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Rachel Thomas: Winner – Women Leader in Commercial Insurance Broking | International Women Awards 2026

  • Writer: Great Companies
    Great Companies
  • Mar 27
  • 3 min read

The 8th International Women Awards 2026 by Great Companies recognizes women leaders who are building purpose-driven businesses and redefining industries through resilience, leadership, and impact.


Among this year’s distinguished winners is Rachel Thomas, Founder & Principal of Grace Insurance, honored as Winner – Women Leader in Commercial Insurance Broking.


Based in Perth, Western Australia, Australia, Rachel is transforming the insurance industry through a values-led, client-first approach that combines deep expertise with genuine human connection.


Company Overview

Founder: Rachel Thomas

Business: Grace Insurance (Seraphine Australia Pty Ltd)

Location: Perth, Western Australia, Australia

Founded: 2025

Category: Commercial Insurance Broking

Industry: Insurance & Risk Management


Redefining Insurance with Clarity, Care, and Integrity

Grace Insurance is a modern insurance broking business focused on delivering personalised, ethical, and client-centric solutions for individuals and businesses.


With over 25 years of industry experience, Rachel provides:

  • Tailored insurance advisory and risk strategies

  • Clear and transparent policy guidance

  • End-to-end support in decision-making

  • Strong client advocacy during critical moments


The firm is built on a simple yet powerful philosophy:👉 Insurance is not about policies—it’s about protecting people and what matters most.


A Values-Driven Approach That Stands Apart

What differentiates Grace Insurance is its deeply personal and purpose-driven model, rarely seen in traditional broking firms.

Key strengths include:

  • One-on-one advisory backed by 25+ years of expertise

  • Combination of independent agility with strong institutional backing

  • A brand rooted in trust, strength, and protection

  • Clear, compassionate communication that simplifies complexity

Clients choose Grace Insurance because they are treated not as policies—but as people with real needs, risks, and aspirations.


From Experience to Entrepreneurship

After a long and successful corporate career, Rachel made a bold decision—to step into entrepreneurship and build a business aligned with her values.

Her journey reflects:

  • Courage to leave secure employment

  • Confidence in her expertise and leadership

  • A vision to create a more human and ethical insurance experience

Her leadership is shaped by resilience, purpose, and a commitment to raising industry standards.


Breaking Barriers in a Male-Dominated Industry

Rachel’s journey has not been without challenges:

  • Navigating a male-dominated insurance sector for over two decades

  • Continuously proving her capability and leadership

  • Overcoming self-doubt while launching her own venture

  • Managing the uncertainty of building a business independently

Each challenge strengthened her belief that women should not just seek opportunities—but create and lead them.


Leadership Rooted in Purpose and Advocacy

Rachel’s business identity, inspired by the concept of “Seraphine”, reflects:

  • Strength and resilience

  • Wisdom and protection

  • A powerful feminine leadership presence

Her approach blends:

  • Professional expertise

  • Emotional intelligence

  • Strong client advocacy

This creates a business that is both strategically strong and deeply human.


Advice for Women Entrepreneurs

Rachel shares powerful and inspiring advice:

“Trust your voice and back yourself, even when others don’t yet see your potential. Don’t wait for permission—create your own opportunities. Let your values guide your business, as they will become your greatest differentiator.”

Her message emphasizes courage, self-belief, and purpose-driven leadership.


The Future

Grace Insurance is focused on:

  • Expanding its footprint across Australia’s insurance market

  • Continuing to deliver relationship-driven, high-trust advisory services

  • Raising standards in transparency, governance, and client care

  • Empowering more women to step into leadership within the industry

The vision is to build a business that stands for trust, protection, and human-first insurance solutions.


Official Recognition

Rachel Thomas has been honored as the Winner – Women Leader in Commercial Insurance Broking at the 8th International Women Awards 2026 by Great Companies, recognizing her contribution to client advocacy and ethical leadership in the insurance industry.



About the Awards

The International Women Awards by Great Companies celebrates women leaders who are driving innovation, impact, and excellence across industries worldwide.


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