The Insurance Apprentice TIA Talks podcast series features former TIA contestants and industry experts. These episodes delve into critical industry issues and offer valuable insights.
In the second episode of The Insurance Apprentice podcast, Jason Mizen (JVC Insurance Brokers), Alicia Narainsamy (Season 2) and Ferguson Langenhoven (Season 9) discuss the transformative impact of The Insurance Apprentice, highlighting its role in inspiring young professionals to explore diverse career opportunities within the insurance industry and emphasising the importance of company support for personal and professional growth.
In this article, Ferguson underscores the importance of diversity and intentional career growth within the insurance industry. His reflections on his own experiences and the lessons learned about diversity in various contexts align with the podcast’s focus on inspiring young professionals to stretch their potential and embrace collaborative growth in the industry.
The value of diversity
In my ten-plus years in the insurance industry, I have learned a great deal. Beyond the knowledge gained about insurance, I have also appreciated insights into pertinent topics such as corporate culture, soft skills development, and diversity. There’s an African proverb that reads, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Truer words cannot be spoken when considering South Africa’s context.
In the podcast discussion, I was reminded of the reasons behind my passion for diversity, not only in the corporate realm but also in my personal life. My earliest memory of enjoying the benefits of diversity was in the latter years of primary school, where I fondly remember working with fellow students from various backgrounds on a group project. We did a great job, and our group mark for that project was a testament to our collaboration.
My passion for diversity and inclusion grew even more during my university days, as I was exposed to people with life experiences very different from my own. This takes into consideration the vast definition of diversity, which transcends gender and racial backgrounds. Diversity also encompasses individuals of different ages, physical abilities, social backgrounds, and more. I have carried this passion into the corporate world, where I continue to advocate for diversity and inclusion.
Benefits of diversity
With all that said, let us explore some of the benefits:
- Better productivity: this is fostered by an environment that clearly values everyone in the team, regardless of their differences.
- Enhanced creativity and innovation: diverse teams bring more perspectives and experiences, significantly contributing to creative and innovative solutions.
- Broader range of services and products: this positively influences organizational growth, as the knowledge base and expertise of a diverse group of colleagues can formulate more ideas, contributing to adaptability, growth, and sustainability.
Real-life examples
There are organisations in South Africa that have integrated the importance of diversity and inclusion into their core values, and they are now reaping the rewards of that decision. Companies such as Woolworths Holdings, Nedbank Group, and Liberty exemplify this commitment. Another fantastic example of successful diversity in action is our National Rugby Team. The “Bokke” consist of men from different walks of life, united by a common goal: to be the best. This understanding, hard work, and determination have led them to become four-time World Cup champions.
Many other South African organizations can benefit from being more intentional in ensuring that diversity permeates throughout their structures. It requires brave conversations where advocates for diversity engage with decision-makers who can implement these changes. This approach can aid in developing a strategic diversity and inclusion plan that can begin working now and continue into the future.
Final words – diversity simply explained
A widely used analogy illustrates the basics of diversity: “Diversity is being invited to the dance. Inclusion is being asked to dance. Equity is the space on the floor you get. Belonging is participating in choosing the music and dancing like no one is watching.”
Lastly, I would like to end with a quote: “We can change the world and make it a better place. It is in your hands to make a difference.” – Nelson Mandela.
References:
https://issuu.com/topcomedia/docs/top_empowerment_21st_edition_for_2021/s/14512817