The Dive In Festival, a three-day event focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), has commenced and will run until Sept. 28. Across six continents, numerous events will delve into crucial DE&I issues.
A survey encompassing more than 7,000 individuals from the insurance and business sectors was conducted to gauge the state of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the industry. The results revealed that 72% perceive the insurance industry as more diverse and inclusive compared to when they initially joined. However, participants emphasized the need for further actions, particularly in mental health (68%), gender equality (42%), and racial equality (33%). Other highlighted areas included mentorship, inclusion, AI, and non-visible disabilities.
In response, Dive In is introducing “Dive In to Reverse Mentoring,” a cross-industry initiative pairing senior leaders (mentees) with junior leaders (mentors) to discuss DE&I topics. This initiative aims to encourage continuous learning and collaboration across the industry, fostering fresh perspectives, visions, and skills to advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and innovation.
“Reverse mentoring is a way of putting key DE&I topics firmly on the tables of senior leaders and empowering the new generation to speak truth to power on important topics. We hope it will stimulate important discussions and result in new initiatives and innovations that will make the industry more innovative and forward-thinking, and ultimately lead to a more inclusive culture,” Lloyd’s head of culture Mark Lomas said.
Meanwhile, WTW global head of inclusion and diversity Jenifer Denby commented on the research findings, saying that mental health remains a top priority for the sector for the third year in a row.
“Given recent statistics by HSE found that work-related stress accounts for half of all lost working days and costs employers up to £56 billion annually, this is unsurprising,” Denby said. “This makes it clear that addressing DE&I issues like mental health is not just a ‘nice to have’, it’s a commercial imperative. Not only can it help the industry address its own risks, but it can create a competitive advantage as a source of innovation. Dive In provides a wealth of resources and practical insights to help individuals and organizations not only de-risk, but also spark innovation.”
Since its inception in 2015, Dive In has been committed to nurturing inclusive workplace cultures within the insurance sector. This year’s theme, “Unlocking Innovation: The Power of Inclusion,” emphasizes the industry's role in driving transformative change, fostering inclusivity, and catalyzing innovation to address global challenges such as natural catastrophes, the net-zero transition, supply chain management, and cyber risks.
A significant development this year is the introduction of continuing professional development (CPD) hours, enhancing the festival's value proposition and attracting a broader international audience.
The festival will feature speakers from various parts of the world. Notable individuals include French motocross and swimming champion Axel Allétru, UK-based space scientist Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock MBE, and Jason Robinson, the first Black British man to captain the England rugby team.
The festival continues to receive support from its Global Festival Partners, demonstrating the industry’s collective commitment to DE&I. Confirmed partners include AIG, Allied World, Aon, Arch, Aviva, AXA, BMS, Chubb, CNA, DLA Piper, Everest, Gallagher, Howden, Kennedys, Lloyd’s, Liberty Mutual, Markel, Marsh McLennan, Moody’s, Munich RE, RenaissanceRe, RMS, SCOR, Sompo International, Tokio Marine Kiln, Travelers, and WTW.
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