Lighting Up London: Our Incredible Diwali Celebration
Team iCAN had the privilege of hosting a spectacular London Festival of Lights Diwali celebration, alongside our fantastic partners Tokio Marine Kiln, BMS Group, and Apollo.
It was a magical evening filled with joy, connection, and cultural celebration, embodying the spirit of resilience, renewal, and togetherness that defines Diwali.
The event began with an inspiring panel discussion, moderated brilliantly by our iCAN Connect Lead, Bal Mahil. Each speaker shared their personal connection to Diwali, offering heartfelt reflections on tradition and community.
Kirat Kaur Nandra MICM (Grad) reminded us, “It’s about togetherness, and it’s never going to change if people at the top aren’t sending that message.”
Vivek Syal, CUO at TMK, highlighted how sharing heritage fosters understanding and breaks down barriers, emphasising the long-lasting influence of older generations.
Vinay Mistry, CRO at Apollo, passionately advocated for involving younger generations in celebrations to keep traditions alive. He also shared the vibrancy of Leicester’s Golden Mile celebrations, showcasing how grassroots events amplify community voices.
The festivities continued with traditional dancing, henna art, and a vibrant display of Diwali traditions that immersed attendees in the festival’s rich cultural beauty. The room was alive with energy, laughter, and shared experiences, making it a truly unforgettable night.
In the true spirit of Diwali, we proudly supported the Diwali Basket Brigade, a community initiative providing food baskets to families in need. This meaningful gesture reminded us that Diwali is not just a celebration, but also a time to give back and uplift others.
A huge thank you to our partners, incredible speakers, and everyone who attended for making this event so special. It was a beautiful example of building and celebrating community—and we’re already brewing exciting plans for next year!
Here’s to more light, more connection, and more celebrations to come. Stay tuned!
About iCAN
The Insurance Cultural Awareness Network (iCAN) is a leading organisation committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the insurance sector. Established in 2017, iCAN has been instrumental in spotlighting cultural awareness, fostering talent, and championing diversity within the industry.