Asia’s leading insurer has launched its very first corporate-led internship programme in Singapore to help the country’s Gen Z students get ready to take on the world of business in an ever-evolving economy.

AIA Singapore’s 2024 6-week internship programme offers an immersive experience in the financial services industry and world-class corporate exposure, providing them with valuable insights and practical skills that will help them catapult their careers.

Throughout the internship, students will have the chance to learn deep insights from experienced professionals and leaders about the life insurance landscape and AIA’s leadership role in Singapore’s market.

AIA Singapore added that the programme also serves as a dual-track experience where students can gain insights into actual financial planning sessions through first-hand observation with a chance to earn recognized certification, including CMFAS licenses.

The best part of the internship is the opportunity to be mentored by seasoned leaders in the financial services space and the chance to build meaningful connections with co-internes, directions, managers, and AIA executives.

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“This programme addresses their needs by providing valuable skills, mentorship, and a chance to explore a fulfilling career in financial services,” said Alvin Fu, the chief distribution officer of AIA Singapore.

“We're committed to supporting the younger generation and empowering them to thrive in this evolving economy,” the executive added, stressing the need for the next generation to adapt to the future of work.

Aside from first-hand corporate experience, AIA Singapore’s interns will also be involved in the organisation’s corporate social responsibility activities, including tree planting as well as participate in a fun-filled AIA Vitality telematch.

Interns will receive monthly internship allowance and top performers will be recognised with rewards and a letter of recommendation from AIA. 

Building a strong talent pipeline with internships

Internships play a crucial role in ensuring workforce continuity by facilitating knowledge transfer and building a talent pipeline for the future.

Interns work alongside experienced professionals, gaining exposure to the organization's processes, systems, and accumulated industry knowledge. This mentorship-based approach allows for the seamless transfer of valuable institutional knowledge from senior employees to the emerging workforce.

As experienced employees retire or move into different roles, organizations face the risk of losing valuable knowledge and expertise. Internships help mitigate this risk by identifying and training potential successors.

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When interns demonstrate aptitude and potential, companies can offer them full-time positions. This ensures a smooth transition of responsibilities and maintains the continuity of both institutional knowledge and operational efficiency.

Internships also serve as extended job interviews for both parties. Companies get to assess an intern's potential fit for their organization, while interns evaluate whether the company aligns with their career goals. This process allows companies to discover high-potential talent early on and cultivate them into full-time employees.

AIA's Program: Investing in the Future

AIA Singapore's internship program ensures the future of the financial services industry by going beyond the basics.

By offering a holistic experience that includes mentorship, real-world skill development, and exposure to CSR initiatives, AIA is creating a well-rounded foundation for the next generation of financial services professionals. 

This kind of immersive program helps build a resilient talent pool equipped to handle the industry's changing landscape and future challenges. Interns gain not only technical skills but also adaptability, a focus on social responsibility, and a deep understanding of core business values.

Importantly, initiatives like AIA's align with Singapore's larger push for youth development and workforce readiness. By fostering a generation of skilled and motivated professionals, programs like this benefit not only individual companies but the economic resilience of the nation as a whole.

AIA's investment in this program is an investment in the future health and sustainability of Singapore's entire financial services sector.