Gauteng Women in Insurance (GWII) is pleased to announce that Easvarie Naidoo, a GWII committee member, has assumed the position of GWII Deputy President for 2026.
Easvarie joined GWII as a member in 2016 and was elected to the committee in January 2023. Stepping in as the new Deputy President, she tells us a little bit more about herself and how she came to join the GWII.
A Q&A session
Can you tell us a bit about your journey in the insurance industry and what led you to your current role as Deputy President of GWII?
Like many others in the industry, I ended up in insurance by accident in April 2008 and never looked back. I was a Senior Legal Advisor for Old Mutual Insure for five and a half years, before joining the South African Insurance Association where I was a Senior Legal Manager for five and a half years. I then joined Lloyd’s in September 2019 where I am the Lloyd’s General Representative for South Africa. My journey in insurance has been both rewarding and humbling. Each role has deepened my understanding of how insurance impacts lives and communities. Lloyd’s is very supportive of both educational and women platforms in the insurance industry. It was therefore easy to join GWII with Lloyd’s support, together with the incredible women in our local office. Joining GWII allowed me to give back – to create spaces where women could connect, learn, and lead. Becoming Deputy President is a continuation of that purpose.
What inspired you to take on a leadership role within GWII?
I have always believed that leadership is also about service – using your voice and experience to lift others. GWII has played such an important role in my own growth, so when the opportunity came to serve in a leadership capacity, it felt like a natural step. I want to contribute to shaping the kind of platform that had once inspired me.
How would you describe your leadership style, and how does it complement Velene Peters’ vision as President?
I lead with a combination of authentic leadership and servant leadership styles. Velene is very much a servant leader. Both styles are rooted in trust, integrity, genuine care for people and making people feel valued. I think our styles are indeed complementary and will serve us well in our partnership to lead GWII in 2026.
What are your main areas of focus or goals as Deputy President this year?
My main focus is on strengthening engagement – ensuring our members feel connected to GWII throughout the year, not just at events. I also want to help expand our mentorship and skills development initiatives, because building the next generation of female leaders is central to our mission. Lastly, I will be working closely with the committee to enhance collaboration with industry partners and sponsors.
The theme for this year is #SheLeads. What does that phrase mean to you personally?
I love this theme! To me, it means showing up with integrity, empowering others, and paving the way for more women to lead confidently.
How do you see GWII evolving over the next few years, and what role do you hope to play in that transformation?
I see GWII becoming an even stronger voice for women in the insurance sector – not just a networking platform, but a driver of professional development, mentorship, and social impact. I hope to help position GWII as a thought leader on gender equity and empowerment within our industry; while ensuring we remain a warm and inclusive community.
Are there any upcoming events, initiatives, or programs you’re especially excited to be involved in?
I’m especially excited about the collaboration with the Institute of Directors in South Africa (IodSA), which provides an opportunity for GWII members to obtain Director training. I’m also looking forward to our flagship Women’s Day event that blends inspiration, learning, and community – it truly captures the spirit of GWII. This event is particularly popular with the ladies, and it is always delightful to witness how much they enjoy it, particularly with the amazing powerhouse of women speakers we have lined up, year after year.
How does GWII foster leadership and growth among its members, and how are you helping drive that mission?
GWII creates spaces for women to learn, connect, and be seen. Through mentorship, education, and networking, we help members build both confidence and capability. In my role, I’m focused on amplifying those opportunities – ensuring we reach more women, at different stages of their careers, and that our members feel empowered to grow.
What advice would you give to younger women entering the insurance industry today?
Be curious, be courageous, and don’t underestimate your voice. The insurance industry is full of opportunities for women who are willing to learn and lead. Find mentors, build your network, and stay true to your values. You belong in every room you walk into!
Finally, what message would you like to share with GWII members as we embark on this exciting year together?
Let’s keep lifting each other up. Let’s keep showing what happens when women lead with strength and compassion. This is going to be a year of growth, impact, and inspiration – and I’m honoured to walk this journey with every one of you.