Andre Brooks is the 2016 Insurance Apprentice winner

Andre Brooks of Price Forbes has claimed the title Insurance Apprentice 2016. He was announced as the winner at Hollard’s Villa Arcadia in Parktown on 14 April 2016.

Filming took place in mid-January and several episodes have been released since, showcasing the challenges, learnings and experiences that Alicia, Andre, Celina, Chris, Karabo, Priya, Richard and Unathi have undertaken. CN&CO was one of the sponsors of the show.

Rianet Whitehead, editor of FANews and champion of the Insurance Apprentice franchise, says the show is about changing perceptions of the insurance industry.

“We’re trying to show people outside the industry what insurance is all about; trying to excite the younger generation working in insurance.”

And there certainly has been excitement.

“We hear some people placed bets on who they think will win,” said Rianet. “There has been huge excitement in companies throughout the industry – newsletters, tweeting, Facebooking. It’s been great to see.”

The keynote speaker was former South African cricket captain Graeme Smith, who spoke about leadership and overcoming obstacles. Graeme became captain of the Proteas at age 22, and it took him a while to find his rhythm.

“I managed to perform as an individual through the pressure of the captaincy,” he said. “I think I needed to grow with experience as a captain, develop and make mistakes. I was very fortunate that people allowed me to do that and supported me through it.”

On setbacks he quoted a line that Jacques Kallis delivered after he (Graeme) had broken his hand during a test match against Australia.

“Chicks dig scars,” he said. “Glory lasts forever.”

For Andre Brooks, the Insurance Apprentice 2016 winner, the glory has just started.

“The experience was challenging, but fun,” he said. “I would do it again in a heartbeat! It takes a world of courage to put yourself out there and take yourself out of your comfort zone.”

Andre challenged all young insurance professionals to enter the competition.

“Insurance Apprentice allows you to test your mettle against the best in the industry,” he said. “It’s tremendous experience and exposure – truly life changing.”

Andre won a week-long trip to London, sponsored by Lloyd’s of London, as well as a R70 000 study bursary from Inseta.

“It’s been an exciting journey for us as proud co-sponsors of the show,” says CN&CO’s Carel Nolte. “The insurance industry and its people are close to our hearts. Getting to know all the finalists and enjoying this journey with them has been truly special and certainly added to our belief in the power of people and the industry’s talent.”

Congratulations and thanks once again to all the finalists, sponsors, the FANews team, film crew and all who made it possible.

Stay updated with the Insurance Apprentice via Twitter – @TheInsApp.