If you’re a young insurance professional in New York who is ambitious, curious, and eager to make your mark, there’s a place built just for you. It’s called NextGen NY, and it’s where your professional journey takes off.
At the Big I NY Local Leaders Summit this September, Ashley Engl, NextGen NY State Chair and Northeast representative on the National Young Agents Committee, shared what’s next for the program and how you can get involved.
“NextGen is about creating opportunities for younger professionals to connect, grow, and lead,” Ashley said. “We’re building off local associations, expanding statewide, and making sure every agent has a way to plug in.”
Why NextGen NY?
NextGen NY exists to support, connect, and elevate early-career insurance professionals across the state. Whether you’re under 40 or simply looking to expand your professional community, NextGen offers:
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Professional development designed for your career stage
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Networking opportunities with peers and mentors who understand your path
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Leadership experiences that prepare you for the next level
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Community service projects that give back while building meaningful connections
From virtual meetups to in-person gatherings, every NextGen activity is designed to strengthen your confidence, expand your network, and grow your impact within the industry.
Connection Starts Here
One of the biggest successes of NextGen NY has been the annual virtual Coffee Chat in January, a fun and relaxed way to meet others across the state, share ideas, and set goals for the year ahead.
“It’s an easy entry point,” Ashley said. “You don’t have to travel, and you get to connect with people who are as excited about this industry as you are.”
Each region has its own NextGen chapter, so whether you’re in Buffalo, Syracuse, or Long Island, you’re never far from a NextGen member or event.
Doing Good, Together
Beyond networking and professional development, NextGen NY is about making a difference. Local and statewide chapters work together on charitable initiatives that blend service with social connection:
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October Month of Giving, supporting animal shelters and adoption centers across New York
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Community service partnerships, such as Beds for Buffalo, where members build beds for children in need
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National Give Movement, contributing to the Bobby Salmon Relief Fund to support agents affected by disasters
These efforts strengthen communities, build friendships, and remind members how rewarding it is to be part of an industry that cares.
Take the Next Step
Ready to get involved? Here’s how to jump in:
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Attend the NextGen Meetup at the Big I New York event, Go Big. It’s the perfect place to connect and get inspired.
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Find your local NextGen NY crew and join their meetups, service projects, and leadership opportunities.
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Participate in the January Coffee Chat, a statewide favorite that kicks off each year with new ideas and connections.
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Reach out to Ashley Engl with your interest or the names of potential members who would like to get involved.
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Follow and engage on social media. Share your chapter’s events, tag your teammates, and help grow the NextGen community online.
“We want new voices and new faces,” Ashley said. “This is your chance to get involved, to lead, and to help shape what the future of Big I New York looks like.”
Your Future Starts with NextGen
NextGen NY isn’t just a group; it is a movement of young professionals who are determined to grow their careers, make meaningful connections, and give back along the way.
You’ll find mentors, friends, and experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. You’ll also gain a front-row seat to how exciting and fulfilling this industry can be when you are part of something bigger.
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to get more involved in Big I New York, this is it.
Join NextGen NY today.
Find your community. Build your network. Shape your future.