The insurance industry is going through big changes. New technology like artificial intelligence, changing customer needs, and tough competition for skilled workers are shaking up the way people work. But simply offering good pay and chances to move up the ladder isn’t enough anymore. Many employees want to feel connected and valued at work.
Jhan D. Doughty, vice president and head of global belonging and engagement at Everest Group, believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) are key to building strong workplaces and successful businesses. With almost 20 years of experience across different sectors—including government, non-profits, and corporate HR—Doughty has seen firsthand how inclusion can change lives.
She began her career helping people with disabilities find jobs and get mental health support. Later, she worked in education, teaching psychology and starting programs that helped students feel included. Over the last 15 years, she has focused on human resources, especially on learning, talent growth, and DE&I work.
Doughty shared that early in her HR career, she saw how offering students paid work, mentoring, and professional development opened doors for many who might not have had the chance otherwise. More than 100 of those students went on to graduate school or began their careers thanks to these programs.
This year, Doughty is supporting the 2025 Dive In Festival, a global event taking place from September 16 to 18. The festival brings together insurance leaders and professionals to talk about how fostering a sense of belonging can help businesses thrive. The theme, "Belonging Builds Tomorrow," focuses on making workplaces where people feel heard and empowered.
Doughty urges leaders to make inclusion part of everything they do, from strategy to daily work. She says it takes ongoing effort, leadership backing, meaningful measures, and a willingness to improve. She encourages everyone to take small steps each day—like chatting with a new coworker, reading about inclusion, or attending a related event. Even these little actions can make a difference.
The Dive In Festival aims to inspire real change by connecting people who want to build more inclusive and welcoming workplaces. For Doughty, success means attendees leave feeling they have learned something new or found a community where they belong.
Anyone interested can join the conversation and learn more by registering at diveinfestival.com. This global gathering promises to shine a spotlight on why belonging isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a crucial advantage for the future of insurance.