Supporting Refugees to Rebuild their Lives Through Education
At the AXA Foundation for Human Progress, we firmly believe that education, language, and social ties are fundamental to long-term inclusion. This conviction underpins our partnership with Association Pierre Claver, a Paris-based organization founded in 2008 that welcomes and supports statutorily recognized refugees.
The association offers intensive French courses, academic training, social and legal support, and a rich cultural program. Its goal is clear: help refugees rebuild an autonomous life in France through study, language, culture, and meaningful human connections.
Pierre Claver’s philosophy resonates strongly with our values. Refugees are not reduced to their status; they are first and foremost students, professionals, parents, and citizens with potential. The organization prioritizes high expectations and trust over a purely aid-based approach, placing human encounters and mutual exchange at the core. Refugees, volunteers, host families, students, and professionals come together and create lasting bonds that foster autonomy, employment, and civic engagement.
A Long-Term Partnership Rooted in Mentoring and Opportunity
For over ten years, we have stood alongside Association Pierre Claver. Our partnership is structured around two main pillars:
Scholarships financed by AXA for refugee students selected by the association.
Mentoring provided by AXA employees, offering one-on-one support, professional guidance, networks, and career advice.
Since 2015, over 150 students have benefited from this support, resuming demanding studies in fields such as engineering, health, research, and craftsmanship. Many had their paths interrupted by war or forced exile; together, we help them rebuild their trajectories and open new perspectives in France.
This collaboration is vital because it addresses a key challenge: the sustainable inclusion of refugees through education and access to employment. It also actively engages our employees through mentoring, volunteering, and participation in events. For the AXA Foundation for Human Progress, this partnership exemplifies our ability to commit long term alongside a trusted civil society partner.
Celebrating 10 Years of a Transformative Human Journey
In January 2026, we had the pleasure of celebrating the 10th anniversary of our partnership with Association Pierre Claver at AXA’s Paris headquarters, as part of AXA’s Mentoring Month. Surrounded by AXA colleagues, mentors, and beneficiaries of the association, we shared powerful moments filled with emotion and hope.
On this occasion, we also announced the publication of “Autres visages, autres mains”, a book of portraits by photographer Hannah Assouline and the association’s founder, Ayyam Sureau. Through striking stories and images, this book offers a window into journeys marked by courage, friendship, and transmission. It reminds us that integration is first and foremost a human adventure—and that diversity deeply enriches our society.
Among the 150 scholarship recipients is Mustafa Ismail, now an AXA employee, who shared his journey on stage. Behind every figure, there are human stories, decisive encounters, and a collective dynamic that helps everyone grow—mentors, mentees, and partners alike.
Through this partnership, we at the AXA Foundation for Human Progress reaffirm our commitment to inclusion, social cohesion, and equal opportunities. Together with Association Pierre Claver, we will continue to support refugees in building their future in France and contributing fully to society.