Mentorship & empowerment: intentional investment in women drives industry growth
Dr. Lisa Du Plessis, Deputy CEO, Sapphire Risk Transfer
“When we uplift others, we gain stronger teams, broader perspectives and more innovative thinking.”
The Africa Insurance Magazine in honor of the 2026 international women’s month caught up with the deputy chief executive officer at Sapphire Risk Transfer, Dr. Lisa Du Plessis to profile and celebrate her achievements as a phenomenal female executive in the insurance industry. The conversation focused on how she relates to the 2026 international women’s month theme and her advice to other female executives and the next generation of leaders.
Give to gain: it’s all about intentionally investing in others
“For me Give to Gain, the 2026 international women’s month theme, means that progress happens when leaders intentionally invest in others. Giving mentorship, sharing knowledge and intentionally creating opportunities – especially for women – strengthens both companies and our industry. When we uplift others, we gain stronger teams, broader perspectives and more innovative thinking. By giving time, and support today, we gain a more resilient, inclusive and sustainable insurance industry for Africa tomorrow.”
To truly support women in thriving and flourishing at the workplace, Dr. Lisa calls on insurance organizations in Africa and globally to create sanity islands through inclusive and supportive working environments.
“By building inclusive and supportive environments. This includes fostering psychological safety so women can contribute confidently, offering flexible work structures, and establishing mentorship and sponsorship programs which open leadership positions. Trans-parent promotion criteria and access to strategic project are essential. When companies intentionally support women’s growth and well-being, they gain stronger leadership, better decision-making and more resilient teams- benefiting both the company and the industry,” she says.
In an ever evolving insurance landscape, relevant capabilities are crucial in leading regenerative change in the African insurance industry. But the critical question remains, what skills should women leaders amplify to manifest and inspire and regenerative change?
“Women leaders should amplify systems thinking, courageous leadership, collaboration, and emotional intelligence. Strong system thinking enables leaders to see the long-term impact across people, business and society. Courage allows them to challenge outdated norms and drive transformation. Collaboration and influence help mobilize diverse teams to solve complex problems, while empathy builds trust and resilient companies. Combined with clear strategic vision, these capabilities enable women leaders to create sustainable, inclusive progress that benefits both companies and communities,” says Dr. Lisa.
As a beacon of inspiration to young women in the industry Dr. Lisa founds immense fulfillment in empowering the next generation of leaders through confidence building, sharing knowledge and opportunities.
“I focus on creating opportunities, sharing knowledge and building confidence in the next generation of women leaders. I mentor and sponsor emerging talent, I encourage women to take on challenging rolls and I advocate for their visibility in leadership conversations. I also prioritise sharing lessons from my own journey, both successes and setbacks to show what’s possible.”
Words of wisdom…
“We should all believe in our voices and the value we bring. We should be curious, keep learning and don’t be afraid to take a chance, get out of your comfort zone. Surround yourself with people who support and challenge you. Leadership is not about having all the answers.”
