In collaboration with International Enterprise(IE) Singapore, Business China launched Young Leaders Programme(YLP), a programme which aims to grow a pool of young enthusiastic Singaporeans who are prepared for careers in dynamic China.
The launch of YLP was held in conjunction with Business China Spring Reception on 16 February 2010. The event was graced by Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong.
In welcoming the distinguished guests, Chairman of Business China, Mr Chua Thian Poh said, “This immersion allows them to understand China’s social and business etiquette and get a headstart in their career in China. We are very pleased to have received Senior Minister Goh’s encouragement in the launching process of YLP.”
Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong also applauded the programme at his address, “Business China’s launch of the Young Leaders Programme today is highly commendable as it complements the efforts of the public sector in cultivating more bilingual and bicultural talents to spread our wings in China.”
The programme is open to recent local graduates who are Singaporeans & Singapore Permanent Residents, with less than 1 year of work experience. Successful applicants are offered the opportunity to go for a 6-18 months mentor-led attachment in China.
To date, 8 companies have joined the programme offering 14 positions in various parts of China.
The companies are: AnnAik Limited, BreadTalk Group Limited, CapitaLand Limited, EnGro Corporation Limited, Hi-P International Limited, Keppel Land International Limited, Singapore Technologies Engineering Limited and Yanlord Land Group Limited.
Positions offered include architect, business development executive, engineer project coordinator and more.
YLP has attracted more than 80 applicants even before its official launch. One of the successful applicants is 24 year old Genie Quek. She will be starting training at ST Electronics as Business Development Executive.
The SMU graduate said, “By joining Business China Young Leaders Programme, (it) enables me to be attached in China to gain even more exposure and experiences by learning each other’s strengths, interacting with people with diverse cultures, engaging long-lasting relationships with them and hoping to progress in my career there in future.”
Trainees like Genie will receive monthly allowance during the attachment, they will also attend a pre-attachment induction course and post-attachment sharing session. Other distinctive features of YLP include buddy support and networking sessions in China. These will enable the trainees to acquire valuable work, live and play experience during their stay.
At the same time, YLP also help Singapore-based companies in building a China-ready workforce. Corporate members of Business China participating in YLP will enjoy significant funding support.
The joyous occasion was attended by about 250 guests including donors, board, members and working partners of Business China, diplomats and members of Singapore Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China (SingCham). To usher in the year of the Tiger, guests were treated to an evening of performances by The Percussion Assembly and sumptuous buffet spread.