Join iCAN for an enchanting Eid Celebration in collaboration with Brit and Ki Insurance.

Hosted by iCAN's Enam Islam, this event promises an evening filled with cultural richness, unity, and joy as we come together to mark this special occasion.

Indulge in a delightful array of traditional cuisine, immerse yourself in vibrant cultural speaker, and share heartfelt moments of connection with colleagues and friends. From the sights and sounds of celebration to the warmth of shared experiences, our Eid Celebration invites you to embrace diversity and strengthen bonds within our community.

As we gather to celebrate Eid, let us also reflect on the values of inclusivity and harmony that define our organisations. Together, let's celebrate the spirit of unity and understanding, embodying the true essence of this festive season.

We look forward to welcoming you to our Eid Celebration, where cultures converge and friendships flourish.

Eid Mubarak!

Celebrate International Women's Month with iCAN in Manchester!

Join us for an inspiring panel discussion featuring accomplished leaders from the world of Insurance, Finance and Sport. Our distinguished panelists will share their personal journeys, insights, and experiences in navigating their careers and breaking barriers..

This empowering event aims to highlight the achievements of women in business and sport, foster meaningful discussions on diversity and inclusion, and inspire the next generation of female leaders.

The panel will cover a range of topics, including career progression, overcoming challenges, and the importance of role models, sponsorship and mentorship.

THIS EVENT IS OPEN TO EVERYONE - don't miss this fantastic networking opportunity at the awesome KPMG Manchester office!

Hosted by iCAN's Connect Lead Bal Mahil, this event will also feature:

🪐 Nazmin Mohal - Snr Internal Auditor & Multicultural Network Chair of Ageas UK and iCAN Role Model

🪐 Leon Carford - Head of Risk & Compliance at Atlanta Group and iCAN Role Model

🪐 Katie Clinton - Partner at KPMG

🪐 Shanaze Reade - 3 x Championship Winning BMX Racer & Olympian!

Join us in Manchester for an inspiring panel discussion featuring accomplished leaders from insurance, consulting and sports backgrounds. The inspirational panel will share their insights and experiences in navigating their careers and leading the way!

Don't miss this brilliant networking opportunity - plenty of time to connect with new faces, reconnect with old friends and with food and refreshments provided, you won't want to miss this!

iCAN will be photographing the event for our marketing purposes. If you don't wish to be in photographs, please confirm this with the team.

Join iCAN, in collaboration with ABI (Association of British Insurers) and The LTL Collective, for a transformative event on International Women's Day.

This empowering gathering aims to spotlight the remarkable journeys of accomplished female leaders navigating the insurance industry. Our esteemed speakers, comprising both accomplished female leaders and male allies, will share invaluable insights, shedding light on challenges faced and victories achieved. Through personal stories and professional triumphs, these leaders inspire attendees to break barriers and forge their own paths in the insurance sector.

In addition to celebrating women's achievements, the event will feature a keynote speaker followed by a fireside chat, offering deeper insights into the industry landscape and strategies for success. We will also delve into the topics of “hyper-visible invisibility”, exploring how ethnic minority women can navigate these challenges effectively. Furthermore, our discussion will address the importance of networking for ethnic minority women, providing practical tips and strategies to help further their careers in an inclusive manner.

THIS EVENT IS OPEN TO EVERYONE - don't miss this fantastic networking opportunity at the brilliant ABI London Office.

Hosted by iCAN's Operations Manager Echaunti Swan, this event will also feature:

🌴 Sheryl Fernando - ABI (Association of British Insurers)

🌴 Shazia Deenally - Allianz

🌴 Teniola Tijani - The LTL Collective/IQUW

🌴 Huw Evans - KPMG

Join us in London at ABI for an inspiring panel discussion featuring accomplished leaders from insurance, finance and sports backgrounds. The distinguished panel will share their journeys, insights, and experiences in navigating their careers and breaking barriers.

Don't miss this brilliant networking opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals, gain valuable insights, and be part of a vibrant community dedicated to advancing equality!

Networking and refreshments to follow!

Celebrate International Women's Month with iCAN in Birmingham!

Join us for an inspiring panel discussion featuring accomplished leaders from the world of Insurance, Finance and Sport. Our distinguished panelists will share their personal journeys, insights, and experiences in navigating their careers and breaking barriers.

This empowering event aims to highlight the achievements of women in business and sport, foster meaningful discussions on diversity and inclusion, and inspire the next generation of female leaders.

The panel will cover a range of topics, including career progression, overcoming challenges, and the importance of role models, sponsorship and mentorship.

