Event Recap | Fireside Chat: Give to Gain – Women, Wisdom & What Matters

On the eve of the 2026 WiRe Women’s Day Gala, Women in Reinsurance (WiRe) hosted a special International Women’s Day fireside chat, Give to Gain: Women, Wisdom & What Matters. The conversation brought together this year’s Gala Keynote Speaker, Fiona Luck, alongside two women instrumental in shaping WiRe’s foundation and growth, Deanne Nixon and Susan Patschak.

Moderated by WiRe Board Member, Adria Richards, the discussion offered an engaging and candid look at leadership, career growth, and the importance of giving back. Through animated stories from throughout their careers, the panelists reflected on pivotal moments that shaped their professional journeys. Including the story behind the founding of WiRe and the organization’s very first event – an early gathering that helped spark the inspiration of WiRe's current Chairwoman, Peta White, and set the stage for the community WiRe has become today.

The panelists also shared thoughtful reflections on how they approached risk early in their careers, often relying on intuition to pursue opportunities that aligned with their values and ambitions. They spoke about the individuals who inspired and supported them along the way, highlighting the powerful role that mentorship plays in professional development.

A particularly resonant theme was the distinction between mentorship and sponsorship. While mentorship provides guidance, the panel emphasized that sponsorship – actively advocating for and opening doors for women – is often what truly propels careers forward.

The conversation reinforced the importance of women uplifting one another, creating opportunities, and building supportive networks where others can thrive.

Thank you to Fiona Luck, Deanne Nixon, and Susan Patschak for sharing their wisdom and experiences so generously, and to Adria Richards for thoughtfully moderating the conversation. Their insights set a powerful and inspiring tone for the celebrations that followed at the 2026 WiRe Women’s Day Gala.