When our Byahe Began.

Out of the 374 ideas submitted, we made it to the Top 30. The Top 30 were then scheduled for a business pitch marathon where members of the screening committee had to listen to all 30 pitches in one day.

We took the call in Dad's office: Thanks Pepi! Even the pitch was an experience in itself ... We had to say what we need to say in 5 minutes, or else we get cut. Good thing I was on the last slide when they cut me! We were just silent and "tulala" right after the pitch.


A bit about our project:

The question during the phone interview was, "I am a foreigner, I have 3 days, where will you take me?" We did not expect that question, and Anj just bursted out , "Luneta" :o) Must've worked though, because we made it! Too bad Vaneni can't participate further due to work and family priorities, and Bel is still tied down to her last semester in MBA (still part of the team!) .. girl power!

In the coming pages, I will be featuring Project Pagsulong Bootcamp stories and lessons and also feature the other teams! We invite you to be part of our Byahe!

Byahero Anj and Byahero Hanna after the phone pitch @ Dad's office. Thanks JCG & A!

I honestly feel like we are carrying the banner of all those who love to travel and also those who enjoy giving back. We're in this together!

Project Pagsulong and the Law of Inertia

It all began with the desire to make a difference. But desiring is one thing, doing something about it is another.

I have been very blessed with rich learning and experiences on social development and volunteerism , then equally blessed to have a wide network of development practitioners and communicators. I am working in a huge development organization, part of a vibrant UPLB and Human Eco and Up With People alumni community. Recently received a distinguished alumni award from my alma mater for "volunteerism and advocacy." OMG, I am on a roll. Some people might think that I've been doing a lot already, but I still felt that the world has yet to earn from its investment on me.

It was as if my social conscience was yelling at me, "SO, WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO ABOUT IT?" I had a lot of ideas , all in my head, floating in the wind ... then a twist of fate made me swear by the law of inertia.

INERTIA - an object at rest will remain at rest unless acted upon by some external force.

I saw this ad on the paper, amidst super expensive shampoos.. (good thing I like looking at those!)

The ad that started it all. The force that took me out of my stupor.

Project Pagsulong encourages young people to become socially responsible and be the "change makers" that will benefit succeeding generations. Young Filipinos (18-30 years old, teams of 3-5 people) were encouraged to come up with innovative business ideas good enough to to stand against proposals from other teams, and viable enough to provide real life solutions to contribute to poverty alleviation.  Top 3 winners will be awarded with cash grants to make their ideas a reality.

With the help of some friends (Thanks Luis and Risa!) , brainstormed, and came up with a social enterprise business proposal. Submitted it. (Barely made the age limits! Had to pitch to a "younger crowd!" lol)

Core Team Byaheros: Bel, Hanna, Anj. More about our pitch later.

Out of 375 project proposals from around the Philippines, we made it to the Top 30.  We had to undergo a nerve wracking conference call for an oral pitch. Then we made it to the Top 10.

Surreal. Indeed, things are great when you least expect it !

As of this writing, we are on Day 6 of the Project Pagsulong Bootcamp -- where the Top 10 finalists are subject to 9 days of intensive sessions on social development and managing and sustaining your business. My brain is in a mush, my heart is bursting with pride, and my spirit can't wait to get started.

We feel very blessed to be part of the Pagsulong Pioneer Batch 2012 ! All teams will receive mentoring and coaching to improve business plans for the final presentations come March 2013.