In honour of Women’s Month, FAnews, on behalf of Gauteng Women in Insurance (GWII), caught up with Velene Peters, President of the GWII, to hear her thoughts on empowerment, leadership, and the continued journey of women in the insurance industry.
Here, she shares a heartfelt message of inspiration for all GWII women this Women’s Month.
A Q&A with Velene Peters
Women have the strength to challenge the status quo. What barriers do you believe still need breaking, and where should our focus be – both now and looking ahead?
The greatest barrier women continue to face is often the one that exists in the minds and assumptions of society. Despite the progress that has been made, many women still find themselves having to prove their competence, credibility, and right to belong in spaces where their male counterparts are accepted without question.
One need only consider the ‘likeability bias’ that women continue to face in the workplace. Traits that are often celebrated in male leaders – assertiveness, decisiveness, confidence, and ambition – are frequently viewed differently when displayed by women. A man who is direct may be seen as strong and capable, while a woman exhibiting the same behaviour risks being labelled as bossy, aggressive, or difficult.
This double standard forces many women to navigate an impossible balancing act: being strong enough to lead, yet careful not to appear “too strong”; being confident enough to be heard, yet cautious not to be perceived as intimidating. As a result, women often spend valuable energy managing perceptions in ways that men seldom have to.
These deeply entrenched beliefs continue to slow meaningful progress and limit the diversity of thought that organisations and societies need to thrive. Our focus must be on challenging outdated perceptions, creating environments where women are evaluated on their capability rather than preconceived notions, and ensuring that future generations inherit opportunities free from unnecessary barriers.
In your view, what will be the most significant challenge facing the next generation of women leaders?
The next generation of women leaders will navigate a world increasingly shaped by amplified opinions, bias, and polarised perspectives. Their challenge will not only be to lead effectively but also to remain confident in their voice amidst the noise.
Women must continue to invest in their education, skills, and personal development so that their expertise speaks louder than the stereotypes that seek to diminish them. Equally important is the creation of spaces where women can learn from one another, collaborate, and thrive. The women who come after us should not have to fight the same battles alone – they should inherit stronger networks, greater opportunities, and a culture of collective success.
For women aspiring to lead – what guidance or words of encouragement would you offer?
Leadership does not exist in a predefined box. Each woman has the opportunity to define what leadership means for her own life.
For some, leadership may be found in executive positions and boardrooms. For others, it may be raising children, serving their communities, building businesses, or creating opportunities for those around them. Leadership is less about titles and more about influence, purpose, and impact.
My advice is to invest deeply in understanding yourself – your values, your beliefs, and what truly matters to you. Surround yourself with people who encourage your growth and challenge you to become better. Once you have defined what leadership looks like for you, pursue it unapologetically. Authentic leadership begins when we stop trying to fit someone else’s definition of success.
The phrase “women who support women are more successful” has gained momentum. What’s your perspective on the power of women uplifting one another?
The success of women should be the concern of all women.
Every time a woman succeeds, her voice gains influence in spaces where important decisions are made. Her presence creates visibility, opens doors, and challenges perceptions about who belongs at the table.
When women actively support, mentor, and advocate for one another, the impact extends far beyond any single individual. The ripple effect is felt across organisations, industries, communities, and future generations. There is enough room for all of us to succeed, and our collective progress is accelerated when we choose collaboration over competition.
In your opinion, what does it truly mean to be a woman in the 21st century?
Being a woman in the 21st century presents us with the remarkable opportunity to define our own paths.
Today, women have greater freedom than ever before to decide how they show up in the world, what success looks like to them, and how they choose to lead. We can be ambitious and compassionate, strong and empathetic, confident and humble.
Being a woman in the 21st century means embracing the freedom to make choices aligned with our values rather than conforming to society’s expectations. It means leading with integrity, celebrating our own achievements without apology, and taking genuine joy in the success of others. It means recognising that strength comes in many forms and that authenticity remains one of the most powerful expressions of leadership.
Why is it essential that women’s voices are not only heard, but amplified, in today’s world?
We live in an increasingly complex and often polarised world. The challenges facing our organisations, communities, and countries require diverse perspectives and inclusive decision-making.
Women’s voices bring valuable experiences, insights, and approaches to leadership that strengthen outcomes and enrich conversations. Amplifying women’s voices is not simply about representation – it is about ensuring that decisions are informed by a broader range of experiences and viewpoints. When women are heard, organisations become stronger, communities become more resilient, and society benefits from more balanced and thoughtful leadership.
What message would you like to share with the remarkable women working across our industry?
To the remarkable women I have the privilege of sharing the insurance industry with – whether you work in underwriting, claims, broking, sales, compliance, operations, or leadership – I encourage you to fully embrace your role as a leader.
Remember:
- #SheLeads not always from the top, but through excellence in every role.
- #SheLeads as a claims manager, bringing calm to moments of chaos.
- #SheLeads as a broker building trust one conversation at a time.
- #SheLeads in compliance, ensuring integrity remains at the heart of our industry.
- #SheLeads in service-provider organisations, believing she belongs at the decision-making table.
Never underestimate the influence you have through your expertise, professionalism, and example. Leadership is not reserved for a title – it is demonstrated every day through the impact we have on those around us.
Lastly, do you have any closing thoughts or inspirational words to leave with us this Women’s Month?
This Women’s Month, I encourage every woman to lead boldly in spaces that were not originally designed with us in mind.
Grow intentionally. Continue to evolve, stretch yourself, and become more than you were yesterday. Support other women, celebrate their successes, and never allow comparison to distract you from your own journey.
Most importantly, remember that leadership is not a destination – it is a daily choice. A choice to act with courage, integrity, grace, and purpose.
When women choose to lead authentically, they do more than transform their own lives – they help shape a future where the next generation of women can rise even higher.