HONG KONG, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In 2025, Metis Global Group deepens its partnership with the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII), advancing initiatives across three core areas: talent development, industry culture, and international knowledge exchange. Spanning the year, this collaborative effort encompasses the LEAD Programme, international event sponsorships, and contributions to authoritative publications, creating a cohesive network of professional engagement.
In September, Metis and CII jointly held the fourth edition of the LEAD (Learning, Enhanced, and Development) Programme. Through 15 hours of structured professional development, the programme guided insurance and financial planning practitioners in strengthening foundational competencies across professional ethics, client service, risk handling, compliance awareness, and cross-disciplinary knowledge. On 25 November, Dr Cheung, Founder and Chairman of Metis Global Group, attended the graduation ceremony to present certificates and congratulate the participants. Now in its fourth consecutive year, the LEAD Programme has become a key continuing-education platform for insurance and financial planning professionals in Hong Kong, further supporting the industry's path towards professionalisation.
In support of workplace culture and diverse values, Metis proudly sponsored Dive In 2025 Hong Kong, the insurance industry's annual global platform for advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I). The theme, "Together We Thrive: Building Tomorrow's Success Through Belonging," highlighted how belonging drives corporate culture, innovation, and talent development. Our participation aims to foster dialogue on leadership and inclusive product innovation to build a more resilient and inclusive ecosystem.
Beyond its continued focus on talent development and corporate culture, Metis has also deepened its engagement in professional dialogue. The August–September issue of The Asia-Pacific Journal featured an article authored by a specialist from Metis Global (Cook Islands) Limited, offering a practical examination of how Cook Islands trusts support multigenerational wealth succession. Centred on the principle of "planning early to ensure intentions are fulfilled," the article explains how trusts help families balance asset protection with long-term governance, while also outlining the Cook Islands' strengths in legal independence and cross-border applicability. Through this publication, Metis brings its professional perspectives to a broader international audience and further strengthens its presence in Asia's family wealth-planning arena.
Looking back, Metis' 2025 initiatives reflect a consistent strategic direction: using professional education as a foundation, cultural engagement as an extension, and knowledge sharing as a bridge to drive multi-level professional progress. Through the LEAD Programme, the cultural advocacy of Dive In, and the global reach of our expert commentary, Metis has solidified its position as a bridge across sectors. We unite the insurance, wealth management, and international trust spheres to foster a closer network of collaboration.
Moving forward, Metis will continue to strengthen its strategic partnership with CII and plans to expand cross-regional and cross-sector initiatives. Our goal is to elevate Asia's global visibility and standards within the financial landscape. Committed to long-term talent cultivation, professional development, and knowledge sharing, the Group works alongside partners to shape a sustainable, open, and inclusive international professional blueprint.
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Metis Global and CII Advance Talent, Culture, and Knowledge Exchange Through Renewed 2025 Partnership
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SUNSHINE COAST, Australia, April 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast is delighted to introduce Bella, a six-year-old rescued Australian fur seal who recently joined the aquarium. Weighing 50.5 kilograms, Bella is currently the only individual of her species in human care, making her arrival a significant moment for both the aquarium and the community.
Named after Victoria's Bellarine Peninsula, Bella was rescued from St Leonards Beach following an incident involving a dog that likely separated her from her mother. She sustained an injury to her left flipper, required extensive care and rehabilitation, and continues to be monitored annually to ensure her long-term health.
Having successfully completed her quarantine period, Bella is setting into life at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast and is gradually integrating with the resident seal colony. She can often be seen alongside her new seal friends, confidently exploring her environment and delighting in the presence of visitors.
"Bella's arrival is an exciting step forward for our seal family," said Carla Haskell, Mammal and Bird Manager at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast. "She has such a curious and energetic nature and has already captured the hearts of our animal care team. We're thrilled to see her building bonds with the rest of the seals."
As the only Australian fur seal currently in human care, Bella offers a rare and meaningful opportunity for visitors to connect with her species and better understand the challenges facing wild seal populations. Her story reinforces SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast's ongoing commitment to conservation and protecting our oceans for future generations.
Visitors can also interact with the seals in a whole new way with our Seal Encounter experience. Meet them face to flipper in a hands-on encounter that lets you get up close to these amazing animals. Spaces are limited, so be sure to pre-book online: www.visitsealife.com/sunshine-coast/tickets-passes/experiences/seal-experiences/
With the school holidays just around the corner, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast is the perfect destination for families looking for fun and educational experiences. Young ocean lovers can take part in the Junior Marine Biologist program (last remaining slots for 14th & 16th Apr), enjoy the unforgettable Sleep Under the Sea overnight adventure (last remaining slots for 11th & 18th Apr), or experience the aquarium in a more relaxed environment during the monthly Sensory Sessions. Book online to secure a spot!
Capture the moment with a professional photo to take home or extend the adventure with our immersive VR game for an unforgettable underwater journey. For those who can't get enough, guests looking to visit more often can also take advantage of great value Annual Pass options, offering unlimited entry and exclusive benefits throughout the year. Purchase at: www.visitsealife.com/sunshine-coast/tickets-passes/tickets/annual-passes
MEDIA CALL
When: 10am, Thursday, 9th April
Where: SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium, Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba
Photo/Video Opportunities: Bella the Australia fur seal playing with his companions
Interviews available with: Carla Haskell, Mammal and Bird Manager, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium
About Merlin Entertainments:
Merlin Entertainments is a global leader in location-based, family entertainment. As Europe's Number 1 and the world's second-largest visitor attraction operator, Merlin operates over 140 attractions, 23 hotels and 6 holiday villages in 24 countries and across 4 continents. Merlin's purpose is to deliver memorable experiences to its millions of guests around the world, through its iconic brands and multiple attraction formats, and the commitment and passion of its employees.
Merlin currently has 9 attractions in Australia, including WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Madame Tussauds, Sydney; Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures and Otway Fly Treetop Adventures & Zip Line; the Sydney Tower Eye; SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast, Queensland, and Kelly Tarlton's SEA LIFE Aquarium in Auckland. Visit www.merlinentertainments.biz for more information.
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New Seal Bella Joins the Seal Family at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast
