The Dive In Festival, a three-day event focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), has commenced and will run until September 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 emphasised 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 organisations 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,” emphasises the industry's role in driving transformative change, fostering inclusivity, and catalysing 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.
To formally open the festival in London, Lloyd’s has engaged Franklyn Rodgers, an acclaimed artist, to craft six portraits of diverse role models. These artworks will be exhibited in Lloyd’s esteemed Old Library, symbolising the strides made in fostering an inclusive cultural marketplace.
Positioned alongside existing portraits of past Lloyd’s chairpersons, this new artwork will mark the commencement of the prestigious event that celebrates diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) within the insurance industry.
The six role models were carefully selected to acknowledge their outstanding efforts in advocating for DE&I in the insurance market, each reflecting their unique journey. Shot within and around the Lloyd’s premises, in harmony with the historical tradition of portraiture, these portraits encapsulate their life and accomplishments.
This initiative celebrates the notable contributions of these individuals, underscoring their pivotal role in fostering inclusive cultures within the Lloyd’s market. The six champions of diversity and inclusion are:
The artist behind these portraits, Franklyn Rodgers, is a distinguished portrait artist and creative director, with his works permanently held in prestigious collections like the National Portrait Gallery, Tate Britain, Wellcome Collection, Autograph-ABP, Queen Mary University of London, and Arts Council England.
“Being ‘heard’ visually is fundamental to being seen. It was important for me to work in collaboration with the subjects empowering representation of them in their truth,” Rodgers said. “Getting to know the sitters and the history of Lloyd’s has supported the creation of the portraits that resonate with each of their principles. In being who they are, they inspire others to attain their own success through this dignified bravery and strength, the transformation of a culture that can be more inclusive in valuing everyone.”
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