Inspiring the Next Generation of Actuaries

In the world of actuarial science, where numbers and analytics reign supreme, the journey of Kimaada Boyce, a new Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (SOA), stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring and established actuaries. Her story is not just about achieving professional milestones; it’s about resilience, community, and the power of mentorship. As the leaders for the International Association of Black Actuaries (IABA) in Canada—Kimaada leading the Toronto Affiliate and myself leading the Montreal Affiliate—we are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within the profession.

A Journey Rooted in Passion

Kimaada’s journey began in Trinidad and Tobago, where her love for mathematics blossomed early on. Initially aspiring to be a lawyer due to her passion for argumentation, she quickly realized that her true calling lay in the world of numbers. “I always loved math,” she recalls, “and when a representative from the University of Waterloo introduced me to actuarial science, it felt like the perfect fit.”

Her academic path was not without challenges. Transitioning from high school to university, Kimaada was surrounded by equally bright peers. “It was a rude awakening,” she admits, “but it pushed me to find my groove and develop effective study habits.” This determination paid off as she navigated her co-op placements, gaining hands-on experience that solidified her passion for the profession.

Navigating Life as a Minority

One of the most profound aspects of Kimaada’s journey is her experience as a minority in Canada, a stark contrast to her upbringing in Trinidad and Tobago, where she was part of a majority. “In Trinidad, I grew up in a society where Black individuals held positions of power and influence,” she explains. “The Prime Minister, my teachers and my doctors were all Black. It was a privilege to see people who looked like me in leadership roles.”

Upon moving to Canada, Kimaada encountered a different reality. “I quickly realized that I was now part of a minority,” she reflects. “This shift was eye-opening. I had to navigate a new environment where systemic barriers existed and I became more aware of the challenges that Black individuals face in professional settings.”

Despite these challenges, Kimaada found strength in her identity and a desire to uplift others. “Understanding the barriers that exist for Black professionals in Canada motivated me to become an advocate for diversity and inclusion,” she states. Her journey highlights the importance of representation and the need for a supportive community, especially for those who may feel isolated in their experiences.

Celebrating Achievements: Fellowship Admission Course

A significant moment in Kimaada’s path was her experience with the Fellowship Admission Course (FAC), where she celebrated her achievement alongside two other new Black Fellows. “Walking into the FAC, I was initially nervous, thinking I might be the only one,” she recalls. However, she was pleasantly surprised to see familiar faces and to share this milestone with fellow Black actuaries.

“It was empowering to be part of a small group of new Black FSAs,” Kimaada shares. “We were able to celebrate our accomplishments together, and it felt like a moment of collective achievement.” The camaraderie and support among the three of them highlighted the importance of representation in the profession. “Seeing others who looked like me in this space made the experience even more special.”

This moment not only reinforced Kimaada’s commitment to her own career trajectory but also emphasized the need for continued efforts to increase diversity within the actuarial community. “We need more Black actuaries to share these experiences and pave the way for future generations,” she asserts.

Balancing Life and Study

Kimaada showed a healthy persistence in her ability to balance her studies, work and personal life. “I didn’t want to lose five to seven years of my life just studying for exams,” she explains. Instead, she crafted a reasonable study schedule that allowed her to enjoy life while preparing for her future. “I made sure to take Fridays off to recharge, and I prioritized my social life alongside my studies.”

This approach not only helped her manage the stress of exam preparation but also reinforced the importance of maintaining a well-rounded life. Kimaada’s experience serves as a reminder that success in the actuarial field does not require sacrificing personal happiness.

The Significance of Fellowship

Achieving Fellowship is a monumental milestone in an actuary’s career, and for Kimaada, it represents the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance. “It’s a testament to my dedication and a dream realized,” she reflects. Professionally, her Fellowship has opened doors to new opportunities, including a senior manager role at her company. “In Canada, having your designation is crucial for career advancement.”

As a Fellow myself, I take immense pride in Kimaada’s accomplishments. I believe her success not only reflects her hard work but also serves as an inspiration to others in our community, particularly young Black actuaries who aspire to follow in her footsteps.

The Role of Mentorship and Community

Kimaada’s involvement with the IABA highlights her dedication to mentorship and community support. “Mentorship is vital, both formal and informal,” she asserts. Throughout her career, she has benefited from the guidance of mentors who have shared similar experiences. Now, she is eager to pay it forward, helping others navigate their paths in the actuarial profession.

“Having a community of like-minded individuals can alleviate the pressures and anxieties that come with this journey,” Kimaada explains. Her commitment to mentorship is a powerful reminder of the importance of community in achieving success.

A Vision for Diversity and Inclusion

As Kimaada looks to the future, she envisions a more diverse and inclusive actuarial profession. “We need more actuaries that look like me,” she states candidly. She believes that diversity not only enriches the profession but also enhances the services provided to a diverse clientele. “To effectively serve the Canadian community, we need representation at the table,” she emphasizes.

Kimaada’s legacy is one of empowerment and impact. She hopes to inspire young Black actuaries to pursue their dreams and break down barriers in the profession. “It’s possible to be a successful Black actuary,” she asserts, “and I want to be a living example of that.”

Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead

Kimaada’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance and community. Her story, I believe, can serve as inspiration for aspiring actuaries, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. As she continues to break barriers and pave the way for future generations, Kimaada embodies the spirit of resilience and hope in the actuarial profession.

In a world where diversity and inclusion are more important than ever, Kimaada’s voice is a powerful reminder that the actuarial community can—and should—reflect the rich tapestry of society. Together, as IABA Affiliate leaders in Canada, we are committed to fostering an environment where all actuaries can thrive. Kimaada’s career is just beginning, and with her positive energy and commitment to making a difference, the future looks bright for both her and the next generation of actuaries.

Statements of fact and opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and are not necessarily those of the Society of Actuaries or the respective authors’ employers.

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