Speaker announcement incoming!

Don't miss this opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals, gain valuable insights, and be part of a vibrant community dedicated to advancing equality.

Networking and refreshments to follow!

On Tuesday 13 February join iCAN, AXA XL and Marsh in celebrating the Year of the Dragon!

At this fun -filled event you’ll learn more about why we should all come together in celebrating Lunar New Year. We’ll explore the reason for Lunar New Year's significance as well as the customs and traditions around East Asia in celebrating the auspicious occasion.

You will get to enjoy the mesmerising Lion Dance, symbolising good luck, and embark on a cultural exploration through three themed rooms, each offering diverse activities and delectable cuisines.

Don't miss the captivating Chinese dance performance by iCAN ESEA Communities Member Emma Lin too!

The event will also give you great opportunities to network and enjoy some delicious East Asian food.

Wear red!

Red is a colour synonymised with good luck, success and good fortune in East Asian culture. So why not pop on something red when you attend as this event, which is open to all iCAN members and is free of charge. Ring in the Year of the Dragon with good fortune, prosperity, and an event to remember!

There are limited numbers so make sure to secure your ticket!

Dress code: Business casual with a touch of red

Birmingham! Let's get career ready for 2024!

We are very excited to partner with the CII and Marsh to present the Professional Map Workshop - which will give you everything you need to navigate your professional journey in 2024.

From guiding your career planning to aiding in job applications and progression, this comprehensive workshop is designed to empower individuals at every stage of their Insurance career.

With attendance from the iCAN Birmingham Team, Angela Irvine (current President of the CII Birmingham) and facilitated by CII Insight Manager Vanessa Riboloni, this event is a must do if you are looking to succeed in 2024.

The event is after work at 5.30pm at Marsh, Birmingham, and will be followed by networking and refreshments.

The key areas of the workshop include:

Technical Expertise: Central to the Professional Map, this section outlines role-specific knowledge and skills crucial for excelling in your job. Gain the insights needed to perform proficiently and achieve business goals effectively.

Behaviours: Explore the actions and attitudes that shape decision-making and work relationships. Emphasising the application of knowledge in various situations, this aspect contributes to a positive and productive work environment.

Enablers: Focus on cultivating awareness of elements within the working environment that facilitate professional practice. Understand industry regulations and compliance, enabling effective application of required behaviours.

Universal Applicability: Behaviours and Enablers are universal, applying to everyone regardless of their job roles. These elements play a pivotal role in shaping overall professionalism and work ethics.

Job-Specific Implementation: Tailored to each role, Technical Expertise encompasses the unique knowledge and skills required for efficient task performance, ensuring effective contribution to your team and organisation.

Benefits:
The Professional Map empowers individuals with a comprehensive framework for self-assessment, career growth, and continuous development. Leverage this tool to identify areas of improvement, enhance your competencies, and stay aligned with your career goals.

Join us at our amazing Sponsors Marsh in Birmingham on 06/02- spaces are limited so sign up to avoid disappointment!

Manchester! Let's get ready for 2024!

We are very excited to partner with the CII and Aviva to present the Professional Map Workshop - which will give you everything you need to navigating your professional journey in 2024.

From guiding your career planning to aiding in job applications and progression, this comprehensive workshop is designed to empower individuals at every stage of their Insurance career.

With attendance from the iCAN Manchester Team, Sandra McDonald (current President of the CII Manchester) and facilitated by CII Insight Manager Vanessa Riboloni, this event is a must do if you are looking to succeed in 2024.

The event is after work at 5.30pm, and will be followed by networking and refreshments.

The key areas of the workshop include:

Technical Expertise: Central to the Professional Map, this section outlines role-specific knowledge and skills crucial for excelling in your job. Gain the insights needed to perform proficiently and achieve business goals effectively.

Behaviours: Explore the actions and attitudes that shape decision-making and work relationships. Emphasising the application of knowledge in various situations, this aspect contributes to a positive and productive work environment.

Enablers: Focus on cultivating awareness of elements within the working environment that facilitate professional practice. Understand industry regulations and compliance, enabling effective application of required behaviours.

Universal Applicability: Behaviours and Enablers are universal, applying to everyone regardless of their job roles. These elements play a pivotal role in shaping overall professionalism and work ethics.

Job-Specific Implementation: Tailored to each role, Technical Expertise encompasses the unique knowledge and skills required for efficient task performance, ensuring effective contribution to your team and organisation.

Benefits:
The Professional Map empowers individuals with a comprehensive framework for self-assessment, career growth, and continuous development. Leverage this tool to identify areas of improvement, enhance your competencies, and stay aligned with your career goals.

