This year, we are dedicated to amplifying the voices of the incredible women in our organization. Through personal stories and insights, we celebrate their achievements, aspirations, and the unique perspectives they bring to our industry. Enjoy the Reading!

Interview with Melinda Keller:

  1. What’s your vision for the future of women in the workplace, and how can we use women’s strengths to support each other?
    My vision for the near future is a workplace where factors like gender, age, background, having children or not, etc., no longer matter or influence how people are treated. It should be all about performance and the social skills needed to fit into a job and company. Additionally, it’s important that men respect and support their partner’s choice, whether they decide to return to work or focus on raising the children, as long as it’s financially feasible, without pressuring them one way or the other. Also, we as women should support each other rather than seeing life as a big competition. This would make life a lot easier and less stressful.

  2. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to young women starting in insurance?
    I’ve learned that the insurance industry has traditionally been male-dominated. However, in our company, we actually have more female employees than male. My general advice would be: Focus on yourself and your accomplishments, build meaningful connections, and don’t worry too much about the opinions of those who don’t wish you well.

  3. If you could have dinner with any inspiring woman, past or present, who would it be?
    Vera Birkenbihl. She was a German author and expert in communication and learning, known for her creative approaches to learning methods, language, and personal development. I’d love to have had dinner with her because of her interesting views on how men and women communicate differently. She believed understanding these differences could really improve how we relate to each other. Her practical insights into gender dynamics, combined with her engaging style, would have made for a fascinating and inspiring conversation.

  4. What’s an achievement—big or small—you’re proud of?
    Besides professional achievements, one thing that stands out is my journey into figure skating. I took it up as a hobby about 1.5 years ago at the age of 34 and am now working on improving my steps and turns during skate camp workshops. Skating has been a passion of mine since childhood, though I never had the opportunity to start earlier. Therefore, I am proud of myself for still having the courage to start.

  5. What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to try?
    I've always wanted to do mountain trekking in the Alps or Dolomites and climb a glacier. Let's see if I can cross that off my bucket list this year.

  6. What’s your “superpower”?
    A lot of people have told me that I have a stunning smile. So maybe this is a superpower?! What certainly is: I also have an excellent memory for names!

  7. What’s the one thing that always makes you smile?
    This is hard to say, as there are many things. Music for sure, and being in nature on a walk or hike.

  8. What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
    Growing up in Western Germany, I only learned about International Women's Day when it was established as a public holiday in Berlin. For me, it is important that we don’t create a divide between genders. My hope is that one day, everyone will be free to choose whichever lifestyle or way of life they prefer while still maintaining good traditions.

Interview with Jenny-Annett Kubina:

  1. What’s your vision for the future of women in the workplace, and how can we use women’s strengths to support each other?
    My vision for the future is equal opportunities and representation for women: ensuring equal access to leadership roles, mentorship, and career advancement opportunities. By leveraging our strengths—collaboration, resilience, and empathy—we can uplift and support each other, creating an inclusive and empowering work environment.

  2. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to young women starting in insurance?
    My advice for young women is to believe in yourself and surround yourself with positive and inspiring people. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, ask questions, and never stop learning. Confidence and continuous development are key to success.

  3. What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
    International Women’s Day is about celebrating the incredible achievements, resilience, and strength of women around the world while also recognizing the ongoing journey toward gender equality. It’s a moment to reflect, inspire, and take action toward a more inclusive future.

Interview with Katrin Ritter:

  1. If you could have dinner with any inspiring woman, past or present, who would it be? –Michelle Obama

  2. What’s an achievement—big or small—you’re proud of? – That I stopped smoking six years ago

  3. What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to try? – Emigrating to New Zealand to open a bed & breakfast there

  4. What’s your “superpower”? – Being a working mum

  5. What’s one thing that always makes you smile? – My little daughter

  6. What does International Women’s Day mean to you? – Honestly, not that much. I would prefer it if women were appreciated every day of the year and not just once.