Mumbai, 26 June 2026 –– The Pan-Asia Risk and Insurance Management Association (PARIMA) successfully concluded its Next-Gen Risk Takers Challenge – Mumbai Edition (the Challenge), a dynamic speaking competition designed to empower emerging risk professionals by providing them with a platform to share their insights, experiences, and perspectives with a live audience.
The Challenge attracted strong interest from the local risk community, with eight risk professionals from various industries applying to take part. After a competitive selection process, three finalists were chosen to compete in the finals.
Each finalist was given 15 minutes to present their speech, followed by a live question and answer (Q&A) session where they responded to questions from both the audience and a distinguished panel of judges. The Challenge tested not only their knowledge of risk management, but also their ability to communicate ideas with clarity, confidence, and critical thinking under pressure.
The three finalists who took centre stage were:
- Bhaumik Pandya, Global Manager – Sustainability & ESG at DKSH Holding AG
- Dr. Poonam B. Gilani, Head – Group Insurance at Airtel
- Kritika Bajaj, Senior Manager – Insurance at Cube Highways Transportation Assets and Advisors Private Limited
Following an engaging round of presentations, the judging panel deliberated and ultimately selected Kritika Bajaj as the winner of the Next-Gen Risk Takers Challenge – Mumbai Edition.
“I am honoured to have won this challenge, and I would encourage others not to hesitate to share their stories — not just to win, but to collaborate with fellow risk professionals and learn from their experiences as well,” said Kritika.
The Next-Gen Risk Takers Challenge is proudly supported by QBE Asia as the Title Sponsor, reflecting a shared commitment to supporting the development of the next generation of risk professionals across the region.
“India is a strategically important market for QBE, with a growing community of talented risk professionals. We are proud to support initiatives like the Next-Gen Risk Takers Challenge, which help nurture future leaders and showcase the depth of expertise in the market. We look forward to continuing to grow our presence in India and deepening our partnerships to support the evolving risk landscape,” said Ronak Shah, CEO, Wholesale Markets Asia, QBE Asia.
“It is encouraging to see such strong participation in Mumbai, with emerging risk professionals bringing diverse perspectives and real-world insights to the stage. The Next-Gen Risk Takers Challenge continues to highlight the depth of talent across the region and the importance of creating platforms that support the growth of future risk leaders,” said Annacel A. Natividad, President of PARIMA.
Building on the success of this inaugural challenge in Mumbai, PARIMA announced that the Next-Gen Risk Takers Challenge will continue across Asia in 2026, with upcoming editions scheduled in Penang, Malaysia on 6 August 2026; and Beijing, China, on 17 September 2026.
Next-Gen Risk Takers is a public speaking challenge for emerging risk professionals to share their risk-related learnings and stories to a live audience at the PARIMA Masterclass and Mumbai Conference stops.
Winners of each stop will be awarded a subsidised trip to take part in the inaugural Grand Final on 14 October 2026, held during the PARIMA Singapore Masterclass Day.
For more information on upcoming PARIMA Masterclasses and events, visit https://parima.org/.
ABOUT PARIMA
The Pan-Asia Risk and Insurance Management Association (PARIMA) is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to advancing the risk management profession across Asia-Pacific. Through its events, partnerships, and educational initiatives, PARIMA empowers risk professionals with resources, connections, and knowledge to navigate today’s complex risk landscape. With more than 2,600 members representing over 1,300 companies, PARIMA collaborates with 32 partners to foster resilience, growth, and dialogue within the APAC risk management community.
ABOUT QBE ASIA
QBE Asia is part of the International Division of QBE Insurance Group Limited. Headquartered in Sydney, QBE is listed on the Australia Securities Exchange (ASX). To learn more about QBE Insurance Group, please visit www.qbe.com.
Media Contact:
Louisa Seow
Content Journalist
PARIMA
louisa.seow@parima.org
+65 8013 0740
