In recognition of Pride Awareness Month, Pride Awareness Month, Jaco Schutte, ERP Team Manager at BWT Alpine Formula One Team, shares his personal journey and lived experiences. Read his inspiring story below.

From a young age, Jaco knew he was different but couldn’t quite explain why. “I never felt like I fit the norm, even though I didn’t show any typical signs of being different. I loved racing cars, my LEGO PC, and Optimus Prime,” he shares. It wasn’t until later that he realised he wasn’t attracted to girls.

Although he grew up in a caring and loving home, his family’s strong religious beliefs conflicted with his identity. “For me, this was a challenge. As a teen, I was too scared to come out. I knew the kind of judgment I’d face, so I stayed in the closet,” he says.

High school brought its own challenges, including rumours due to the fact he never had a girlfriend. But instead of letting it get him down, it motivated him. “I wanted to succeed - not just for myself, but to create a new path. University was my chance. I could pursue my love of computers and finally be a whole new person, my true self.”

University became the turning point for Jaco. “University was the first time I had the courage to come out, but it wasn’t a quick process. Fortunately, I had a very supportive group of friends, and they weren’t surprised at all. The relief I felt, it was such an experience.”

In time, he began opening up to those close to him, and eventually, he told his parents. “I knew they wouldn’t take it well, but I couldn’t keep pretending. Since, our relationship has never recovered.”

Later, Jaco met his now husband online. “We’d been chatting for a while and finally met for coffee. I was 30 minutes late — but he waited. That’s when I knew he was the one.” He adds. “I don’t give him enough credit, but he’s been my rock especially since coming out to my parents, and not to mention the driving force for us moving to the UK.”

To conclude, he notes “To all of you reading, yes, it does get better! I can tell you I’ve had a less-than-ideal start, and my fair share of painful experiences, but I’m still standing here today. I’m now married to a man that I love, and I’m enjoying my career working in Formula 1, fancy that.”