BCMG Insurance Brokers has established a memorial scholarship in honour of the late insurance industry stalwart, Errol Ziadie.

He was a prominent figure in the industry and served in many capacities that advanced the industry over the course of almost three decades. The brokerage hopes to highlight and acknowledge the work of Ziadie, who was also integral in the company’s formation when he assisted with the merger between Billy Craig and Maritime General Insurance Brokers in 2020. Ziadie was also instrumental in the establishment of the College of Insurance and Professional Studies (CIPS), where the scholarship will be tenable.

BCMG CEO, Thomas Smith, said the launch of the scholarship is a fitting way to celebrate the life and work of his colleague and friend.

“I am so happy that we have been able to launch this scholarship in honour of this phenomenal man. Ziadie has had a tremendous impact on not only the insurance sector but also on the lives of hundreds of people.  He was dearly loved as a husband, father, mentor, friend and business partner but we wanted to acknowledge his contribution in a more lasting way,” he said.

Smith also highlighted Ziadie’s guidance which allowed him and executive chairman, William Craig, to create a successful company which is now one of the top five insurance brokerages in Jamaica.

“Errol was an integral part of the merger discussions, and his warning to William and myself was to make sure that we protected the integrity of what had been created by both organisations and not to disappoint him in what we do,” he said, adding, “his vast experience in business and insurance made his input in the process so vital, and what we have today after a year of operation is a testament to this icon.”

Smith was speaking at the official scholarship launch ceremony last Thursday at the Kingston Cricket Club.

The $225,000 scholarship will cover the full tuition for the Certified Insurance Technician Course offered by the College of Insurance and Professional Studies (CIPS), formerly known as the Insurance College of Jamaica (ICOJ).  Insurance law, marketing, personal insurance, principles and practice of reinsurance, risk and insurance, and business environment are among the modules covered in the course. Applications for the scholarship close at the end of August. Entry requirements include 4 CXC subjects, including Mathematics and English.

CIPS General Manager, Annette Robotham said she is pleased to be working with BCMG on the initiative given the connection that both organisations have with Ziadie. He was involved in the formation of CIPS and in the acquisition of its current premises.  Robotham also urged persons to take advantage of the scholarship opportunity.

“The insurance industry provides many opportunities for success and growth, so I must encourage persons who are interested in the field to apply and take their careers to the next level. We will always need more qualified insurance technicians who are ready to make their contribution to Jamaica’s growth and development,” she said.

Meanwhile, Sharon Donaldson, CEO of General Accident Insurance Company, said she is pleased with BCMG’s move to honour Ziadie who she described as her mentor and friend.

“He was always willing to lend a shoulder to lean on and was never too busy to assist. In fact, his mentorship provided me with the insightful guidance I needed to move forward in my career. He helped me to hone my corporate management skills and taught me the importance of emotional intelligence,” remarked Donaldson.

“So I am happy that BCMG has taken the decision to celebrate and commemorate the life of Errol Ziadie with the launch of this scholarship. And although it will not bring him back, it will be another of his outstanding legacies,” she continued.

BCMG Insurance Brokers invites persons who are interested in the insurance industry to apply for the scholarship. In the meantime, the brokerage hopes to continue revolutionising the industry and making it truly a competitive playing field.