A career in logistics and international shipping was what Nicholas Juruba anticipated when he studied at the Caribbean Maritime University, and even at his graduation in 2019, that future remained within reach.

However, his trajectory shifted in 2021 when an opportunity at the JN Group led him into customer service. He joined the JN Member Care Centre — operated by Total Credit Services — a move that, although unexpected, proved instrumental in shaping his path.

There, he sharpened his ability to connect with people and laid the groundwork for his transition to the life insurance industry at JN Life Insurance, another turn that, in hindsight, probably stands as the most unexpected chapter of his journey yet.

Although he never envisioned a career in the financial industry, particularly in the insurance sector, Juruba has embraced his role, supporting people and families to secure their futures.

Since joining JN Life Insurance in 2023, he has steadily progressed from new business officer to senior new business officer, reflecting both his dedication and the growing impact of his work.

“I feel very good knowing I am a part of this organisation,” he shared, noting that each day on the job is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life.

“I love talking, I love meeting new people, I love customer service, and I love helping people,” he added.

In his role, he supports a team in overseeing applications, ensuring that each case is carefully assessed, accurately processed and guided smoothly through the underwriting process. He serves as a key link between clients, advisors and internal teams, helping to translate applications into approved policies that offer financial protection and peace of mind.

“We review cases to ensure each application aligns with the supporting documents, including identification and proof of address. We also prepare the client schedules, upload the documents and properly file them so that other teams have the necessary access to proceed,” he said.

His strong work ethic, customer-centric focus and keen attention to detail, combined with his strategic approach to improving processes, have distinguished him as a standout performer at the company.

These qualities, along with his emerging leadership, earned him the top honour of Employee of the Year for 2025, which he received at the JN Life Insurance Staff Awards, held in the first quarter of 2026.

Juruba said being named Employee of the Year marks a significant milestone in his career. However, the real reward lies in the everyday impact of the work done alongside his colleagues.

Accepting the award, he emphasised the team effort behind the recognition, noting that it “reflects our collective efforts to protect and empower our communities through life insurance”.

He admitted the award came as a surprise, as he did not consider his contributions to be as impactful as others, even while consistently delivering on his responsibilities.

“I wasn’t expecting it. I’m usually at my desk focused on my work and not really out there socialising, but I was told other managers selected me, so I believe the little talks we’ve shared and what I’ve been doing truly made an impact,” he said.

Outside the office, Juruba feeds his love for travelling and interest in real estate. Born and raised in Stony Hill, St Andrew, he also has a passion for farming, which dates back to his high school years.

In 2014, while attending Oberlin High School, he emerged as a standout member of the Jamaica 4-H Clubs, earning the distinction of Boy of the Year. After high school, he also gained membership in the Lawrence Tavern 4-H Club in St Andrew, and served as vice-president for a period.

Now at age 28, he spends his time increasingly balancing those personal interests with his professional growth, all while being a big brother to six siblings.

“I want to see how far I can go in this industry and at JN Life Insurance,” he said, noting that he has been actively upskilling, having recently completed a supervisory management course at the University College of the Caribbean (UCC) in Kingston, and now pursuing a strategic management course at that institution.

“JN Life Insurance is young, but I know we’re going to continue to grow, make more memories and create more opportunities for our clients. I’m excited to see what is next for me and this company,” he said.

Acknowledging his achievements and his contribution to a strong team culture, Susan Holness, chief of new business and underwriting at JN Life Insurance, said: “I am thrilled that Nicholas has been named Employee of the Year,” noting that his “strong work ethic, steadfast commitment to supporting the entire team and his loyalty to the JN brand make him stand out among his peers.”

Echoing those sentiments, Ottieno Channer, assistant manager in the new business and underwriting department, shared that he is a very reliable team member who always displays a willing and winning attitude.

“Nicholas shows an unwavering commitment to his work and often goes beyond the call of duty to get things done. He embodies the values of JN Life and the wider JN Group,” he said.