Allianz Australia and Settlement Services International (SSI) have celebrated their five-year partnership that granted nearly 200 scholarships to help people of refugee backgrounds achieve independence in Australia.

Allianz Australia and SSI celebrated their partnership at the annual Allianz SSI scholarships ceremony, held virtually, where 20 individuals of refugee backgrounds received scholarships.

The scholarship program aims to minimise the financial barriers experienced by refugees and migrants as they participate in the New South Wales (NSW) education system.

To date, the program has rewarded 177 refugee education scholarships, with a combined value of over $400,000. It has also supported 32 refugees into permanent employment with Allianz in various roles across finance, human resources, claims, IT, underwriting, workers’ compensation, and marketing.

“Our relationship with SSI is part of our commitment to continually contribute to an inclusive society. One in which all people – no matter their culture, background, or ability – feel valued. Importantly, one in which individuals have the opportunity to access equal education or progress their careers, and to use their unique skills and reach their full personal or professional goals,” said Allianz Australia managing director Richard Feledy.

This year, the insurer and the organisation allocated over $62,000 (including $50,000 from Allianz) to the 20 awarded individuals – all towards their education.

SSI chief executive officer Violet Roumeliotis commented: “We are proud to mark five years with Allianz, recognising and encouraging the strengths, talent, and resilience of many individuals. Allianz understands that supporting individuals who are refugees is not just about providing material aid and assisting people to survive. It's also about making sure there are opportunities to learn, work and thrive.

“At SSI, it's our mission to support people of refugee background to reach their full potential. The SSI Allianz scholarship program seeks to do this by reducing the financial barriers experienced by refugees as they participate in the education system.

“This year, we were overwhelmed with over 200 applications, with the cohort of recipients ranging from teenagers who aspire to be doctors and teachers, through to a father who is reskilling by pursuing tertiary education. I am always excited that, together with organisations like Allianz, we can help people like these overcome their hurdles and realise their dreams.”