Banking News – While young people today actively seek opportunities, many tend to step back when faced with challenges. Despite having talent and qualifications, perseverance and dedication seem to be diminishing among the youth. In an era where patience is fading, there are still individuals who dedicate their entire careers to a single field for decades.

One such exemplary figure is Sabita Maskey, who has spent 40 years in the insurance sector, demonstrating unwavering commitment and resilience. In a modern world where career changes are common, Savita has carved a significant identity in the insurance industry through hard work, integrity, and patience.

Journey from Kathmandu to Leadership

Originally from Dhankuta, Maskey was born and raised in Kathmandu, where her father, a government employee, was frequently transferred. This led to her attending multiple schools before finally completing her education in the capital.

A postgraduate in Economics, Maskey had an interest not just in academics but also in practical work. Back in her time, professions in agricultural development banks, commercial banks, insurance companies, and teaching at Tribhuvan University were highly regarded. She initially pursued a teaching career at Shankhar Dev Campus but remained open to other opportunities, which eventually led her to join the National Insurance Corporation.

“Young People Lack Patience”

Reflecting on her four-decade-long journey, Maskey feels that young professionals today often lack the patience and practical mindset needed for sustained success. She has witnessed significant improvements in workplace facilities and services, but she believes modern youth expect quick results without enduring the necessary struggles.

“When I see young women today expecting rapid success, I recall the hardships my colleagues and I faced in the past,” says Maskey. She advises young professionals, particularly women in the insurance sector, to be patient and committed to their careers rather than seeking instant gratification.

She also emphasizes that women who choose to stay at home should not be undervalued, as household work is just as demanding as professional jobs. However, she encourages those who wish to work outside to utilize their education and skills to build fulfilling careers.

“Women in Leadership Were Uncommon”

When Maskey first entered the industry, insurance was male-dominated, and women in leadership roles were rare. She recalls that despite having theoretical knowledge, the practical aspects of the job were initially challenging.

“At first, I struggled because book knowledge alone wasn’t enough. The real-world experience was completely different,” she says. However, she persisted through difficulties, including working in rural areas to promote insurance awareness, despite the additional challenges of being a woman in the field.

Over time, she became actively involved in training new employees, using her expertise to educate and guide the next generation in the insurance sector. Due to health reasons, she could not continue this role indefinitely but remains passionate about mentoring young professionals.

“Avoid the Entitlement Mentality”

In recent years, organizations have introduced quotas for women in leadership roles, but Maskey believes women should not rely solely on these benefits. She urges them to take equal responsibility alongside men rather than focusing only on privileges.

“Women should not just demand special treatment. If they want to be seen as equals, they must take on equal responsibilities,” she states. “Society will stop underestimating women when they actively contribute without expecting extra advantages.”

A Life Dedicated to Insurance

Beyond her professional life, Maskey enjoys sewing and knitting and cherishes spending time with her grandchildren. However, her deepest passion remains the insurance sector, which she considers as important as her family.

Although she acknowledges that the industry has improved over time, she believes it has yet to reach its full potential. “My greatest wish is to see the insurance sector grow significantly,” she says. “The dedication and integrity of professionals in this field deserve better recognition and success.”

(This article is part of a special week-long series by Banking News, highlighting women in leadership roles in the banking and insurance sectors on the occasion of International Women’s Day (March 8).)