Inspirational Women – Shakeela Khanom, Responsible Business Assistant at Beazley
How did you get to where you are today?
After graduating from the University of Greenwich, I spent two years applying for jobs without much success. By chance a friend mentioned the Eagles programme, an internship scheme offered to graduates in London. I immediately applied, and after passing a series of tests and interviews, I was given the life-changing opportunity to intern at Beazley. During my internship, I learned about the incredible world of insurance and at the end was offered a permanent role at Beazley. I accepted the job and have been here ever since.
What barriers do women face in particular along the career path you’ve chosen?
I work in an industry which traditionally used to be very male dominated. Women were not allowed in the Lloyd’s underwriting room until 1972 so as an industry we have previously been somewhat behind and it takes time for those barriers to be broken down. However I think we are getting so much better as an industry. You only have to look at things like the Lloyd’s Dive In festival to see how the market is embracing diversity.
How/have you been able to challenge these barriers?
I’m very lucky to work for an organisation that focuses strongly on inclusivity, so these barriers don’t exist for me as much as they might for others. I spent some time reverse mentoring our CEO which I hope gave him an insight to what it is like for a young Muslim woman in his organisation, although even before this I have always felt supported by my colleagues. Part of my role at Beazley involves leading on the Brokerage summer internship programme which offers opportunities for local young people to work in the city. All of this helps show people in our business and the wider insurance market those individuals from diverse backgrounds who ordinarily normally have the opportunity to work in the city can make an amazing contribution to our business.
What does Women’s Day mean to you and why is it important?
Whether it’s the struggle for equal pay, the right to an education or even the right to wear a hijab, this day is a great chance to remember and celebrate the people whose struggles have helped us get so far.
