Hi, I’m Shani. Black History Month gives me the opportunity to reflect on my journey, the challenges, the celebrations, and what Black excellence means in my life and at Gallagher Bassett. I’m sharing my experience here in hopes that it contributes something meaningful to the conversation.
What Black Excellence Means to Me
When I think about Black excellence, I think about the achievements and the celebration of the amazing things people in the Black community have done. It’s about showing that people of African descent can do and excel in anything, insurance, education, social justice, anything. There’s nothing we can’t do.
But it’s not only about personal success. To me, it represents resilience, empowerment, and breaking through many barriers. It’s about pride, identity, and unity within the Black community, but also in all communities. It’s about challenging stereotypes and advocating for equity and inclusion for everyone, not just for us.
How I Show Up as My Full Self at Gallagher Bassett
I try to show up as my full self by focusing on three things: being authentic, embracing diversity, and building relationships.
I believe in being honest about my feelings and values. When you’re authentic, people can tell, and it helps build trust and real connection.
I also think it’s important to celebrate our different backgrounds, experiences, and skills within Gallagher Bassett.
And building relationships is probably the most important part. I take time to connect with people who may not share my background. Strong relationships create a supportive environment where everyone feels like they can be themselves.
When I Felt Truly Supported at Gallagher Bassett
I’ve felt supported many times in my career here. It started with leadership, especially Vilma Palma-Blackmon. From the first day I walked into Gallagher Bassett, she set the tone. She’s always been a champion of my career, saw potential in me, and believed in me even when I didn’t see it in myself. I’m grateful that our paths crossed.
Support also came from mentors and allies who advocated for me when I wasn’t in the room.
But the most impactful moment was when my mom had a stroke. It completely changed my family dynamic. Gallagher Bassett’s flexibility and family-first approach meant everything to me. It reinforced how grateful I was to work for a company like this. Now that I’m in a leadership role, I try to pay it forward, knowing support starts with the leader’s vision.
What Makes Me Feel Seen and Valued at Gallagher Bassett
Feeling seen and valued starts with open communication. When feedback is encouraged, and there’s a safe space to share ideas, it builds belonging. I think Irina Simpson has helped create that, even through Viva Engage. It’s great to see people share, and then see leadership respond.
Opportunities for growth also matter. When a company invests in your development and your future, it means a lot.
And work-life balance is important too. We’re still working on this, but respecting personal time shows care for the whole person, not just the employee.
Why Representation Matters to Me
Representation matters because when you include diverse voices and experiences, it drives innovation and brings creative solutions from all backgrounds. It also challenges stereotypes and breaks down barriers.
Representation helps people from underrepresented backgrounds see themselves in different roles. It inspires future generations to pursue careers in insurance and other fields.
I’ve seen a lot of progress at Gallagher Bassett, especially in the internship program. When I first arrived, it didn’t seem as diverse as it is now. The transformation has filled my heart with pride. When I look at social media and see the diverse backgrounds in various roles and among interns, it’s inspiring.
As I look back on my career, I hope the work I’ve done and the stereotypes I’ve helped break down will create opportunities for others to have a seat at the table. Representation is vital for us and for the work we do for clients. They want to see diversity too.
How We Keep This Conversation Going Beyond February
I think we need to continue building programs that support diversity and inclusion. Gallagher Bassett already does this through their engagement and their work with historically Black universities and community colleges. That’s where it starts, creating a pipeline for people to come into the insurance space.
We should also keep championing diversity by helping people with different backgrounds grow in the organization, including in leadership roles.
And we can keep learning from different cultures. You can attend events, support initiatives, or educate yourself about African descent and the community. If diversity is missing in your day-to-day, then it’s time to make a change.
My View on Diversity in Everyday Life
For me, diversity is a way of life. My home and my kids’ friends are diverse. I welcome everyone. It’s not a talking point, it’s who I am. And I think that’s something we should all strive for year-round, not just during this one month.
Life experiences change your perspective. Challenges make you think differently about others and other cultures. I always say, “My day today, your day tomorrow.” You never know what life will bring. We have to keep an open heart.
And honestly, it starts young. If I kept my children in a box, they’d think that’s all they need to see. But the world is full of people with different backgrounds who have something to offer. I don’t want anyone to be close-minded to that.
