic, we not only support other LGBTQ+ professionals but also help educate our colleagues. It’s about fostering understanding and showing that diversity is a strength. In doing so, we pave the way for others to lead authentically.

Kellogg: Vulnerability is often seen as a strength in leadership, helping foster trust, deepen connection and inspire authenticity. How has embracing vulnerability shaped your leadership style and your EMBA journey?

Embracing vulnerability has made me a more authentic leader. It allows me to build trust and form deeper connections. Within our EMBA Pride group, we’ve focused on creating safe spaces where everyone can be themselves. When you feel safe, you can lead genuinely — and that inspires others to do the same. Vulnerability is a strength that helps us lead with authenticity.

Kellogg: Has there been a moment when your collaboration led to a breakthrough or unexpected outcome?

Initially, Jake Camp and I started discussing creating a Pride group in Miami because there wasn’t one for the Executive MBA Program. The school connected us with Clinton in Chicago, who had a similar idea. Together, we began organizing events, and what started as a local idea grew into a global network. We soon realized we were the first executive-level Pride group in an MBA program — a surprising and significant milestone. 

A small pin with the letter K against a colorful background
EMBA Pride pins that were given out to EMBA students during Global Network Week.

Kellogg: You all recently attended Global Network Week (GNW) and connected with your peers from around the world. What did GNW teach you about leadership across cultures? Were there any moments that challenged or expanded your worldview?

GNW taught me a lot about how leadership varies across cultures. Even though I have global experience, meeting executive peers from around the world made me more aware of these differences and how LGBTQ+ issues fit into different cultural contexts. It broadened my perspective and showed me that understanding these nuances can strengthen global leadership.

Kellogg: How did GNW deepen your bond or shift your understanding of global LGBTQ+ communities?

GNW reinforced that while we share common challenges, each culture brings its unique nuances. The experience deepened our bond as a global LGBTQ+ community and with our allies, showing us that by understanding these differences, we can be more united and empowered.

Kellogg: What advice would you give to other LGBTQ+ professionals who are striving to lead with authenticity?

My advice is to stay authentic while understanding that there will always be different perspectives. Be flexible, but don’t lose your authenticity. At the executive level, being yourself is crucial. By being authentic and visible, you become a role model for others who are watching and looking up to you. Lead authentically, stay true to yourself and remember that your visibility can inspire others to do the same.

 
Read next: Fueling lifelong leadership

 

All students are welcome to join any group, as Kellogg values all perspectives and ensures access to benefits and services without regard to legally protected categories.

The views and opinions expressed in this post are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of the Kellogg School of Management or Northwestern University.