Dive In 2026: A Final Celebration of Inclusion in Insurance

The insurance industry is bracing for a seismic shift, and Dive In 2026, the global festival dedicated to culture and talent in this sector, is set to close its final chapter in September. Over the past decade, Dive In has championed the cause of inclusion, transforming it from a peripheral topic to a core principle embedded in corporate values. As it prepares to conclude its journey, the festival confronts the pressing challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI), which is fundamentally reshaping workplace dynamics. With early careers hiring in the London market plummeting by 25% in 2025 and further declines anticipated in 2026, the festival serves as both a celebration and a critical moment for reflection.

The final edition, scheduled from September 22 to 24, will draw professionals from over 30 countries and will feature content available in 60 different languages. Under the theme "The Human gAIn: Powering culture and connection," the festival aims to explore the interplay between human qualities and AI in the insurance workplace, focusing on high-performance teams, psychological safety, neurodiversity, and the evolving relationships between humans and AI.

The Landscape of Inclusion and AI

As the insurance sector faces rapid technological advancements, the workforce is undergoing a significant transformation. Currently, the proportion of employees under 30 is projected to drop from 24% to just 7% by 2030 if current hiring trends continue. This stark reality underscores the need for ongoing dialogue about how to maintain a diverse and inclusive workforce in the face of automation and AI. Jen Denby, the global head of inclusion and diversity at WTW, has emphasized the importance of embedding inclusion into corporate strategies, as organizations must adapt to a new workplace ecosystem driven by technological innovation.

The Dive In festival has played a pivotal role in this transformation, fostering an environment that encourages open discussion and collaboration. Mark Lomas, who leads culture, talent, and communities at Lloyd's, highlighted that there has never been a more crucial time to leverage new ways of working for the benefit of all employees. As AI redefines roles and responsibilities, Dive In stands as a unique platform to facilitate these essential conversations.

The Significance of the Final Edition

The 2026 edition represents a culmination of over a decade of efforts to promote inclusion and belonging within the insurance industry. The festival was initially conceived by Inclusion at Lloyd's, a collaborative initiative between several influential organizations, including the Corporation of Lloyd's, IUA, LIIBA, and the Lloyd's Market Association. The support from major players such as AIG, Aon, Aviva, and Liberty Mutual underscores the commitment of the industry to foster an inclusive environment.

As the festival approaches its conclusion, it offers a unique opportunity for stakeholders to reflect on the progress made in the past ten years while also looking forward. The insights gained from this final gathering should inform the industry's approach to building workplaces that can coexist harmoniously with emerging technologies. By examining the successes and challenges of the past, participants can develop strategies that prioritize human qualities in an increasingly automated landscape.

What to Expect at Dive In 2026

The program for Dive In 2026 includes a range of innovative formats designed to engage attendees and stimulate thought-provoking discussions. Highlights of the event include:

• TED-style Talks: Renowned speakers will share their insights on the intersection of technology and human experience in the workplace.
• Design Jams: Interactive sessions where participants can collaboratively brainstorm solutions to real-world challenges related to inclusion and AI.
• Debates: Engaging discussions where experts will tackle contentious topics surrounding the future of work in the context of AI.

Prominent speakers at this year’s festival include Will Greenwood, customer officer at Afiniti and a Rugby World Cup winner, Sarah Armstrong-Smith, chief security advisor for EMEA at Microsoft, and Jez Rose, a behavioral and leadership expert. Their contributions promise to enrich the dialogue surrounding the integration of human qualities and technology.

Registration and Participation

Registration for Dive In 2026 opens on July 14, 2026, at 08:00 BST. The festival offers free registration for all insurance professionals globally, providing an accessible platform for industry participants to engage with the pressing issues of our time. Those who register within the first 24 hours will also be entered into a prize draw, adding an extra incentive for early sign-ups.

With its wealth of resources, including the IB+ Data Hub, the festival aims to equip attendees with powerful insights and tools necessary for data-driven decision-making. By fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing, Dive In 2026 seeks to empower insurance professionals to navigate the evolving landscape of their industry effectively.

Key Takeaways

• Dive In 2026 marks the final edition of a decade-long festival focused on inclusion in the insurance sector.
• The event will address the integration of human qualities with AI in the workplace.
• Registration is free and open to all insurance professionals worldwide.
• Innovative formats like TED-style talks and design jams will enhance participant engagement.
• Key industry leaders will share insights on navigating the future of work.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Dive In festival?

The Dive In festival is a global event dedicated to promoting inclusion and diversity within the insurance industry. It facilitates discussions on various topics related to workplace culture, talent, and the future of work, particularly in the context of technological advancements.

Why is this year’s festival particularly significant?

This year marks the final edition of the Dive In festival, concluding a decade of advocacy for inclusion in the insurance sector. As AI transforms workplace dynamics, the festival serves as a crucial platform for reflection and strategizing how to maintain inclusive practices amid these changes.

Who can attend the Dive In festival?

The festival is open to all insurance professionals globally, providing an inclusive environment for individuals at all levels of the industry to engage with critical issues and share insights.

What topics will be covered at the festival?

Topics at Dive In 2026 will include the integration of AI and human qualities in the workplace, high-performance teams, psychological safety, and neurodiversity. The program will feature a variety of formats, such as talks, interactive sessions, and debates, aimed at fostering meaningful dialogue.