My name is Alfred Verhoeven, founder and chairman of 6PC. Please let me introduce myself and the Network.

Soon after getting my degree and going into "business", I found the availability of a good network to be of the utmost importance - giving a direct and useful link into the business world, academic and social circles, and more.

In 1996 I became a member of Genius, the Dutch network for gay professionals. When I was a board member (1997-2000), I was responsible for the networking activities, newsletter, website and corporate sponsorships. I learned that many benefits can be obtained from networking, if actively pursued. Paradoxically - pure consumption will not bring you anything.

With all this in mind, I decided to create a similar network, which is now 6PC. Although Genius is member of the European Gay Managers Association EGMA and maintains warm contact with our brothers in Germany (VK), Austria (AGPRO) and Switzerland (Network), my idea for 6PC was to create a more informal, global and therefore virtual network of "gay professionals".

Mind you: this is not an activity aimed at gay business as such, but it helps to streamline the operations, as the "gay thing" creates a certain bond, which is very strong!

Since the start in June 2001, the network has quickly taken off, and we presently have around 2,500 members in well over 100 countries.

The launch of the new website in 2009, which includes Special Interest Platforms, Country Sections, Forums and much more, should strengthen the interactivity and support networking functions. 

I hope you will recognize the strength of networking and join us! You are cordially invited.

All the best,