Nyasha Mareya, the Group CEO of LMCI, has been an influential leader in the insurance sector, driving significant strides towards gender equality and empowerment.
In this exclusive interview, she shares her leadership journey, her commitment to promoting gender equality, and her vision for a more inclusive and progressive insurance industry.
Nyasha’s Leadership Journey: From Vision to Reality
Nyasha’s journey as a leader began with a powerful vision to create a different workspace and build something in the professional services space that would leave a lasting legacy for future generations. She was fortunate to share this vision with her late husband, Lawrence Mareya, whose vast experience in the insurance industry complemented her entrepreneurial spirit. Together, they founded LMCI, identifying and filling a crucial gap in the market during Zimbabwe’s post-independence brain drain.
Nyasha’s leadership journey was shaped by the process of building LMCI from the ground up. They started with only themselves, performing every task necessary to establish the business. This experience taught Nyasha the value of every employee at LMCI and their contributions, no matter how small. As she navigated the challenges of growing a business, Nyasha understood that true leadership extended beyond a hierarchical position; it involved continuous learning and adaptation to the ever-changing business landscape.
Championing Gender Equality: Nyasha’s Vision
For Nyasha, gender equality means addressing gender-based inequalities and injustices. It begins with recognising the differences between genders and identifying the areas where discrimination creates disadvantages. She firmly believes in rewarding individuals based on their capabilities and abilities, rather than their gender. Nyasha is committed to ensuring that LMCI’s services cater to vulnerable communities, including women who often face limited access to resources and opportunities.
As a woman in a male-dominated sector, Nyasha acknowledges the challenges women face in accessing equal opportunities. Her goal is to create an environment that empowers women to enter and excel in the insurance industry. She emphasises that representation alone is not enough; women must be equipped with the knowledge and understanding of gender equality issues to bring about meaningful change.
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Nyasha’s Role in Achieving Gender Equality
Nyasha understands that promoting gender equality benefits everyone. Societies with more equitable gender dynamics experience less conflict and greater productivity. To achieve this, Nyasha advocates for the use of a gender lens to identify and address disadvantages faced by specific genders. Her approach is not about favouring one gender over another but ensuring equal opportunities for all.
Addressing Gender Equality in the Insurance Sector
While acknowledging the efforts made by some entities to promote gender equality, Nyasha believes there is still much to be done within the insurance sector. The industry can benefit from a greater number of women in leadership positions and the development of products that address women’s vulnerabilities. However, representation alone will not bring about meaningful change; the sector must adopt a holistic approach and implement gender-conscious strategies in all aspects of its operations, from product development to employment practices.
Nyasha’s Vision for the Future
Nyasha’s vision for the future includes continuous learning and growth as a leader. She emphasises the importance of collaboration with industry leaders to advocate for gender equality and diversity in the insurance sector. By engaging in various forums and discussions, she aims to create a more inclusive and progressive industry.
Setting a powerful example
Nyasha Mareya’s leadership journey and commitment to gender equality exemplify the positive impact leaders can have on promoting inclusivity and empowerment in the workplace. As the CEO of LMCI, Nyasha continues to lead by example, championing gender equality and creating a supportive environment where everyone’s potential is recognized and nurtured.
Her vision for the future holds promise for a more equitable and prosperous insurance sector, setting a powerful example for leaders in all industries to follow.