Championing inclusion and representation in insurance

Championing inclusion and representation in insurance | Insurance Business Canada

Insurance News

Championing inclusion and representation in insurance

How one award winner is creating space for more diverse voices in the industry

Insurance News

By
Mika Pangilinan

Desmond Marryshow is among the many voices championing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the insurance industry.

As a commercial underwriter at Chubb Canada, the 34-year-old has helped mentor junior colleagues and foster a work environment that nurtures a sense of belonging.

Named one of Insurance Business Canada’s Top 50 Rising Stars for 2023, Marryshow said he likes to lead by example and open up about his own experiences to allow his peers to feel that they are in a safe and inclusive space.

“Speaking up and being visible has helped many people, and that’s what I want to continue to do,” he said. “The impact I like to see is when others shine, can speak their mind and feel comfortable.”

The individuals who nominated Marryshow for the Top 50 Rising Star list cited this dedication to empowering young professionals in the industry.

“He is a phenomenal individual who goes out of his way to mentor insurance professionals, providing myself and others countless hours of guidance on our personal and professional lives,” one nominator said.

Other nominators praised Marryshow for his work helping empower Black insurance professionals and his active participation in 2SLGBTQ+ events.

Marryshow has been appointed DE&I director with the Ontario Risk and Insurance Management Society. He is also an active member of the Chubb Pride Canada and the Canadian Association of Black Insurance Professionals.

Marryshow said it’s crucial that he is visible and can “showcase our industry and let people know there is a place here for them.”

Since joining the industry in 2017, Marryshow has achieved several milestones, including being a junior board member of the Multicultural (Re)Insurance Association (MRIA) and a Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) and Canadian Risk Management (CRM) holder.