Empowering women is essential for any society to progress and thrive. The gender gap and inequality have been a significant problem in Sri Lanka, and many women still face discrimination and bias in various aspects of their lives. However, Jeevani Kariyawasam, the CEO of People’s Insurance PLC, is leading the charge towards promoting gender equality and equal opportunities in the workplace. In a conversation, Jeevani shares her insights on leading People’s Insurance PLC and the importance of creating a value-based culture.
Jeevani has been associated with the insurance industry in Sri Lanka for over 25 years, and she has climbed the ladder from a management trainee to the CEO of People’s Insurance PLC. As a strong advocate for gender equality, she believes in speaking up against discrimination and bias, mentoring and supporting her team members, and surrounding herself with supportive and encouraging people. When asked about the culture at People’s Insurance Jeevani answered “I believe as an organisation we have always encouraged gender diversity. Our recruitment policies are based on non-discrimination and will identify the person with the required qualification and experience.” Jeevani ensures that gender-based discrimination is not tolerated within the organisation and encourages all employees, regardless of their gender, to voice their opinions and share their ideas and suggestions through an open-door and inclusive culture.
Her professional career in Insurance started in 1996 at National Insurance Corporation as a management trainee and she then rose through the ranks between three leading insurance providers in Sri Lanka gaining quite an astounding reputation. She was a member of the founding group of People’s Insurance PLC in the capacity of Head of Operations in 2009. Having been associated with the Insurance Industry in Sri Lanka for over 25 years and armed with a plethora of experience she assumed her role as the CEO of People’s Insurance PLC in 2022 and she remarks that it has been a delight thus far.
People’s Insurance PLC has always encouraged gender diversity, and their recruitment policies are based on non-discrimination. Across their senior and middle management teams, there is a fair representation of women who are actively engaged in the decision-making process and in shaping the strategic direction of the company. People’s Insurance PLC has also established mentorship programs that connect women at different levels of seniority within the organisation, coaching programs that help women build specific skills, and networking opportunities that allow women to connect with each other, share their experiences, exchange ideas, and build relationships.
However, Jeevani expresses that there are institutional and societal changes that need to be made for women to be empowered on a broader scale. Discrimination based on gender must be eliminated, be it within the society or at institutional level. Women must have equal access to education and training opportunities, including vocational and technical training, to ensure that they have the skills and knowledge needed to effectively contribute to nation-building and development efforts. Addressing the gender pay gap, increasing access to quality childcare, and promoting flexible work arrangements are all crucial elements in addressing this issue. Challenging traditional gender norms and stereotypes and promoting policies that support women’s leadership development is a must. Women must be given equal opportunities to attain leadership roles in politics, business, and other areas of society. Violence against women is another area that remains largely unaddressed. This must be addressed through policies and programs that promote prevention, protection, and support for survivors.
Jeevani believes that men also play a crucial role in empowering women. Men must consistently discourage traditional gender stereotypes and promote gender equality by challenging harmful attitudes and behaviours that encourage gender-based discrimination and bias. They can actively listen to women’s perspectives and amplify their voices by sharing their ideas, perspectives, and experiences with others. Promoting women’s work and achievements, giving credit where it is due, and actively seeking out opportunities to support and elevate women’s voices are some of the areas they can support. She also has a lot of gratitude for the amazing support systems she has, both in her personal life, through her husband and son, who has been her source of inspiration and motivation as well as in a professional capacity by all professionals who have worked tirelessly with her to ensure that she adds value to all stakeholders alike.
In conclusion, female empowerment is essential for building a more equitable and just society. It is heartening to see organisations like People’s Insurance PLC taking active steps towards promoting gender equality and empowering women in the workplace. By working together and taking action, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society where women can reach their full potential.