The Right Room Changes Everything

Some of life's most important lessons start in conversation with the people shaping the world.

The Right Room Changes Everything

About The Programme

PruNextGen Rising Circle is a structured youth leadership programme by Prudential, in partnership with SCMP Learn, designed for students aged 13 to 17.

Through guided workshops, authentic conversations with industry leaders, and reflective storytelling, students build the confidence, clarity, and communication skills to lead in a changing world. No prior experience in public speaking or debate is required.

Meet The Leaders

Rising Circle is built around direct access to senior executives across industries, taking students beyond the classroom walls and into the real business world. They don't just hear from leaders. They engage, question, and walk away with first-hand insights that no textbook can ever replicate.

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Lawrence Lam
Chief Executive Officer, Prudential Hong Kong Limited

Leading one of Hong Kong’s most trusted insurers, driving customer, digital and health transformation, with extensive experience in financial services industry.

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Ang Jin
Chief Growth Officer
South China Morning Post

Two decades in media, tech, and investment banking; a sharp lens on how strategic storytelling, business transformation, and growth intersect. 

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Venetia Lee
AlipayHK CEO and Ant International Greater China General Manager

Driving major fintech and cross-border payment transformation globally and across Greater China with extensive global tech and finance leadership experience.

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Ethan Lin
Co-founder & Chief Executive Officer, Klook

From investment banking to building one of Asia’s most successful global travel experiences platform.

Meet The Coaches

Two expert coaches design and lead the skill-building masterclasses, equipping students with the critical thinking and communication tools they need before entering the room with leaders.

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Peter Chan
Founder of TreeholeHK

Think Forward Workshop

TreeholeHK founder & YouTuber making psychology accessible. His workshop builds students' clarity, emotional intelligence.

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Gary Lo
Managing Director and Principal Instructor of Glo Consulting

Speak Forward Workshop

TEDx speaker and Glo Consulting founder Gary equips students with practical tools to articulate ideas with confidence.

Every Step Is Earned

Rising Circle is a structured four-stage journey. Each stage builds on the last, taking students from a 200-word submission, to speaking on stage, earning an official the certificate, and potentially published in SCMP Young Post. Top performers may even earn a pathway to the StoryJam by SCMP (formerly known as STANCE), a storytelling competition for global youth organised by SCMP Learn.

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    Stage 1 — Show The Potential: 6 Jul – 4 Aug 2026

    Submit a 200-word piece on a defined topic. Pass the Prudential and SCMP selection panel. Earn your place.

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    Stage 2 — Build The Foundation: 12 & 19 Sep 2026

    Master critical thinking and executive presentation in two intensive masterclasses.

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    Stage 3 — Meet The Leaders: 10 Oct 2026

    Enter the room. Take part in facilitated group conversations with industry leaders across finance, media, and tech.

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    Stage 4 — Command The Stage: 7 Nov 2026

    Present on stage at the Closing Ceremony, sharing key insights from the journey in front of peers and parents. All participants will receive a co-branded certificate in recognition of their achievement.

How to Apply

  • Eligibility:
    Open to teens aged 13 to 17 of existing Prudential Hong Kong Limited customers. 

  • Submission:
    Applications must be submitted by a parent or legal guardian, either directly or through nomination by a Prudential financial consultant. 

  • Requirement:
    Submit a 200-word English writing piece on the defined topic. 

  • Application period:
    From now until 4 August 2026.
     
  • Results notification:
    Sent via parent or guardian email between 20 – 25 August 2026.
How to apply

Limited places available — Secure this valuable opportunity for your child to grow and thrive.

Rising Circle welcomes only 60 participants. Whether you are a student ready to find your voice or a parent looking for a truly meaningful experience for your child, apply now or contact your financial consultant to find out more.

Terms and conditions apply. Please click here for details.