The Young Professionals Development Programme (YPDP) is a high-profile training opportunity provided by the British Chamber of Commerce in China.
Now in its eighth iteration, this fellowship programme aims to elevate young professionals' key employability skills, develop UK-China relations, and benefit both businesses and their emerging young talent.
Over 200 alumni from across the world have participated in this exclusive programme, providing them with tailored, individualised mentorship from leaders of some of the UK's biggest businesses in China.
Fellows will take part in enriching, interactive workshops led by hand-selected mentors from a wide range of industries, all of whom are senior leaders with tremendous expertise in their fields. The themes selected for the workshops focus on the key skills required for the next generation of young professionals.
Programme Details
This year's programme will facilitate an enriching, impactful experience that provides Fellows with ample opportunity to develop professionally, build connections, and celebrate achievement.
While this year's programme is yet to be finalised, participants can expect comprehensive training in areas such as entrepreneurship, risk management, creative thinking, communications skills, and much more. Training in previous years was provided by companies across the British Chamber network, including The Economist Group, Shell China, APCO Worldwide, LinkedIn, Brunswick, Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business, LAVA Beijing, Venture Education, and more.
Throughout the programme, there will be a variety of BCCC networking events that Fellows are invited to attend where they will have the opportunity to meet other young professionals and engage with industry leaders. Each workshop will be guided by an experienced mentor team and will explore an essential employability skill. The graduation ceremony will draw the programme to a close with keynote speeches, a certificate ceremony, and congratulations to all involved.
This year, sessions will take place on Wednesday evenings between 7pm and 9pm, from 20th August to 24th September.
Fellow Requirements
Fellows must meet the following criteria in order to participate in YPDP 2025:
- Aged 21-34
- Comfortable communicating in English
- Committed to attending all events. Fellows must attend at least four workshops to graduate the programme.
Programme Fee
RMB 6,000 per Fellow. This fee includes entry to all sessions of YPDP 2024, individual membership of the British Chamber until the end of 2025, and a number of social events during the programme.
The YPDP 2025 cohort is limited to 50 Fellows. We encourage you to apply early.
To express interest and discuss the programme further, feel free to email Jack Allen, Programme Coordinator, at jack.allen@britishchamber.cn for an introductory chat.
Registration Process
Each company has the chance to register up to 5 placements on the programme for employees who meet the Fellow criteria. Companies are free to choose how Fellows are selected, though we suggest running an internal application process or nominating team members who would most benefit from and value this professional development opportunity. In addition, we encourage a diverse selection of fellows who will be able to share their unique perspectives and who are highly motivated to develop their knowledge, skills, and network.
Individuals are also invited to register themselves for the programme.
Scholarships
BritCham is offering two full scholarships for YPDP 2025!
These scholarships will be granted to exceptional candidates who have relevant experience in UK-China relations, and who we feel would make an excellent contribution to the programme. Tell us about your experience in UK-China relations and your motivation to join the Young Professionals Development Programme. Applications can be found below, and are due by Thursday 31st July at 11:59pm.