Join us at our amazing Sponsors Aviva in Manchester on 22/01- spaces are limited so sign up to avoid disappointment!

We want to invite you to participate in our Insurance Cultural Awareness Network (iCAN) Coffee with the CEO initiative.

This initiative will help our members develop their networks, engage with role models, and work towards developing multicultural leaders.

We are thrilled to announce that we will be hosting an in-person session with Lorraine Harfitt, the CEO of Asta.

Joining Asta as Head of Risk Assurance in 2013, Lorraine was appointed as Chief Operating Officer in April 2014 with responsibility for the continued development and enhancement of Asta’s successful operating model. Lorraine then moved into the role of Managing Director in early 2021 and was appointed Chief Executive Officer in August 2022.

Location: Asta London

Please sign up by the 11th January 2024 as only a limited number of seats are available.

The session is designed to be open and interactive, with discussion and an opportunity for members to ask Lorraine Harfitt for career advice, tips on development, and leadership topics. 

If you're interested in participating in this session, please click the link below to fill out the form and 20 iCAN members will be selected based on their answers

We are a group of cross-market networks within the insurance market that focus on specific diversity and inclusion needs - working together to drive change.

The Partner Networks help to develop initiatives, host events, and share best practice guidance for D&I within and beyond the London Market, across the UK and internationally.

Join us on 12th December, at One Under Lime, London, where we have a private drinks area and there will be plenty of time to eat, drink, network and be merry!

There are limited numbers so make sure to secure your ticket!

(Ample drinks and festive nibbles included in ticket price)

We are delighted to invite you to the launch of iCAN Manchester, an initiative aimed at promoting diversity and career progression in the North West financial services market.

This event will provide an evening of networking and insights from industry experts on how to advance your career in the North West region, as well as give you the confidence to plan ahead for 2024.

During the event there will be a key-note from the brilliant Jessica Cunningham, Star of The BBC's The Apprentice and Founder and CEO of Belief Coding.

Following this, there will be an all-star Manchester panel hosted by Kishan Mangat, Co-Chair of iCAN featuring:

- Michael Yabantu - Managing Director of Mid-Market, Aviva

- Sandra McDonald – President of the Chartered Institute of Insurance Manchester, and Global Client Services Lead, McLarens

- Nathan Dyke – Sales Operations Lead, Autotrader and Cast Member of Survivor UK 2023 –

- Jessica Cunningham

This in-person event is the perfect opportunity to build your network, connect with like-minded individuals and gain valuable insights into how to build your career and drive the Manchester Financial Services sector forwards!

With an estimated 100-150 attendees expected, we anticipate a fantastic evening of conversation and collaboration. You won't want to miss out on this exciting opportunity to elevate your career in the North West!

The event will be taking place on Tuesday 5th Dec 2023 from 5.30pm – 8.30pm at etc Venues, Portland Street, Manchester.

We look forward to seeing you there and excited to officially kick off the festive season with the launch of iCAN Manchester!

Join us for an exciting evening of mentoring at the 2nd speed mentoring event hosted by iCAN in collaboration with QBE.

Welcome to one of our BEST event series, iCAN Speed Mentoring!

Incorporating a format reminiscent of speed-dating, this event provides an engaging platform for mentors and mentees to participate in a series of concise yet impactful sessions throughout the evening. These sessions are tailored to offer invaluable guidance and insights that can make a significant difference in your professional journey, as well as addressing and finding solutions to workplace challenges.

With time for networking, mentorship and building those valuable relationships you need - iCAN Speed mentoring has it all - and we are SO excited to be hosting our next session with QBE.

Don't miss out, places are limited!

About iCAN INspire - the Self-Service Mentoring Platform

iCAN INspire is our innovative self-service mentoring platform designed to foster meaningful connections between iCAN members and experienced senior leaders, consultants, or entrepreneurs in the insurance industry.

At iCAN, we understand the power of mentorship. That's why we've created INspire, a platform that enables you to connect with industry experts, gain new perspectives, and navigate your career path more effectively through mentoring. Whether you're seeking guidance on career progression, industry insights, or professional development, our speed mentoring event is an excellent opportunity to engage with mentors who can provide the support and advice you need.

SPECIALIST ONLINE EVENT FOR EMPLOYEE NETWORK GROUPS, AND HR, DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION, AND TALENT TEAMS!

Join iCAN Connect for IMPACT: Data, Disclosure & Pay Gap – an insightful event tailored for Network Leaders, Heads of HR, DEI, Talent and their respective teams within the insurance industry.

