Four students have received grants to help them push for careers in the financial services industry, under a new scheme set up in memory of a popular casualty underwriter.Three Berkeley Institute students and one from CedarBridge Academy will all receive airfare, accommodation, transport connections and meals for a two-week internship in London.Berkeley S3 student Arianna Ball, Berkeley S4 students Tomisha Goater and Michelle Onyia and CedarBridge S3 student Rajah Steede were the winners of the first Christian Thunhurst Award, announced by the Bermuda Education Network and Platinum Underwriters Bermuda.The award is made possible by a multiyear grant of $5,000 per annum from Platinum Bermuda, and donations from former friends and colleagues of Mr Thunhurst, a casualty underwriter for Platinum Bermuda and chairman of Under 35s Reinsurers who died suddenly in Bermuda five years ago aged 34.Mr Thunhurst was described as an exuberant networker and dedicated family man who was always looking for an opportunity to build relationships and business contacts.Becky Ausenda, executive director of BEN said: “We’ve chosen to honour Christian’s memory by creating an opportunity for Bermudian students to visit the London insurance market as we think he would have liked to help students pursue a career in underwriting.”Christian’s wife Nicola said: “This award is a truly appropriate and excellent legacy for Christian.“He so loved Bermuda and had thrown himself wholeheartedly into starting to be a part of both the local and expat communities in our short time there.“From the day we landed we referred to Bermuda as home, as that’s what it felt like.“Christian loved his job and understood how companies like his, as well as offering their existing employees from the UK and the US great and new experiences, could also open up wonderful career opportunities for young Bermudians.”Robert Porter, CEO at Platinum Bermuda, said: “We are pleased in the name of Christian Thunhurst to support the work of the Bermuda Education Network in the development and training of young Bermudians.”Gavin Collery, CFO at Platinum Bermuda, added: “The scholarship award in Christian’s name is a fitting tribute to an exemplary member of our industry.”The award will be presented annually to four recipients who are interested in pursuing careers in the financial services industry.Applicants are considered based on their previous participation in BEN’s math springboard programme and their proven desire to work towards a career in this industry.Recipients will take part in work-shadow with Bermuda insurance company offices in London. They will also get an introduction to Lloyd’s of London and to London college life.Education Minister Dame Jennifer Smith said: “I am delighted to learn of the introduction of the [Christian Thunhurst Award].“We welcome this new and exciting addition to the opportunities offered our students.“Congratulations to the first winners of this award and a heartfelt thank you to the Bermuda Education Network and Platinum Underwriters Bermuda.”Shadow Minister Grant Gibbons said: “I would like to congratulate and thank the Bermuda Education Network and Platinum Underwriters Bermuda, Limited, for establishing the Christian Thunhurst Award.“These generous internships provide a wonderful opportunity for young Bermudians interested in pursuing careers in financial services.”