The Pan-Asia Risk and Insurance Management Association (PARIMA) concludes the Mumbai edition of its Next-Gen Risk Takers Challenge, naming Kritika Bajaj of Cube Highways Transportation Assets and Advisors as the winner. The challenge is a speaking competition created to give emerging risk professionals a platform to share their insights and experiences with a live audience. Eight risk professionals applied to take part, with three finalists selected to compete in the final. Each finalist delivered a 15-minute presentation followed by a live question and answer session, fielding questions from the audience and a panel of judges. The format tested entrants on their knowledge of risk management as well as their ability to communicate under pressure. Alongside Bajaj, the finalists were Bhaumik Pandya, global manager for sustainability and ESG at DKSH Holding, and Poonam B. Gilani, head of group insurance at Airtel. The judging panel selected Bajaj as the winner following the presentations. “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 Bajaj. The challenge is supported by QBE Asia as title sponsor. Ronak Shah, CEO of wholesale markets Asia at QBE Asia, said: “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.” Annacel A. Natividad, president of PARIMA, said: “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.” PARIMA confirms the challenge will continue across Asia in 2026, with editions scheduled in Penang, Malaysia on 6 August and Beijing, China on 17 September. Winners of each stop receive a subsidised trip to the inaugural grand final on 14 October 2026, held during the PARIMA Singapore Masterclass Day.