In an era where data-driven decision-making is paramount, this virtual event dives deep into the significance of collecting data, communicating the benefits and ultimately reporting in both the Gender and Ethnicity pay gap reports.

Our esteemed panel of experts will dissect the challenges, opportunities, and best practices related to data disclosure and pay equity. We'll especially explore the pivotal role that networks and HR/Talent/DEI teams can play in the collection of data.

This special event will be support DEI professionals across the industry in making their own organisational decisions easier, give them best practice and practical tips that will make a big impact to their firms. This event is not just about discussing challenges; it's about charting a course towards actionable solutions.

Join us to uncover the insights, strategies, and tools necessary to harness the power of data and disclosure to narrow pay gaps and foster a more inclusive, equitable, and thriving insurance industry.

About iCAN CONNECT

Designed to create a safe space for DEI network leaders across the insurance sector, iCAN Connect was developed in July 2020 to connect network leads and heads of DEI, HR and Talent to discuss key industry issues and best practices.

iCAN Connect facilitates conversation and discussions around major issues within DEI and allows participants the opportunity to share their own firm-wide initiatives and learn from others.

The group now stands at just under 300 strong from across the industry.

We believe that sharing information and encouraging dialogue helps create better, more diverse businesses and a more inclusive sector for all.

Join iCAN Birmingham, in partnership with Beazley for "Celebrating Diwali in Midlands: The Festival of Light and Happiness"!

This November, at the brilliant Beazley office in Birmingham, we invite you to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, in a special event where you can immerse yourself in its diverse traditions and educational significance.

Discover the heartwarming mission of the Diwali Basket Brigade, a community initiative led by local volunteers, founded by Deepak Parekh, celebrate with music and dance, and enjoy a delightful culinary journey featuring authentic Indian cuisine - as well as getting to network with many others from the Midlands financial services sector.

Come join us for a memorable celebration of culture, unity, and giving.

Date: Thursday 9 Nov 2023

Time: 17:30 - 20:00

Location: Beazley Birmingham Office, 2 Cornwall Street Birmingham B3 2DX

Cost: Free

Join iCAN, in partnership with Gallagher, The Insurance Families Network, and Tokio Marine Kiln for "Diwali Spectacular: Celebrating the Festival of Hope and Happiness"!

This November, at the fantastic Gallagher office in London, we invite you to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, in a special event where you can immerse yourself in its diverse traditions and educational significance.

Discover the heartwarming mission of the Diwali Basket Brigade, a community initiative led by local volunteers, founded by Deepak Parekh. They extend generosity to those in need during the favorable festival of Diwali who will share the stroy of Diwali, and how their organisation makes a difference.

We will also celebrate with music and dance, and a delightful culinary journey featuring authentic Indian cuisine - as well as getting to network with many others from financial services.

Come join us for a memorable celebration of culture, unity, and giving.

Date: Tuesday 7 Nov 2023

Time: 17:30 - 20:00

Location: Gallagher Insurance, Risk Management & Consulting, 25 Walbrook London EC4N 8AF

Cost: Free

Join iCAN (The Insurance Cultural Awareness Network) for the 3rd Annual Black Owned Market, a dynamic event dedicated to championing and showcasing black-owned businesses to the insurance industry.

In partnership with BMS Group and Tokio Marine Kiln, this year's Black-Owned Market event is your opportunity to shine and connect with people from the industry and supporting Black-Owned Businesses!

Our goal is to help black-owned businesses expand their presence and seize opportunities in the insurance sector.

Why Attend?

By attending, you will be:

• Supporting and Promoting Black-Owned Businesses

• Meeting Vendors

• Supporting them to expand their Client Base

• Being able to purchase and learn about some truly diverse products and services

What kind of businesses will be there?

• Expect food, clothing, drinks and great gift ideas!

• And yes, the Rum Cakes will be back!!!

This is the 3rd event, and after the past 2 years, we’re glad to be back and bigger than ever!

Don't miss out on this fantastic event that celebrates diversity, promotes business excellence, and empowers black entrepreneurs!

Date: Thursday 26 Oct 2023

Time: 17:30 - 20:30

Location: BMS Group, 1 America Square London EC3N 2LS

Cost: Free

iCAN is proud to launch our new iCAN ESEA Community group for people of East and South East Asian heritage, as part of our ongoing commitment to supporting ethnic minorities across financial services.

To mark this launch, as well as celebrating ESEA Heritage Month and Mid-Autumn Festival, please join us for our event, “Roots and Routes of the East and South East Asian Community” at our sponsor Convex’s offices in London.

