The Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario (IBAO) has announced a new partnership with Link Canada, the premier 2SLGBTQ+ Insurance Network, to demonstrate its support for the 2SLGBTQ+ community within the insurance sector.
As part of its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), IBAO aims to provide increased visibility and cultivate inclusive leadership practices through this strategic collaboration.
According to IBAO president Suzanne Pountney, the partnership reflects the organization's dedication to advancing DEI objectives.
"Diversity, equity, and inclusion continue to be key priorities of IBAO, and collaborations like this help drive our objectives," said Pountney. The alliance will facilitate Link's expansion across the Ontario insurance industry and jointly develop inclusive leadership best practices. Through these combined efforts, DEI initiatives and programs will be expanded throughout the sector.
While Link UK was established in 2012, Link Canada was recently founded in 2023 to provide essential support to the local LGBTQ2S+ community within the insurance industry.
Link will offer educational resources for individuals new to the conversation, fostering welcoming and inclusive networking opportunities.
Additionally, the organization will assist companies in establishing successful employee resource groups, promoting a culture of belonging and empowerment.
Recognizing the importance of visibility in driving cultural change, Dave Dhillon, co-chair of Link Canada, expressed gratitude for IBAO's sponsorship. "Sponsorships like IBAO's go a long way in helping us amplify our message and reach the broader insurance community," Dhillon said.
Through this partnership, both IBAO and Link Canada aim to transform the insurance industry by fostering an inclusive environment that embraces diversity and empowers individuals from the 2SLGBTQ+ community and their allies.