Skip to content

TIA | The Insurance Apprentice

Meet the Contestant

Shivani Keshav

Internal Audit and Claims Technician

Risk and Insurance Services

Did you choose a career in insurance or did you fall into the industry like so many others? Briefly share your story.

I fell into the insurance industry twice, first when I got a job in the industry, and secondly when I fell in love with the people of the industry and everything the industry had to offer. I started my insurance journey in underwriting, into claims and am currently in internal audit. I have also served on the IIKZN council since 2018 and I am currently the deputy president of IIKZN. The industry has a lot to offer, and I am very interested in offering back to the industry.

Why did you choose to enter The Insurance Apprentice?

My colleagues on IIKZN council had entered previously and encouraged me to enter as soon as I was eligible, I am always up for a challenge and to try something new, and I am glad I had taken their advice.

In your mind, what qualities should an ambassador of The Insurance Apprentice have?

An ambassador of The Insurance Apprentice needs to be confident, encouraging and knowledgeable. An ambassador is one who carries the good name of insurance and the Insurance Apprentice itself. Furthermore, one must have great social skills and be a natural leader to grow this amazing competition.

Who has been the biggest influencer in your career and why?

The two directors of Kairos (Ashwin and Selvan) and my close friend Sherryl Harding – these three individuals who have encouraged, supported and pushed me into greater heights in my career.

In a tweet of 140 characters explain why insurance ROCKS!!!

Insurance is omnipresent, insurance is legal, it is financial, statistical, it is engineering, agricultural, commercial, you name it! Insurance is central across all industries; it is peace of mind. It is not a grudge purchase; it is a smart purchase. Insurance ROCKS!

What would be your dream Apprentice task and why?

My dream Apprentice task would be, being given a highly complex commercial claim that has been rejected (wrongfully) by insurers and the task being, resolving by aid of the policy wording and schedule.

What song would you choose for your Insurance Apprentice victory dance?

Dance the Night – Dua Lipa

A message to all the TIA sponsors?

A tremendous gratitude to all the TIA sponsors for bringing this show to life and for supporting the industry and the youth of the industry.

How important is winning for you?

Winning is definitely one of my five goals in this competition. It shares importance with growth, exposure, learning and networking, in no particular order.

Advice to yourself about what you should remember and focus on as you are going into the competition.

Continue to be natural, confident, strong and focussed.