Gef’s 30 Under 30 Winners: Q&A with Aalish Harris

Ten categories. Thirty young visionaries making their mark on the Isle of Man. Introducing the all-new #Gef30Under30 winners: the next generation of our island’s leaders.

Whether it’s managing a young team in business or leading one to victory out on the court, the Jacksons Leadership winners all know how to command a room.

What is your name and age?

Aalish Harris, age 25.

Job title or role in the community?

Head of commercial/netball coach & volunteer.

Current organisation, business or employer?

Zurich & Isle of Man Netball.

How did you start your career or role in the community?

A lot of people say that they ‘fall’ into a career in the insurance industry, which wasn’t entirely true for me. I’d previously completed some work experience at Zurich whilst in my final year of sixth form and, having learned about the international footprint and variety of the business, I knew it was somewhere I wanted to work. I applied for a vacancy to train as an accountant the year after leaving school, and I’ve since held various roles within our international corporate business from technical and governance to customer facing, to help broaden my knowledge of how the business operates. I now head up our Commercial function.

Within IOM netball, I’ve been a player ever since primary school, but throughout high school, I qualified as an umpire and coach which allowed me to pick up additional roles within my local club. After leaving school I began volunteering to coach within the IOM netball setup and running the mixed business league. IOM netball has grown from strength-strength over the last few years, and as a result created a pathway for girls and boys from U11’s through to seniors. I’m proud to represent the IOM at a senior level, coordinate and run the mixed business league and I am currently the head coach for the U15s.

Who are your role models, either on-island or off, in your sector or outside of it?

I have always admired Joanne Harten MBE, both for her netball accolades and profound leadership. She shows complete devotion to the team she plays with, is consistently curious, challenges the status quo, and leads with passion. I had the pleasure of being coached by her when I was 13 years old, and the impact that had on me and my game is undeniable – I know she inspires many females, like me, globally.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?

‘It doesn’t matter’. I’m an overthinker and throughout my career have been told ‘it doesn’t matter’, which resonated maybe 3 years after I was first told. In essence, don’t regret the past and don’t be anxious about the future – just focus on what you’re trying to achieve, what gaps you’re trying to fill, and what development you need, to help you move forwards.

What does being a Gef 30 Under 30 winner mean to you?

I’m honoured to have been named a winner, particularly as the island is filled with so much young talent. Within the insurance industry, the minority of female leaders is apparent, so it’s encouraging to know that I’m taking steps in the right direction.

What would you say to young people nominating themselves, or people nominating others, for 30 Under 30 in the future?

Just do it! There are many people who are standout leaders/sportspersons/entrepreneurs that should be recognised for being brilliant. A story could inspire someone so why not share it?