Women who reshape the insurance industry
women-who-reshape-the-insurance-industry
This Women's Month, we celebrate the remarkable contributions of women in short-term insurance. Orlandi Pretorius and Vianca van Aswegen, broker consultants at Auto&General, respectively serve on the organising committees of the Insurance Institute of the Eastern Cape (IIEC) and the Insurance Institute of Gauteng (IIG). We spoke to them about how industry engagement drives both personal growth and broader industry impact.
The power of presence
"Being out there builds knowledge, credibility, and strong networks," explains Vianca. "It keeps you ahead of industry changes and teaches you to collaborate and have insightful conversations that everyone can grow from." This insight captures the essence of why visibility matters in expanding your influence as a broker.
Orlandi reinforces this perspective, highlighting how "visibility and active engagement build credibility and rapport" while providing crucial platforms for information sharing and networking. Joining industry organisations is a two-way street for brokers. Not only do they gain valuable knowledge, but they also contribute their own expertise, which helps the entire industry grow and ultimately benefits clients.
Navigating unique challenges
The reality is that women in short-term insurance still face distinct challenges. Orlandi notes the persistence of gender bias, particularly in commercial insurance, where "clients may unconsciously prefer to deal with a male when it comes to certain risk types." However, both women demonstrate how strategic industry involvement becomes a powerful tool for overcoming these barriers.
Vianca found strength in being "surrounded by women who lead with dignity, support one another, and celebrate each other's wins." This highlights how industry participation creates supportive ecosystems that extend far beyond formal networking events.
Strategic relationship building
The advice from both consultants’ centres on intentional relationship building. "Be strategic about your relationships and your personal brand," advises Orlandi, while emphasising the
importance of finding suitable mentors and continuous learning. Vianca encourages young brokers to "be curious, keep learning, and never shy away from asking questions" while carrying themselves with poise and celebrating peers' success.
This approach to relationship building isn't just about personal advancement. It's about creating a collaborative environment that drives innovation and growth across the entire industry.
Creating systemic change
Perhaps most importantly, both women recognise the transformative role that industry organisations can play. From creating spaces where all voices throughout different generations are valued, to mentorship programmes that can contribute to growth.
The ripple effect of influence
When one actively engages in industry organisations, one creates a ripple effect that extends far beyond your own practice. You can influence policy, drive innovation, mentor newcomers, and help shape an industry culture that values diverse perspectives and collaborative growth.
This Women's Month, the message is clear: expanding your influence through industry participation isn't just about personal success. It's about building a more inclusive, innovative, and impactful insurance sector. As more women step into leadership roles and active participation, they're not just breaking barriers; they're building bridges to a stronger industry future.
Auto&General is a licensed non-life Insurer and Financial Services Provider.
