On the sunny afternoon of August 17th, 2023, a jubilant crowd gathered at the stunning Beyerskloof venue to commemorate a significant milestone – the 25th birthday celebration of TRA (Thatch Risk Acceptances).
Amidst the picturesque landscapes and bustling camaraderie, guests from various parts of the country came together to celebrate a journey that began in 1998. This event was more than just a celebration; it was a testament to the resilience, innovation, and transformation that TRA has undergone over the years.
The celebratory atmosphere was a true reflection of the appreciation TRA felt towards its clients, partners, and colleagues, who have played an instrumental role in the company’s growth. As the key figure of TRA, Natasja Blok, MD of TRA, expressed her profound gratitude for the unwavering support that had brought them to this day. With an eye to acknowledging the presence of esteemed guests, including representatives from F&I Insure and other industry leaders, she set the stage for a trip down memory lane.
Reflecting on the evolution of TRA, Natasja invited the audience to remember the story of Goldilocks shared during the 20th birthday celebration. However, recognising the need for brevity, she transitioned into a review of the last five years, focusing on the significant milestones that had shaped TRA’s journey.
The year 2019 marked TRA’s participation in the SANS (South African National Standards) 10313 Working Group, a commitment that underscored the company’s dedication to property and people protection against lightning. This involvement led to a nationwide roadshow, which engaged brokers in workshops focusing on the complexities of lightning protection. 2020, dominated by the pandemic, tested the company’s adaptability as remote work became the norm. TRA’s swift transition to remote operations within three days highlighted the strength of its team and commitment to serving clients under challenging circumstances.
Despite the challenges, TRA faced personal losses during this time, a poignant reminder of the human toll of the pandemic. The remembrance of lost colleagues underlined the unity and support that defined the TRA family, which stood strong during times of hardship.
As the years rolled on, 2022 brought another wave of change. F&I Insure’s majority shareholding acquisition of TRA led to a cascade of transformations. From a new TRA Board of Directors to the shift of risks carriers, TRA underwent a profound metamorphosis. The change in branding signalled the company’s expansion beyond its original scope as a thatch underwriter, enabling TRA to provide a wider range of specialist insurance solutions.
These changes were not just cosmetic – they signified a broader vision for TRA’s future. The partnership with F&I Insure opened doors to countless opportunities and products, allowing TRA to extend its expertise to standard constructions and diverse commercial risks. This expansion enabled the company to diversify its offerings while maintaining its commitment to excellent customer service.
TRA is very keen to grow its Commercial book and balance it with more standard types of risks.
The various products that are available immediately includes General Commercial, Hospitality, Guesthouses, Sectional Title, and Motor Fleets. TRA is also open to taking a co-insurance line where brokers are short of capacity and need to fill a slip.
The journey of TRA’s transformation would not have been possible without its dedicated team. Natasja highlighted the exceptional efforts of key team members who weathered the challenges and embraced the changes. The team’s resilience was reminiscent of the ant colony in the animated film “A Bug’s Life,” symbolising unity and strength in the face of adversity.
Concluding the celebration, Natasja expressed gratitude to all attendees, emphasising the essential role brokers played in TRA’s success. The celebration was more than a gathering; it was a tribute to the partnerships, growth, and transformations that have defined TRA’s journey over 25 remarkable years.
As the celebration came to an end, TRA looked toward the future with excitement, ready to embrace new opportunities, strengthen relationships, and continue its legacy as a “Totally Ridiculously Amazing” insurance provider.