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May 29, 2026, 8:30 - 10:30 AM
Join the Insurance Brokers Association of New Brunswick (IBANB) for a morning of inspiration, connection, and empowerment at our Women in Insurance Breakfast, taking place on Friday, May 29, 2026.
Held the morning following our Annual Convocation & Awards Gala, this annual event brings together accomplished women from across the insurance sector to share their personal career journeys, leadership insights, and practical advice with peers and emerging professionals.
This breakfast offers a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations around leadership, resilience, growth, and balance — while fostering mentorship and celebrating the women who are shaping the future of insurance.
Sheila Koester is a Commercial Insurance Broker with Higgins Insurance, where she began her career in 2020 before transitioning into a commercial role in 2021. Passionate about professional development and continuous learning, Sheila earned her CAIB, CRM, and CIP designations by 2025, reflecting her strong commitment to industry excellence.
An active leader within the insurance community, Sheila serves as Co-Chair of the Young Brokers Network (YBN) and was featured in the IBANB recruitment campaign, helping inspire the next generation of insurance professionals. She is also dedicated to mentorship and education, sharing her knowledge as an instructor for CAIB II and III.
Originally from the Kingston Peninsula, Sheila is a proud mother of two daughters, ages 9 and 11. Outside of work, she enjoys music and playing the piano.
Lori Thebeau, CAIB, is the Branch Manager of Western Financial Group’s Woodstock, New Brunswick office and current President of the Insurance Brokers Association of New Brunswick Board of Directors. With more than 30 years in the insurance industry, Lori is recognized as a dedicated leader who values strong client relationships, mentorship, and advocacy for the brokerage community.
Lori began her career in insurance in 1993 and transitioned into the brokerage sector in 1994, building experience in both commercial and personal lines before moving into leadership roles. In 2005, while balancing her career and raising her two daughters, she earned her CAIB designation. She later advanced into leadership positions, eventually taking on her current role with Western Financial Group.
Deeply committed to the industry, Lori joined the IBANB Board of Directors in 2020 and currently serves as President. Outside of work, she enjoys the outdoors alongside her husband of 26 years, Wesley. Together, they operate March & Mill Co Outfitters near Woodstock and spend their time mountain biking, hiking, camping, and exploring the outdoors with their two Drahthaars, Boog and Chester.
Brett Boadway is the Executive Director of the Canadian Association of Managing General Agents (CAMGA), bringing together extensive experience in both association leadership and the insurance industry. She began her career with The Dominion of Canada General Insurance Company before moving to the Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario (IBAO), where she ultimately served as Chief Operating Officer.
Brett holds a business degree with a specialization in finance from Western University and has pursued additional studies in law, finance, e-commerce, public relations, and executive leadership, including a Mini MBA from the Schulich School of Business.
Passionate about collaboration, innovation, and developing future industry leaders, Brett is committed to strengthening connections across the insurance sector and inspiring the next generation of professionals. She lives in Toronto with her husband and twin daughters.
Christy Barsalou is the Co-Founder and CEO of QuickFacts, an InsurTech platform designed to help streamline knowledge and support brokers across North America. After spending 17 years working in nearly every role within an insurance brokerage — from receptionist to Director of Operations & Innovation for Atlantic Canada’s first digital brokerage — Christy recognized the need for better systems to support broker success and help modernize the industry.
A passionate advocate for the broker community, Christy previously served on the IBANS Board of Directors and spent several years teaching CAIB programs to emerging industry professionals. She is a two-time Elite Insurance Woman and a recognized Top 100 industry leader who believes technology should empower people, not replace them.
Despite the accolades, Christy remains most passionate about solving problems for the insurance industry — proudly embracing the title she values most: Insurance Nerd.
Karen Kaminska brings more than 30 years of experience in the insurance industry, the majority of which has been spent with Economical Insurance. Throughout her career, she has held a variety of roles across personal lines, claims, operations, and business development, giving her a well-rounded industry perspective and strong operational expertise.
Based in Nova Scotia for more than 20 years, Karen has been actively involved with the IBC Atlantic Committee and is passionate about supporting collaboration and connection within the industry. She credits much of her success to the strong professional and personal networks that have supported and guided her throughout her career, and she is committed to fostering that same support for her colleagues and team members.
Outside of work, Karen enjoys spending time with her family, whether at the barn with her horse or out on the water boating.
For more information, please contact:
Becci Taylor, BBA, CAIB Hons
Executive Director | Directrice exécutive
Insurance Brokers Association of New Brunswick
