The most exhilarating aspect is witnessing the transformation of our ideas into tangible actions. I never anticipated that our perspectives would hold such immense value, and I am genuinely grateful for it. Our CEOs, founders, and staff consistently demonstrate their recognition of our worth and contributions. I am not merely collaborating on a project with the CEOs, but also co-creating the Melo Program alongside the participants. Witnessing the tremendous growth and expansion of Project Melo within a span of fewer than five years fills me with immense pride.Thanks to Project Melo, I have gained a newfound confidence in expressing my opinions. Prior to joining the program, I would never have the courage to share my fledgling thoughts in front of such influential leaders. Moreover, I have become more at ease when faced with conflicting ideas. Previously, I would have been terrified of any disagreements within a group, but now I perceive them as opportunities for my team to better identify our needs and realign our course.
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformedby the renewing of your mind.
The most exciting part of my Melo journey was the McDonald's experience because we had the opportunity to learn about leadership skills in such an interesting experience with the explorer theme. It was such a fun experience able to listen to the different talks given by McDonald's and also have a great time mingling with Melo peers and fellows.
I do not really recognize my growth. However, I was able to speak up to CEOs and other people more confidently and articulate ideas more clearly. Also, I've learned how to write and propose a business deck throughout this process. Also, I've just been inspired by the different keynote speakers, CEOs, founders, and fellows by their passion for what they are working on and their beliefs.
In my Melo journey, the most exciting part is definitely about the amazing, talented and wonderful people here. I am really grateful that Melo provides me with the precious opportunity to chat with industry leaders, other melo fellows and melo social members. I truly treasure every single genuine conversation with them, as there are so many things I could learn from them. Reflecting on my Melo journey, I was surprised that we had explored so many themes together, such as art and culture, leadership and our home - Hong Kong. It really opened my eyes to new perspectives, encouraging me to appreciate the significance of art and culture, which I would not do in the past. In addition, I learnt from the industry leaders about what leadership is, which helps me to become a future leader. In conclusion, it is my honour to be part of the Melo community, where I can grow along the journey.
“I am deeply impressed by the organisers’ commitment to create a differentiated program for Youth. I hope all Melo students always believe in themselves and the society, and always be brave to think differently and take actions.”
“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.”
"Really well organised conference. Superb contents, articulate speakers, fantastic venue, noble aim. Well done. Congratulations."
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.