Bermuda's next generation of professionals for the insurance-linked securities market is already in the pipeline, a conference heard.

Students from the Bermuda College were in the audience at ILS Bermuda Convergence 2026 at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club and were introduced to the international audience of delegates.

In making the introduction, Victoria Cunningham, executive director, Bermuda Foundation for Insurance Studies, and, education lead for ILS Bermuda, commented: “We have seen probably over 100 students come through Bermuda College and more recently, some career shifters.

“This year, we have 12 students studying business administration and one studying actuarial science through the college.

“We've got four students who are (studying with) Mount St Vincent University, (Halifax, Nova Scotia) online. They graduated Bermuda College last year doing their studies online and they have come into this programme. And we have two career shifters who are looking for their next opportunity.”

Alex Conyers, senior vice-president at Neuberger and vice-chair of ILS Bermuda stated: “Every market depends on a pipeline of people. Bermuda's ILS market has grown quickly and its future depends on bringing in new talent as well as new capital.

“That is why the education programme is part of Convergence. It's an investment in the people who will need to take on the challenges of this market in ten years and beyond.”

Ms Cunningham said the programme is always on the hunt for companies willing to help with internships, scholarships, mentorships and other forms of assistance.

A statement from ILS Bermuda said Bermuda College students who successfully completed the 2025-26 ILS Bermuda College Programme, earning the programme’s second-ever Completion Certificate.

The initiative combines real-world experience, professional development, and industry mentorship to help young students forge pathways into the island’s risk industry.

The certificate recognises outstanding achievement in insurance education and career readiness.

Students recognised in this year’s cohort are: Ayinde Bulford, Rickai Burrows, Tiye Holmes, Tre McCallan, Akiiki Nyabongo, Jordan Parker, Cyannah Pereira, Christopher Pitcher, Sydney Santos, Deontae Scott, Margarida Simas, Camille Stephens and J’Auri Talbot.

To earn the Certificate of Completion, students undertook a six-module programme that included training in business etiquette and professional conduct, one-on-one mentorship, participation at the ILS Convergence conference, development of résumés, LinkedIn profiles and social media presence, interview preparation through mock interview sessions, and strategies for applying to scholarships and industry internships.

Some students enjoyed summer internships with the Bermuda Monetary Authority, Hiscox ILS, Marsh Management Services, Price Forbes Re, Chubb and Liberty Mutual.

Student feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the experience as transformative, the statement said.

“We believe in creating access, confidence and opportunity for Bermuda’s young people,” said Hanni Ali, chairman of ILS Bermuda.

“At the heart of our education initiatives are the strong relationships we build with students, mentors, and industry partners. We are immensely proud of this year’s graduates and thankful to the organisations that have once again offered internships, providing students with valuable opportunities to develop their knowledge and experience within the industry.”

ILS Bermuda is accepting expressions of interest for the 2026-27 ILS Bermuda College Programme.