QueerNext Workshop: Selling It - What Drag Can Teach You About Showing Up at Work
Have you ever wondered how drag principles can be applied to a professional environment? The answer is much closer than you think.
Join us on October 27 for a small, hands-on workshop where you'll explore the theory behind the art form and its application in the professional world - especially when it comes down to showing up and presenting yourself the way you want to be perceived.
Whether you’re a Founder, a Manager, Employee, or simply walking into a room which isn't built for you - this is for you.
😇 What to expect
This interactive workshop combines short historical analysis, linking this to theoretical practice and its practical application. Then, it's over to you.
We will cover:
a brief history of drag as a performance technology built by the people who had to learn how to take up space.
the invisible labour behind the effortless public image
building your persona with the Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve & Talent framework
The session is designed to be accessible, practical, and immediately useful.
🧭 What you’ll leave with
a clear understanding of drag principles and their application to the professional context.
a repeatable approach of how to construct your effortless public image when walking into tough conversations
💻 What to bring
Nothing to bring to the session, other than yourself and your ideas! We'll provide the rest for you.
⏰️ Agenda
18:00 Doors open
18:20 Welcome & Intro round
18:30 Workshop begins
20:00 Informal networking
📍 Location
The Social Hub, Alexanderstraße 40, 10179 Berlin
👥 Who is this event for
This workshop is primarily for queer founders and operators working across the tech, startup & corporate ecosystems.
We also welcome allies and professionals from other sectors who are curious about applying AI in their own work.
🤝 Our commitment to a safe space
QueerNext is a space built on trust and respect. We have zero tolerance for harassment or discrimination of any kind. Find our full code of conduct here.
🎤 About the facilitator
The workshop is led by Mila Iličić, founder of Arc Labs. Mila is a Berlin-based communications strategist with a PhD from Columbia University and five years in venture capital. She currently runs Arc Labs, a pitch and storytelling consultancy for early-stage founders, with a focus on supporting queer and other underrepresented founders.
She has taught at Columbia University and developed a digital learning platform adopted across four major universities. She is based in Berlin and available for in-person or remote delivery.
🎫 Tickets
Your ticket includes participation in a high-quality, guided workshop, space for meaningful exchange.
To support our work, we ask for a contribution of 10€. If that’s not possible for you right now, please reach out to us - we do our best to ensure everyone can join.
We limit spots to 15 to keep the space intimate and meaningful. Secure your place early.
Please note: refreshments are unfortunately not included in the ticket price, but can be purchased at the onsite bar area.
🌈 About QueerNext
QueerNext is an LGBTQIA+ changemaker community creating spaces for connection, reflection, and growth. We bring together queers and allies from the tech and startup ecosystem who want to create positive change in the workplace and beyond.