084: Your reputation travels faster than you do, so how do you protect it? with Kelly Nwankwo

Summary In this episode, Sandra speaks with Kelly Nwankwo about belonging, curiosity, and the power of reputation in building a meaningful career. Kelly reflects on her twists and turns throughout her career, which were a combination of reflection, plan and openness to try. Her journey through broking, into consulting, and back to the market is a testimonial of how our careers can take unexpected turns. Through these shifts, Kelly learned how reputation, relationships, and self-awareness shape long-term success. Together, Sandra and Kelly discuss personal brand and authenticity, exploring how to adapt to new environments without losing yourself. Kelly describes authenticity as something you can “dial up or down,” depending on context, but never perform. She also explains how curiosity and courage open new doors and how showing up consistently builds trust and visibility. Kelly highlights networks like LTL, ACIN (now known as Equity), and iCAN, which gave her both support and lifelong friendships. She believes that belonging is what keeps people in the industry and that inclusion helps people thrive once they arrive. She also shares her view that ambition should be tied to learning, not titles, and looks ahead to a more diverse, technology-driven future for insurance. Takeaways Career paths evolve through curiosity and courage Your reputation travels faster than you do, protect it A strong personal brand is built through visibility, consistency and authenticity Mentors and peers shape how you grow and lead Professional networks build belonging and confidence Managers can nurture ambition by creating space for learning Ambition tied to learning drives sustainable growth AI will reshape work, but human connection will always matter Fulfilment comes from purpose, progress, and the people around you Diversity in the workplace enhances the overall experience and retention Community and friendships formed through networking can be lifelong Diversity brings people in, but inclusion keeps them About the guest Connect with Kelly Nwankwo on LinkedIn. About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn. Sign up to ‘Coffee with Sandra’ to stay up to date with 100 Women in Insurance. Join ‘The Pink Book’ Collective, a private LinkedIn group connecting women in insurance with mentors, speaking opportunities, and community. Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.