The power of role models – inspiring diversity in insurance

“You can’t be what you can’t see” is a quote by Marian Wright Edelman that resonates with many of us. It speaks to the profound influence of the examples we see around us and how they shape our aspirations.

The importance of diverse role models

As iCAN (The Insurance Cultural Awareness Network) actively engages with professionals across our sector, we witness first-hand the unique hurdles faced by ethnically diverse individuals in advancing their careers, including a lack of connections, navigating a complex industry, and a scarcity of relatable figures to look up to.

In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on promoting greater ethnic diversity within the insurance industry. Efforts have been made to encourage more individuals from diverse backgrounds to pursue senior roles but many professionals from ethnically diverse backgrounds still feel held back, often because of a feeling of imposter syndrome.

It is essential to recognise the significance of representation and ensure that the possibility of achieving senior roles is visibly demonstrated to those who are planning their careers in our sector.

What makes a role model?

Traditionally, we might envision role models as high-profile, C-suite captains of industry, however, it is better to broaden our definition and consider the traits exhibited by individuals in various roles.

Role models come in all shapes and sizes, at all levels of career and with all types of experience, but they possess some common traits. They inspire us through their words, actions, or creative thinking. They may also share invaluable guidance, offering insights into best practices, industry trends, and emerging technologies. They frequently hold themselves to high standards, whether in terms of their achievements or their behaviours.

Finding a role model

If you don’t already have a role model, you might want to find one. Here are some ways to think about it:

• It’s OK for the trait, rather than the individual, to be the thing that you admire. Consider what behaviours and qualities you find impressive, or conversely, those you might want to avoid.
• Consider the impact and influence a role model has had on others. Look for individuals who have made a positive difference in their communities or society at large.
• If you’re facing a challenge, how does your role model deal with it? Sometimes when we’re feeling unsure we can imagine ourselves in someone else’s shoes and channel their best qualities. As the pop-culture catchphrase goes… ‘what would Beyoncé do?’
• Don’t limit your influences to those who have achieved high status in their fields. Role models can be found in our colleagues, professional networks, friends, family members, historical figures, or even fictional characters.

It is important to note that role models – for yourself and for others – are key to helping you evolve into the diverse leader that you want to become. They will provide lessons you can use, advice you can pass on and ultimately allow you to take the best of others to develop yourself.

iCAN’s 2023 role models

At iCAN, amplifying and promoting the diverse talent in our industry has always been a priority, not only to celebrate their successes but also to serve as inspiration to others. This month, to commemorate our sixth birthday we published our second edition of iCAN’s book of role models, selecting 60 outstanding insurance professionals who are contributing significantly to challenging norms and pushing boundaries within our industry. They come from underwriting, broking, claims, insurtech, DE&I, talent, HR and are all making a difference to our industry.

One of our 2023 role models, Waseem Malik, chief claims officer of UK & Ireland general insurance at Aviva reflected: “We are making small steps but still have a long way to go to catch up with other sectors – however, I am pleased to see the momentum we now have and the role models who are passionately driving this.”

We encourage you to read their stories and be inspired!