Dive In, the insurance industry's longstanding festival promoting diversity and inclusion, kicked off on Tuesday, Sept. 21 and continues through Thursday, Sept. 23. Insurance agents, brokers, and industry leaders are joining both virtual and physical events in more than 40 countries.

The Dive In festival is a global movement to support the development of inclusive workplace cultures in the insurance sector. Established in 2015, it is now one of the largest diversity and inclusion events in the world. This year's theme of active allyship asks festival attendees to turn their commitments into actions to support those from underrepresented groups and create inclusive environments for all.

When asked what topics should be tackled as a priority in insurance, the No. 1 response was mental health, with 67% of respondents identifying it as the top priority. Forty five percent identified gender equality as a topic that should be tackled, and 42% said racial inclusion.

“Following an extremely challenging 18 months, it is unsurprising that mental health has been pushed firmly up the agenda across all regions of the world," said Jason Groves, chair of Dive In and global director of media relations at Marsh. “The results of the survey represent a rallying call for organizations to put in place measures to support colleagues from all backgrounds and circumstances, especially as they begin returning to the office. With over 125 events covering almost every aspect of diversity and inclusion, and 15 alone on mental health, we will have a range of assets and practical tips to help individuals and organizations to do just this."

Renowned confirmed speakers for this year's festival include former Prime Minister of Denmark, Helle Thorning-Schmidt, who will discuss her experience of active allyship throughout her career. In the UK, multi-award-winning director, writer, actor and transgender activist Jake Graf will talk about LGBT+ parenting and presenter, actress and disability activist Samantha Renke will discuss how to become more disability confident. In Jordan, Palestinian film director Najwa Najjar will discuss her journey in becoming a successful director in a male-dominated industry.

 “Dive In has grown far beyond its roots to become a global diversity and inclusion movement," said Dominic Christian, chair of Inclusion@Lloyd's and global chairman of reinsurance solutions at Aon UK. “Now in its seventh year, it's incredible to see that the festival is still gaining new audiences across the world, facilitated by the hybrid festival format. We are delighted to welcome a string of high-profile speakers who will help us deliver our message and drive this year's theme of active allyship."

An array of Global Festival Partners are once again supporting this year's festival, including: AIG, Aon, Arch, Aviva, AXA, AXIS, Chubb, CNA, DLA Piper, Dual, Gallagher, Guy Carpenter, Howden, Kennedys, Liberty Mutual, Lloyd's, Markel, Marsh, MS Amlin, RenaissanceRe, RMS, Tokio Marine Kiln, Travelers and Willis Towers Watson.

Full details about events and speakers are available on the Dive In website and later to rewatch on the Videoflex platform.

To register for Dive In 2021 events, and for more information on previous festivals, visit the Dive In Festival website.