Trailblazer
Chisom is lifting others as she climbs. Want to join her?
If you’re from an underrepresented group, insurance might not seem like an obvious choice. But if you want a diverse career that’s packed with possibility, maybe it’s time to take another look.
So what’s it like to build a successful career in insurance when you don’t fit the mould? We asked Chisom Kane, a Programme Director in Health & Benefits to tell us about her journey.
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I had to navigate an entirely new environment professionally – mentors and sponsors helped me break through barriers.
When Chisom moved to the UK from Nigeria as a young professional, she found herself in an unfamiliar professional world.
With no roadmap, she had to find her own way.
And that’s where mentorship came in—support that she says was pivotal in helping her find success in a very different working culture.
By mentoring and supporting the next generation, trailblazers like Chisom are helping to shape a more diverse and inclusive future for our industry.
Creating possibility
Today, Chisom is paying it forward by mentoring others.
She explains the impact diverse leaders and mentors can have with the story of one of her mentees who is also from an immigrant background.
“[My mentee] had never seen someone who looked like her in a leadership role until she met me,” Chisom said.
Seeing her mentee grow in confidence, advance in her career, and later mentor others is proof of the positive ripple effect that this kind of support creates.
And it’s not only mentees who benefit—it’s everyone.
“Supporting the next generation of talent not only strengthens our organisation, but
also creates a culture of continuous learning and development,” she said.
Making a difference
At Howden, Chisom has found a place where she can lead with purpose and be a part of something bigger.
In 2024, she was shortlisted for the Howden People’s Leader Award, recognising her extraordinary work in leadership and talent development.
“[The business] has supported my mission by fostering an environment where conversations around diversity, equity and inclusion are not just welcomed, but actioned,” she said.
That support has empowered her to mentor more, challenge more, and shape a culture where everyone has the chance to grow.
Your journey begins here
Whether you’re taking the first step, stepping back into work or looking for something that feels more meaningful, there’s a place for you in insurance.
At Howden, you’ll be supported to grow, encouraged to connect—and will have access to mentoring initiatives that help you thrive.