👉🏽 Are you curious about the vibrant experiences of individuals with ESEA backgrounds?

👉🏽 Ever wondered how their stories intertwine with the world of insurance?

👉🏽 Look no further!

Get ready for an evening filled with inspiring discussions with our fire-side chats, networking and food, and as it’s a celebration, we’re bringing you a dash of comedy from an award winning ESEA comedian!

Plus, in another iCAN first, we’re encouraging you to invite along your line manager, executives, or curious coworkers to learn, connect, and show allyship.

Mark your calendar, gather your appetite, and prepare for an event that celebrates diversity, fosters community, and sparks meaningful conversations.

Let's explore together, learn from one another, and grow as a united ESEA community within the insurance world.

See you there!

Date: Thursday 14th September, 2023

Time: 5:30pm to 8:00pm

Location: Convex Group, 52 Lime Street London EC3M 7AF

Cost: Free

iCAN and its gold sponsor Marsh are delighted to invite you to their Lunar New Year Celebrations!

On Thursday 26 January join iCAN and Marsh in celebrating the Year of the Rabbit!

At this fun -filled event you’ll learn more about why we should all come together in celebrating Lunar New Year. We’ll explore the reason for Lunar New Year's significance as well as the customs and traditions around East Asia in celebrating the auspicious occasion. The event will feature speakers discussing what Lunar New Year means to them as well as East Asian food and networking opportunities.

Wear red!

Red is a colour synonymised with good luck, success and good fortune in East Asian culture. So why not pop on something red when you attend as this event, which is open to all iCAN members and is free of charge. Ring in the Year of the Rabbit with good fortune, prosperity, and an event to remember!

There are limited numbers so make sure to secure your ticket!

Date: Thursday 26th January, 2023

Time: 5:30pm to 8:00pm

Location: Marsh 1, Tower Place East, Tower Place, London, EC3R 5BU

Dress code: Business casual with a touch of red

Cost: Free

On Thursday 9 June from 5.30 – 6.30pm (with in person networking till 8.00pm), the Insurance Cultural Awareness Network (iCAN), in partnership with Convex is delighted to announce our latest hybrid event: Then and Now. Reflections on British Black History featuring, Michael Fuller former Chief Constable of the Kent Police and former Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of the Crown Prosecution Service. 


Join us for this fascinating event, where Michael will share his personal story and insight, highlighting his role in British Black History as the first Black Chief Constable of the Kent Police from 2004 to 2010.

Michael is a former Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of the Crown Prosecution Service. He was responsible for the inspection of the Crown Prosecution Service and Serious Fraud Office, reporting directly to the Attorney General.

He is a former police officer and served as the Chief Constable of Kent Police from January 2004 until March 2010. When he retired, Kent Police was designated by the Police Inspectorate as 1 of 5 most improved police forces within England and Wales.

He was instrumental in setting up the Racial and Violent Crime Task Force and drew up the Metropolitan Police action plan in response to criticism arising from the Macpherson Inquiry. Michael set up and commanded Operation Trident which successfully reduced gun crime in London. He also supervised numerous murder investigations whilst in command of the Met’s West Area Serious Crime Group.

Michael retired from the police in April 2010 after 34 years to take up the position as Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of the Crown Prosecution Service. He is the holder of the Queens Police Medal (QPM) for distinguished police service. Michael qualified as a barrister whilst serving as a chief constable and was called to the Bar at Lincoln’s Inn in July 2007.

Event Details



Date: Thursday, 9 June 2022
Time: 5.30-6.30pm (with in person networking thereafter till 8.00pm)

Location: The Scalpel, Floor 34, 52 Lime Street, EC3M 7AF


Cost: Free



This is a hybrid event:

Join iCAN and LINK for festive drinks and networking on 14th December 2021

The Insurance Cultural Awareness Network (iCAN) and LGBTQ+ Insurance Network (LINK) cordially invite you to raise a glass with them to celebrate the festive season. 

After going through lockdown and the new normal we are excited to meet again in person! 

With the end of another year approaching, iCAN and LINK would like to thank all their members for their support over the last year, and we can’t think of a better way to do that than get together. 

So, join us on 14th December, when there will be plenty of time to eat, drink, network and be merry!

Wine, beer and nibbles will be served starting from 18.00. 

There are limited numbers so make sure to secure your ticket! 

Date: 14th December, 2021

Time: From 18.00

Location: Simmons Bar, 21 Widegate Street, London, England, E1 7HP