As we celebrate Women’s Month and reflect on the progress made across the insurance industry, it is equally important to look ahead to the opportunities that lie before us.
The future of our sector will be shaped by the actions we take today, from creating more inclusive workplaces and expanding leadership opportunities to championing diverse talent and ensuring that women have a seat at every decision-making table.
In the lead-up to our upcoming Women’s Day event, “Grace, Grit and Growth: A Season to Bloom,” GWII invited our valued Silver Sponsors to share their perspectives on a simple but powerful question: What do you hope women in our industry will achieve, experience or change over the next decade?
Their responses offer a collective vision for the future – one where women continue to break barriers, influence meaningful change, lead with confidence and help shape a more equitable, innovative and inclusive insurance industry for generations to come.
We are proud to share their insights below from our Silver Sponsors as part of this year’s Women’s Month reflections.
Women lifting women
Over the next decade, I hope women in our industry will continue to open doors for one another, build strong networks, and create the kind of support systems that help talent flourish. Progress is strongest when women lift as they rise, share knowledge, and build lasting foundations for others to follow. I hope we see more women shaping decisions, influencing change, and creating opportunities that strengthen our industry and communities for years to come. May we do so with kindness and continue to thrive and bloom like flowers in every season.
Zelda Mostert
Country President
Chubb South Africa
Bloom boldly
Grace, grit and growth are more than a theme, they’re an invitation to bloom boldly. My hope is that over the next decade, women in our industry don’t just take up space, but shape it: leading with confidence; redefining leadership and building organisations that are not only successful, but profoundly human. This is not about asking for a seat, but shaping the table. So, step forward, let’s support one another and lead with intent as we grow an industry that truly reflects the people it serves.
Terryn Palani
Chief People Officer
Hollard
Leading with impact
As we look ahead, my aspiration is that women in our industry continue to break barriers and set new benchmarks for leadership and innovation. The next decade should bring not only increased representation, but deeper influence – where women shape strategy, culture, and long-term impact. Importantly, the conversation must shift beyond comparisons, toward integrating complementary strengths – balancing decisiveness with empathy, and performance with inclusion. With resilience and purpose, women will challenge legacy norms, expand leadership archetypes, and drive meaningful change, creating more inclusive, forward-thinking organisations and a lasting legacy of progress and impact.
Ross Simmonds
Managing Director
Innovation Group South Africa
Breaking barriers, leading boldly, shaping the future
Over the next decade, I hope women in the insurance industry will continue to break barriers, lead with confidence, and shape the future of our profession at every level. I would like to see more women represented in executive leadership, influencing strategic decisions and driving innovation. I also hope we continue to build a culture where women actively support, mentor, and champion one another, celebrating successes and creating opportunities for others to grow. Most importantly, I hope the next generation enters our industry knowing that their voices matter, their ambitions are achievable, and their contributions will help create a more inclusive, resilient, and customer-focused sector.
Brunhilde Gerber
Deputy Head of School
Milpark School of Financial Services
Women leading with purpose and impact
Your personal brand is more than a title or role. It is reflected in how you lead, the values you uphold and the impact you have on those around you. Every day, women across the insurance industry are building trust, driving progress and inspiring others through their expertise and authentic leadership. This Women’s Month, we celebrate the unique strengths that make each of you a powerful force for change.
Andiswa Madolo
Marketing Manager
Sasria SOC Ltd
From breaking barriers to opening doors
Over the next decade, I envision women leading with confidence, resilience, and purpose, shaping a future that is innovative, inclusive, and prosperous for all. Women will increasingly lead major businesses, drive technological innovation, influence policy, and create solutions that deliver both economic and social impact. By investing in one another, challenging limiting beliefs, expanding access to education, and building strong support networks, we will unlock greater opportunities for future generations. Success will not be measured by the barriers we overcome, but by the doors we open for others. My hope is that every girl grows up believing she belongs in any leadership she chooses to pursue. Let us commit to mentoring, supporting, and uplifting women and girls today to create the leaders of tomorrow.
Dr Philile Mkhize
Group Chief Operating Officer
Santam
