Hear from the 2023 Community Excellence Member of the Year Award Winner
Hear from our 2023 Community Excellence Member of the Year winner about their journey and how the award has positively influenced their career.
Want to know what makes a community champion? Hear from our 2023 Community Excellence Member of the Year winner about their journey and how the award has positively influenced their career.
Recognising the heart of giving
While filling out the application for the NIBA Community Excellence Member of the Year Award was both confronting and cathartic for Paula Cruden, Managing Director of Integrite Insurance, winning the award in 2023 was a highlight of her career.
“It was such an honour to even be considered for the award, and it made me realise that there is a lot of incredible charity work being done by the insurance broking industry in the community,” Paula said. “This sentiment was not lost on the award sponsor, Liberty Speciality Markets, who not only contributed $1000 to my charity of choice, Capes 4 Kids Australia, but also donated to all the applicants’ charities of choice. I’m grateful for their support and generosity.”
Paula followed her passion
After spending 15 years as an underwriter mainly for non-for-profits (NFPs), Paula decided to switch to insurance broking and start her own business, Integrite Insurance, which specialises in NFPs. Paula is inspired by her clients and not only helps them in business but enjoys participating in their fundraising events.
“I’ve been running Integrite Insurance for six years and working with NFPs is my passion,” Paula explained. “I believe if you have the time to give back, you should do it. Starting the business came at a time when my career was at a crossroads. It was the perfect choice to give me the flexibility to spend more time with my family, and develop connections with clients, which I really value in my work.
“It hasn’t been without its challenges, but working with NFP clients is very rewarding, and I found that the insurance broking industry has a wonderful community spirit. I’ve made many friends at the NIBA educational and social events, and I have an amazing mentor and family, so I feel well supported.
Award has great benefits and it’s easy to apply
“The application process for the NIBA Community Excellence Member of the Year Award was easy and the judges were genuine and very interested,” Paula added. “When I won the award the messages of support from colleagues and clients were overwhelming. It also attracted the interest of insurers who wanted to help in the NFP space, and was a very positive outcome for Capes 4 Kids Australia, as my business matched the $1000 Liberty Specialty Markets donation, and so did McLardy McShane Partners.
“Initially, I found it hard to talk about myself when I applied for the award, but it is actually a rewarding experience, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend anyone considering applying for the 2024 award to just do it. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain!”
