80 Role Models for 8 Years of iCAN Book Launch – Event Recap

On Tuesday 24 June, we marked a major milestone in iCAN’s journey – our 8th anniversary – with the official launch of our latest Role Models book, in partnership with our sponsor DAC Beachcroft.

Hosted at AXA XL’s stunning offices in central London, the event brought together members of the iCAN community, allies, sponsors and industry leaders to celebrate the 80 inspiring individuals featured in this special edition. With role models from the book taking to the stage for a panel discussion, the evening was a powerful reminder of the talent, drive and impact of multicultural professionals across the insurance industry.

The evening kicked off with a quick welcome speech from DAC Beachcroft’s Morgan Nash, who spoke about social mobility and his own challenges during his professional journey.

iCAN’s Thought Leadership lead Felix Wong then chaired an informative panel discussion featuring five Role Models from this year’s book:

• Dauda Jammeh - FCCA – Head of Finance Operations, Beazley

• Nuria Munoz - Global Head of Talent Acquisition Europe & LatAm, Munich Re

• Ade Coker - Underwriting Graduate, Chaucer Group

• Dawn Dinkins - Chief Operating Officer, Reinsurance, AXA XL

• Donna Scully - Owner/Director, Carpenters Group

Dauda began by saying that being an iCAN Role Model highlights how far he has come, and used this to remind audience members not to let imposter syndrome prevent you from taking that next step – particularly when it comes to mentoring others.

Nuria told us about the difficulties she faced in the past trying to ‘be herself’ and the tension between ‘fitting in’ and ‘being authentic’ – particularly for those from diverse backgrounds. Ultimately, she said she has now learned how important it is to be assertive in order to be true to yourself.

Ade continued this theme, explaining how he felt people who are diverse tend to be very visible in the workplace and advised people who may be struggling to navigate this to start seeing it as a superpower that they stand-out. This helps them use it to their advantage to make an impression and always put their best foot forward.

Dawn spoke about how challenging it can be to the only ethnic person in a work setting, and how intimidating she found it early in her career to be not just the only woman but the only woman of colour at her workplace. She then gave some great advice on recognising that her ‘uniqueness’ meant she had different attributes and perspectives that she could bring value to her role.

Donna then told us about her struggles with imposter syndrome after leaving school early and coming from a working-class background. She explained how important it is to be yourself and to be proud of who you are and where you came from, as we all have something to offer.

The panel were then asked what advice they would give to the next generation.

Ade said the best advice would be to say “Yes” more – go to the event, take the risk/opportunity and believe in yourself.

Nuria said it is important to be find your purpose, be resilient and to see ‘No’s’ as an opportunity – one door closes, another opens.

Dauda said he would advise everyone to find a good role model and to focus your work life around passion, network and action.

Dawn echoed this and said it is important to find a good mentor or role model, as well as focusing on mastering your discipline.

Finally, Donna focused on the importance of being yourself and remembering it’s actually a good thing not to be like everyone else. This in turn helps you become a role model for others like you, as you inspire the next generation: “if you can see it, you can be it”.

The panel discussion provided a lot of useful insight and inspiration, with each speaker offering a unique perspective shaped by their lived experience. From confidence and authenticity to mentorship and resilience, the advice shared on the night reflected many of the themes explored in the 80 Role Models for 8 Years of iCAN publication.

Following the panel, guests had the opportunity to network over food and drinks and connect with role models from the book. It was a celebratory and uplifting evening - and a reminder of the importance of representation, visibility and storytelling in driving inclusion forward.

This year’s book features 80 multicultural professionals from across the UK and US insurance markets, each of whom has contributed their personal journey, reflections and advice for others looking to thrive in the industry. From emerging talent to seasoned leaders, these stories showcase the diversity of voices, experiences and skills shaping the future of insurance.

• Download the online version of the Role Models book here.

Here’s to the next eight years of iCAN, and to continuing to spotlight the talent that drives our industry forward.