Three major players in the insurance sector – SCOR, Howden, and Charles Taylor – have teamed up to launch Project INmersAbility, a bold new initiative aimed at boosting the employment of people with disabilities (PWDs) within Singapore’s general insurance industry. The programme was developed in response to the slow pace at which the sector has been hiring PWDs and to raise awareness about the valuable roles that people with disabilities can play in the insurance industry.
A recent study by Singapore Management University (SMU) reveals that over half of respondents believe that workplaces in Singapore are not sufficiently accessible for individuals with disabilities. The Engage.Me. study, led by SMU principal lecturer Rosie Ching, surveyed more than 7,200 individuals, including both people with disabilities and those who work or volunteer with them. The findings underscore the significant physical, technological, and social barriers that still prevent PWDs from fully participating in the workplace.
Project INmersAbility is a pioneering programme in Singapore’s insurance sector designed to enhance disability inclusion. The initiative provides PWDs with multi-company work placements, allowing participants to gain experience in three different roles: broker, carrier, and adjuster. The structure aims to offer participants a comprehensive understanding of the insurance value chain, while also showcasing the variety of roles available to PWDs within the industry.
Programme Structure and Participant Experience
The six-month programme offers a rotational placement, where participants gain hands-on experience in different roles across the industry. Justin Wong, who was selected as the first participant, was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) at a young age. Despite these challenges, Justin holds a diploma in Financial Technology and has previous experience in fraud analysis and professional development.
During the programme, Justin has worked with Howden’s claims and strategic solutions teams, contributed to SCOR’s finance department, and is currently completing his final rotation with Charles Taylor’s property and casualty and natural resources adjusting teams. Justin plans to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Sydney in early 2026.
Reflecting on his experience, Justin said: “Being part of Project INmersAbility has shown me how I can contribute to the industry. Each rotation has taught me valuable lessons not just about the workplace, but also about teamwork, people, and self-confidence. I hope my story inspires others with disabilities and neurodiversity to see that there is a place for them in insurance and beyond.”
Business Leaders Share Views on Inclusion
Leaders from the three participating organisations have shared their thoughts on the impact of disability inclusion. Adil Aida, Chief Financial Officer at SCOR Asia-Pacific, stated, “Disability inclusion is a strategic advantage that requires deliberate action. By embracing diverse talent, we gain fresh perspectives that challenge the status quo and make our business more resilient. Project INmersAbility is proof that meaningful inclusion not only changes an individual’s career, but it transforms company culture.”
Jenny Lim, CEO of Howden Singapore, added, “Project INmersAbility was created with clear goals – to show the disability community that insurance is an industry where they can thrive, to gain firsthand experience working alongside PWDs, and to promote inclusive hiring across our industry. Justin’s journey has demonstrated that inclusion is not just about providing opportunity; it’s about building a stronger, more diverse industry for everyone.”
Meanwhile, Stephen Thorpe, Managing Director for Asia & the Middle East at Charles Taylor, highlighted the ongoing talent shortage within insurance adjusting and the untapped potential of PWDs to help fill this gap. “The insurance industry in Singapore is facing a talent crunch, especially within adjusting. However, there is a significant pool of capable PWD professionals who are currently underrepresented. Project INmersAbility has proven that with the right support, PWDs can excel and bring fresh insights to the sector.”
The initiative will culminate in an industry event hosted by SCOR on 10 December, where the three partners will share their experiences and discuss similar initiatives within the insurance sector.