UGBS Insurance Students Hold Brunch Meeting with 2014 Alumni Group
The University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) Insurance Students Association (ISA) held a brunch meeting with mentors, dubbed "Brunch Meeting with Mentors (ISA 2014): A Decade On." The event brought together insurance students and industry professionals to share insight into the insurance industry.
Mr. Edward Kwadwo Owusu, CEO of Light Insurance Solutions Ltd, advised students to be confident, take risks, and develop good customer service skills. "To succeed in this field, you must be trustworthy and a problem solver. What will help you keep your business is the relationship," he noted. He further encouraged students to cultivate good ethics towards work since it’s a major factor for promotion and seek mentors who can coach them on the path they have chosen.
Ms. Hannah Ama Koomson, Head of Marketing at Brisk Management Limited, also addressed the group. She is a former secretary for BHJCR during her time at the University of Ghana Business School, ten years ago. Encouraging the audience to take initiative, she advised them not to wait for tasks to be delegated. She informed them about beneficial training and conferences that could enhance their success. Emphasising the importance of product knowledge, she suggested starting as a marketer, as it provides valuable experience for career advancement. "Insurance is a law, so understanding the products is crucial for sales," she explained.
Ms. Koomson encouraged the audience to write articles on insurance to demonstrate their expertise and enhance their marketability. According to her, "If you brand yourself well, you will always be recommended," Additionally, she highlighted the value of soft skills, adaptability, and building relationships. "Keep your friends, don't be an island, and they can help you in the field," she said, sharing her personal experience. "My first clients were my friends, and I was able to meet my target."
Mr. Joel Lartey Asirifi, Manager of Technical Operations at Prime Insurance Company Ltd, had a presentation on, “The Past, the Now and the Future”. He is also a former president of the UGBS Insurance Students Association. He spoke of the importance of learning, gaining experience, and personal development. "Learn and gain experience from wherever you get to work. Do not use pride from your past to block your future. We all do not know what the future holds, but if you don't work hard towards it, it may not end well for you," he concluded.
Other speakers present included Mr. Benjamin Kwamena Arthur, Head of Intermediary Market Unit at Prime Insurance, Head Office, Mr. Alswell Asiedu, ACII, Head of Market Unit at Prime Insurance, and Mr. Bernard Kyin-Arkoh, Star Assurance, Madina Branch Head.
The Patron of ISA, Dr. Godfred Amewu, presented a citation of honour to the 2014 ISA year group for their continuous support in nurturing continuing students. "We appreciate your contributions to the growth of the insurance industry and your support to the students," he said. The event concluded with a question-and-answer session, where the speakers addressed students' concerns.