.jpeg)
.png)
.png)
%20(1).jpg)
Being part of the inaugural cohort of Melo fellows has been nothing short of exhilarating. When I first embarked on this journey, I had no idea what lay ahead or what I was stepping into. But now, as I reflect on the continuous stream of events, encounters with diverse individuals, and engaging conversations, I realize how this experience has broadened my horizons.In this program, I've had the privilege of rubbing shoulders with esteemed leaders from various sectors, including reputable figures in our society and prominent players in big corporations. Listening to their fireside chats and hearing about their genuine aspirations and visions has ignited a spark within me. It has reminded me to dream big, and not allow limiting beliefs to hold me back. The Melo program has instilled in me the importance of bringing lofty visions into reality, pushing boundaries, and embracing a beta mindset. It has taught me to constantly iterate my thoughts, challenge myself, and collaborate with others to bring ideas to fruition.Moreover, the program has shed light on the extraordinary fluidity and versatility of the human brain. It has encouraged us to tap into various resources to enhance the impact of our endeavors. During the ideation process, we were urged to unleash our creativity, engaging in spirited back-and-forth conversations with founders and seeking support from diverse sources. The growth that the Melo program offers is not easily quantifiable, as it is not a transformation that happens overnight. Rather, it is akin to planting a seed in our minds, which allows for infinite possibilities to blossom.One aspect of this program that shouldn't be overlooked is the expansion and strengthening of our thought processes. The impact of this growth is long-lasting, shaping our perspectives and opening doors to new ideas and ways of thinking.I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of Melo that shares my drive and passion. Together, we are creating a supportive community where innovation, collaboration, and personal growth thrive.
Having the chance to meet and exchange ideas with "very important" and powerful people, when I am just a small potato. Get to feel empowered and know that my voice is heard. I am also surprised by the authenticity, sincerity, and openness that these leaders displayed.
Before I was very reserved (maybe still am), but I become more willing to share my views and thoughts with others. Through Melo, I also realized the importance of having or creating an atmosphere and platform that can foster genuine exchange, where people can truly express themselves while listening to others. In terms of technical skills, I think I have gained more experience in driving a project of my own, and in aligning the interests and concerns of different parties.
The most exciting part of my Melo journey was interacting with the fellows from other teams as each of our projects progressed. Since all of the teams were assigned different themes and CEOs, I was always eager to hear from other fellows' experiences, from hilarious interactions they had with leaders to frustrating obstacles they had to navigate around - every time the group sharing session concluded, I was always left with a awe of what my peers have accomplished and a heightened sense of giddiness for the opportunities our team had coming.
Thank you Project Melo for bringing me valuable opportunities to meet and connect with our futuremakers through reverse mentoring. As the perfect wrap-up for everyone’s effort, I’m eagerly anticipating the launch of our Fellows’ “21-Day Challenge Climate Change” Happy Meal book this June! Looking ahead, I cannot wait to connect with more young friends and be inspired by their new ideas and creativity. Together, we can drive positive change for Hong Kong and envision a brighter future for all!
“It is a meaningful program that offers young people here in Hong Kong the chance to take part in an experimental growth journey through a number of leading businesses and people across the city.”
“This is truly a community effort....And I’m honored to be part of this new initiative.Yes, there are challenges ahead, for both our students and corporates... but I remain confident that our Melo Fellows and Peers together with the CEOs can learn from each other how best to weather the uncharted journey ahead.”
Who can apply?
Any full-time university undergraduates from these six universities can apply - Baptist U, City U, Chinese U, HKU, HKUST, and PolyU. We will select 20 Melo Fellows from this pool of applicants. Our selection criteria is simple - we are looking for high calibre students with a passion and track record of leadership and impact on the society. We look for authentic stories and real passion.
The program will kick off at the end of January 2025 and end with a graduation in June 2025. The Fellowship has two main components - Co-Creation and Joint Discovery.
In Co-Creation, 20 Melo Fellows will be divided into 5 teams of 4. Each team will be paired with two leading CEOs / social leaders. Each will work towards a proposal on delivering the most impact on their topic for Hong Kong society. One of the leading region VC firms and its managing partner will seed one or more of their proposed programs for implementation.
In Joint Discovery, these are events for the entire fellowship where Melo Fellows will experience and learn from leaders of our society on a few key themes, in the most intimate and engaging way.
In terms of time commitment, each Fellow will be asked to:
Melo Fellows will go through a one-of-a-kind journey of learning and mindset growth. They will learn hard and soft skills and have direct exposure to leading CEOs, social leaders and thought leaders. The Fellowship includes project based learning as well as group-based interactive learning.
For the first time ever, two Fellows will be selected and be awarded the SHK x Melo Scholarship, which will cover the full tuition fee of the remaining years of undergraduate studies of the awardee.
1. Background details
Your name, mobile number, email contact and your year and degree in HKUST.
2. Choose a topic
Choose from one of the five themes we listed as your preferred topic of interest or you can write to us what one other topic you are interested in
3. Tell us your story
Share why you want to join this program and why you are passionate about the topic you choose in one of three formats (A 500-word essay, a 90-second video, or a PowerPoint of fewer than 10 slides). We care a lot about authenticity. We would love to hear stories that come from your personal experience.
