Women Who Lead Help Us All WIN

Mariya Nagapetyan’s Career Path 

What’s your career pathway been like?

My career path in this industry has been a journey. This is a journey that I am thankful for, it has allowed me to become the best version of myself. As a leader and mentor, you must learn to lead by example. It’s extremely essential to inspire others through your actions, actions speak louder than words. It is my belief in cultivating a positive and inclusive environment, building a culture, and finding your why, so you never work a day in your life. I strongly believe in what we do. I don’t consider any of our agents as life insurance agents, I see them as LifeChangers. They’re guardians of financial security and protectors of peace of mind for the future.

How did you get to where you are now?

With a mission-driven mindset, success works best when it’s shared. When reflecting on my personal journey and how I got to where I am today. It has been a combination of the unwavering support of mentors and loved ones who believed in me. I have learned to take myself out of the equation and turn my “I” into a “WE”. To get to where you want to go, you must elevate others to greater heights. My formula’s very simple: Add the word “extra” to ordinary and you get extraordinary!

What did you want to be when you “grew up”?

I would say in my youth, I developed a deep desire to become a teacher. At a young age, I had the admiration, inspiration, and passion for sharing knowledge.

Has the industry landscape changed during your career? What have you seen?

The industry has made significant changes in recent years to adapt to evolving customer needs and market dynamics. I have seen more technological advancements that have revolutionized processes allowing for more efficient underwriting and client experiences. The enhancement with living benefit riders is a game changer. The power to offer financial support and protection while living and give you access during your time of need. The client intelligent app empowers clients to easily manage their insurance policies at their fingertips. All have taken a positive approach to helping the sales force in the field.

Working With National Life 

What do you like most about working with the National Life Group?

For me, it’s the dynamics of core business values the company leaders operate off. When a company has built on a foundation of love, trust, and shared values. It brings a sense of unity, support, togetherness, and strength allowing you to grow and help one family at a time. It also permits you to strengthen your community and share a common identity of doing good, it’s a trickle-down effect. It’s not just a company, it’s a family!

Do you have a cause or a favorite “Do good” passion?

I believe without a cause you have no purpose.

I am currently serving as a Board Member for two different Charities. The first one is Freedom Loving Youth ‘Fly’. The mission is to transform the lives of orphans and children in need worldwide. ‘Fly’ focuses on neglected children facing tremendous poverty, abuse, illness, and injustice worldwide.

The second one, is the City of Smile Foundation, was created to support people with oncological and hematological diseases. Our mission is to stand by their side and help them and their families in their challenging journey of conquering cancer.

What attracted you to National Life and what would you tell someone who is considering doing business with us?

National Life Insurance Company is not just a company, that has been around since 1848. They are true leaders in the industry with strong values, commitment, integrity, and exceptional experiences. They have kept their promises for over 175 years and continue to grow and unmeasurable heights. Choosing to partner up and belong to a brand with fundamental ethics. Identifies a mirroring image of your business model and business morals.

 Advice & Inspiration 

What leadership quality do you most admire and aspire to?

The leadership qualities I most admire and aspire to include empathy, resilience, and visionary thinking. Empathy allows leaders to understand and connect with the needs and emotions of others, and stimulates trust and collaboration. Resilience enables leaders to navigate challenges gracefully, learn from setbacks and inspire their teams to always keep going. Visionary thinking empowers leaders to see beyond the present, envision possibilities and inspire others to work towards a shared vision of success. Teamwork makes the dream work!

Is there a particular woman who has inspired you in life?

My immigrant grandmother (Greece to Armenia) and mother (Armenia to the US) are both extraordinary women whose strength has deeply influenced me. Their resilience in leaving their home country and adapting to a new culture exemplifies their unwavering determination. Despite facing countless obstacles, they never wavered in their pursuit of a better life for themselves and their loved ones. Their strength inspires me to face challenges head-on and to never give up on my dreams!

What advice would you give to young women who are just beginning their careers?

Young women who are starting a new career path and journey. My biggest advice would be to always be open to change, change means growth. Never focus on the problem, always put your energy into the solution. Never take no for an answer. Let perseverance and determination become your best friend. Be proud of your strengths, but never stop working on your weaknesses. Consistency is key, stay hungry and humble. When you fall allow yourself to pick yourself up, fix your crown and move forward, never turn back. One last thing, your dreams don’t work unless you do!

Any other words of wisdom you’d like to share?

Always be a helping hand, in lifting others, you are also elevating yourself. Kindness and compassion have the power to create a ripple effect of positivity and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around you. I wholeheartedly believe a giving hand will never be an empty hand. To give is to receive!