A young law and economics student has won a $25,000 scholarship from an insurance firm.

Ciara Burrows, who is studying at the University of Waterloo in Canada, was given the award by Hamilton Insurance Group.

The company said Ms Burrows had impressed the community giving committee not only with her academic record, but also with her commitment to social causes and her community involvement.

The funds will help to support Ms Burrows in her final year of study.

Pina Albo, Hamilton chief executive, said: “She’s a remarkable young woman who, in spite of a number of adversities, has excelled personally and academically.

“We’re going to be watching her progress with great interest and have no doubt she will continue to achieve excellence in all she does.”

Ms Burrows added: “I had the honour of meeting Ms Albo after I heard I’d been awarded the Hamilton scholarship and was so impressed with her interest in what I’m doing.

“Her career path is the one I want to pursue. She started as a lawyer and then moved into the insurance industry. That’s my goal, too, and I’m so thankful to Hamilton for helping me to pursue my dream.”

Ms Burrows is a former head girl at Saltus Grammar School and was valedictorian with distinction in her graduation class.

She was appointed to the Dean’s List with a GPA of 4.0 out of 4.0 in her last term at university.

Ms Burrows is also an international student volunteer and a member of several university clubs.