Women triumph at Guardian Life Awards

Women reigned supreme at the recent annual awards for Guardian Life Limited held at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel ballroom. In its 16th year, staff members were recognised for their commitment dedication and loyalty.

Board members, directors, execs, managers, sales representatives and valued clients and customers gathered to show appreciation and gratitude.

Scores of women dominated the awards presentation.

Fay Hutchinson, Delta Barrett, Simone Henry, and Ann-Marie Ashman were among those who won multiple awards for outstanding work and achievement.

Employee of the Year, Juliette Gibson, told The Gleaner, "Life is made up of many peaks and valleys. The valleys reflect the value we placed on our peaks. Winning this award is one of my peaks, and it has been a great privilege to be a part of the Guardian Life family. It has not been easy, but I can say the woman I am today comes from my experience at this noble institution. I am extremely humbled by the recognition bestowed on me. It has been an honour to serve my community.

Multi-award winner Claudette Jackson-Rickards, who joined Guardian Life nine years ago, won the prestigious Insurance Advisor of the Year award. She said, "My journey to the top was a journey that came with many experiences, tests of patience and faith, failures and much success. I learnt a lot of life lessons, especially humility. The ultimate victory in competition derives from inner satisfaction knowing you have done and given your best. Obstacles are necessary for success, because in selling, like all careers of importance, victory comes after many struggles and countless defeats."

Company Secretary Claudette Ashman, who has been with Guardian Life since it started 16 years ago, explained, "Women are more focused employees and have nurturing attitudes. This is why they excel in sales and at the workplace. This is our natural gift."

She said the secret to Guardian Life's success is, "The company operates like a family - we fight, but we love and support each other."

Other awardees included information technology senior systems administrator, Norman Lackansingh, who won the Community Service Award. He said he felt great having worked hard and his award is well deserved.

Acknowledging Guardian's Life family bond, president Eric Hosin said, "Our annual awards always highlights our family spirit as a company. This is where our strength lies. Guardian Life was originally formed out of a very difficult financial era, nevertheless, we weathered the storm and remained strong despite a rough start. Growing from strength to strength, we are always grateful for our success."