The IIG Roots and Wings Programme Mix and Mingle Event was more than just a networking gathering. It was a celebration of mentorship, personal growth, and the meaningful connections that are helping to shape the future of South Africa’s insurance industry.
Hosted at the offices of Clyde & Co, our generous venue sponsor, the event brought together mentors, mentees, programme leaders, and industry professionals for a morning filled with inspiring conversations, shared experiences, and plenty of memorable moments.
From the moment guests arrived, there was a sense of excitement and camaraderie in the air. The event highlighted the core purpose of the Roots and Wings Programme: empowering emerging industry professionals through mentorship, guidance, and the sharing of knowledge and experience.
A highlight of the morning was hearing directly from mentees about their journeys within the programme. Sasha-Lee Beerwinkel (Garrun Group), Bongani Masango (Oneplan Insurance), and Noxolo Dube (Mukoma Financial Services) shared honest and heartfelt reflections on how the programme has influenced their professional development. Their stories demonstrated the value of having access to experienced industry leaders who can offer support, guidance, and encouragement at pivotal stages of a career.
Equally inspiring were the perspectives shared by mentors Kaizer Sigasa (iWYZE), Grant Carstensen (Arrow Underwriting), and Keshni Athimoolam (ABSA). While each mentor brought a unique perspective, a common theme emerged: mentorship is a mutually rewarding experience. They spoke about the privilege of guiding emerging talent while also gaining fresh insights, new perspectives, and invaluable learning experiences from their mentees.
The event also featured motivational messages from our programme facilitators who encouraged attendees to embrace continuous learning, nurture professional relationships, and remain committed to their personal growth journeys.
Their insights served as a powerful reminder that success is rarely achieved alone and that strong support networks are often the foundation of long-term career development.
Adding a touch of fun to the event was the ever-popular Selfie Picture Competition. Participants captured and shared snapshots of their mentorship journeys in the weeks leading up to the event, showcasing the relationships and experiences built through the programme.
Congratulations to the winning pairs:
Natasha Osman (ABSA) & Anele Nombanda (Santam)
Jacques Stahl (Bryte) & Nceba Mtungwa (Santam)
Shari Nagel (O’Keeffe and Swarts) & Puseletso Mphela (Santam)
Jonathan Crisp (Hollard) & Obakeng Dlamini (Aon Re)
Simba Mukonzo (Mukfin) & Simon Mthembu (HDI)
A special thank you to Discovery Insure for sponsoring the prizes and helping make the competition such an enjoyable part of the event.
Beyond the formal programme, the Mix and Mingle created valuable opportunities for attendees to strengthen existing relationships and build new connections across the industry. Conversations flowed naturally as participants exchanged ideas, shared career experiences, and explored future opportunities in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
The Roots and Wings Programme continues to demonstrate the power of mentorship in developing talent, building confidence, and strengthening the insurance community. The Mix and Mingle Event was a fitting celebration of the progress made so far and a reminder that when knowledge, experience, and ambition come together, the possibilities for growth are limitless.
As the programme continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: the future of the industry is in good hands, supported by a network of professionals committed to helping one another learn, grow, and thrive.
Co-Opt: Marketing – Insurance Institute of Gauteng
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