South Africa started 2021 with a wave. The second COVID-19 wave was upon us as we reluctantly trek into the new year.
Let's face it – the past two years were tough on us as South Africans. I can write a whole book about the privations we faced this year as a country, globally and individually, but why would I? I would rather take this opportunity to reminisce on all the good that came out of 2021.
As the Covid infections reached a steady decline, IIWC seized the opportunity to host our Annual Golf Day on the 23rd of April 2021, proving to be a huge success! There was no stopping us as our first Under 35's Nibble and Network took place on the 29th of April 2021. Within COVID-19 protocols we were able to network with our fellow colleagues and make some connections after a long period of absence.
Our social freedom was short-lived as the Third Wave was upon us in June. This did not stop us! We have taken this time to enhance virtual interaction with our members and improve our creativity in how we embrace this new norm.
In July we ran a Virtual Raffle draw, with some luckily participants winning awesome gifts from our sponsors, and ultimately raising R 11 250 for Mdzanande Animal Clinic.
The pandemic did not halt any opportunity to learn as our Eduction Team hosted over 9 Edu-Webinars on relevant topics presented by Industry Professionals.
Our virtual presence estimated at 150 delegates per webinar with topics such as Unpacking Financial Lines Insurance for Non-Insurance Specialist, Agri, The Effects of Covid on the Trade Credit,
Guarantee & Hospitality Sectors + Cyber Exposures within the Hospitality sector Business Interruption and SASRIA.
2021 saw many firsts, but in particular, IICW was very proud to launch our Pilot RISE Mentorship Program on the 14th May 2021 where nine eager Mentees were paired with nine salted Mentors. The program proved to be beneficial for not only the Mentees but the Mentors as well.
The 2021 Insurance Apprentice winner was announced in April and the title was taken by our very own Fiona Fitzpatric. Here is a link to the Interview we had with Fiona after she brought the title home to the Western Cape: https://www.iiwc.co.za/post/the-insurance-apprentice-winner-is
The IIWC generously donated more than R 400 000 to Charities which includes Saartjie Baartman Centre, Mdzanande Animal Clinic Food Forward SA, and Percy Bartley House this year. None of this would have been possible without our Sponsors and we would like to thank each and every one of you for your support, enabling us to make a success and reach so many lives.
To conclude: The only constant is change! We have adapted, improvised, and improved. As a council, we have worked together to make this an amazing and noteworthy year. We are excited to see what 2022 will bring!