Meet Shashi Silver, member of Women at Kennedys APAC

We recently spoke to Shashi who is a part of the Women at Kennedys APAC network about what she would like to see from the network in the next few years and the importance of women supporting each other in their careers.

What key message would you like everyone to remember from this year’s International Women’s Day?

There is strength in solidarity. If you encounter something that is unfair and based on gender, voice your opinion. You have a valuable perspective that can make a difference.

What is your personal involvement with the Women at Kennedys network?

I am proud to be a member of the Women at Kennedys network in Australia. We work to promote the achievements and successes of women from all walks of life. Our regular catch-ups provide an open forum for the sharing of ideas, and discussion regarding opportunities for networking within the industry.

As a leader in your field, what do you think are some of the most exciting opportunities for women in the legal and insurance industries in the coming years?

With the increasing number of women in the legal and insurance industry, workplaces are evolving to cater to women’s needs. There has, for example, been a momentous shift in workplaces, including Kennedys, offering generous paid parental leave schemes, by extending periods of paid leave, and with this offering available to both parents. Additional paid leave is being offered for pregnancy loss and fertility treatment. In the post-covid era, flexible working arrangements are now the norm, rather than the exception. These policies are helping to remove the gender pay gap and are helping women stay in paid employment. With the notable gender imbalance in leadership roles, with policies such as these, now is an opportune time for women to rise to senior positions within these industries.

What message would you like to send to women who are just starting their careers?

Embrace the opportunities you are given. If you are appointed to a leadership role, rise to the occasion, and know you were chosen for that role, because that is where you are supposed to be.

How important is it for women to support each other in their careers, especially in fields like law and insurance?

Extremely. Despite tremendous improvements within the legal and insurance industries in the last decade, women continue to face systemic challenges. These include for example, balancing the demanding nature of work with family responsibilities, and gender bias implicit in hiring and promotions. By building strong connections and relationships, women can create a supportive network that opens doors to new opportunities and collaborations. It may also assist in finding an all-important mentor or sponsor, who will be invaluable in guiding your career.

Why did you join the women at Kennedys network?

I wanted to be part of a close-knit network where I could make longstanding connections, based on a shared interest of promoting women. I believe this to be particularly important, in circumstances where I am navigating how to be a new mother, while rising to the challenge of being a leader at work. By making connections within this network, I have been able to share my experiences, and learn from the experiences of others.

What's a place you've always wanted to visit but haven't yet?

Kenya. I would love to visit the wildlife reserves and witness animals in the wild.