Humble start, elite success

Few would have imagined that a humble little girl from the cool hills of Manchester in Jamaica would one day become the number-one ranked insurance agent within one of the most prestigious agencies in the United States (US).

Today, Tona-Lee Lewis Wright’s success in the insurance industry reflects a rare combination of strategic innovation, resilience, and measurable excellence.

Wright did not initially plan to pursue a career in insurance.

“In 2016 my pastor did a series about living in your purpose,” Wright recalled. “At the time, I had applied to join the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) because my dream had always been to work in service and make a positive impact in people’s lives.”

After not receiving a call back from the JCF, Wright spent time in prayer and reflection about her next step.

“During that period of searching, I received a call for an interview for a career in insurance. Honestly, I did not even know what I was getting myself into,” she said. “But the recruiting manager kept telling me during the interview that I was going to do very well in the industry.”

LASTING IMPRESSION

Those words left a lasting impression.

“He saw something in me that I did not yet see in myself. That encouragement motivated me, and I will always be grateful for the opportunity.”

What began as a leap of faith soon evolved into a remarkable career.

After nearly a decade of distinguished service in Jamaica’s insurance sector, Wright made the bold decision to migrate to the United States to expand her professional impact. She joined Leaders Financial Group, a leading agency within one of the most recognised final expense insurance organisations in the US.

In less than two years, Wright rose to become the company’s top-ranked agent, breaking a 62-year production record and generating more than $584,000 in annual premium production in 2025 alone, representing 738 final expense insurance applications written within that same period.

Her exceptional performance and leadership have also been recognised symbolically within her organisation. Wright was presented with a Samurai sword, an honour given to recognise individuals who display remarkable characteristics, such as discipline, resilience, strategic focus, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Her success is far from accidental. Wright is known internally for developing and refining field efficiency strategies that have improved agent productivity and client acquisition processes within her agency. In addition to her personal production achievements, she actively mentors and trains newer agents, contributing to broader organisational growth and performance.

A licensed insurance professional across multiple US states, Wright has earned recognition within elite professional circles, including qualification for the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) and Court of the Table, distinctions reserved for top-performing insurance producers worldwide.

“I migrated because I saw an opportunity to elevate what I love doing to an international level,” Wright explained. “Consistency, adaptability, and the willingness to unlearn and relearn have been central to my success.”

Widely regarded within her organisation as a benchmark for production excellence in final expense insurance, Wright continues to position herself as both a high-performing producer and an industry educator. Her work has positively impacted thousands of families across local and international markets, reinforcing her commitment to professional excellence and service.

As a proud representative of Jamaica on the international stage, Wright remains committed to raising standards in the insurance profession while inspiring the next generation of globally minded professionals.

Reflecting on her journey, Wright often shares the principles that guide her career.

“Success is not final. Failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.

“It is never easy to be consistently great, but it is far easier to become great at being consistent.

“Set goals that will stretch your own imagination and stay excited about your career.

“Be ready to unlearn and relearn, because what you knew yesterday may not be what takes you forward tomorrow.

“There is no ‘I’ll try.’ You either do, or you don’t.

“Prayer and work conquer all.”