by | Nov 27, 2024 | Business
For the first time, Crimson Education Philippines brought its expertise in US and UK university admissions directly to families in Cebu City and Davao City. Held in partnership with HSBC Philippines, Crimson introduced the rigorous process of applying to the world’s top universities to over 70 families, marking a significant step in Crimson’s mission to extend its reach across the country.
Crimson Education is the world’s leading university admissions consulting firm, with a proven track record of helping students gain admission to Ivy League universities (1,004 offers), Oxbridge (294 offers), and other globally ranked institutions.
Their events in Cebu and Davao offered participants an exclusive opportunity to learn the strategies behind gaining admission to prestigious institutions like Stanford, Oxford, and MIT. In Davao, where only one school currently offers an international curriculum, the seminar provided invaluable insights into preparing students for global success.
“We believe there are many talented and high-performing students across the country who deserve access to the best educational opportunities. We have already onboarded our first student from Ilocos Region, and we’re excited to welcome students from Cebu and Davao, two cities that are brimming with potential,” said Raymond Sakiwat, Marketing Manager of Crimson Education Philippines.
The seminars also address challenges posed by the recent Philippine International Student Assessment Test (PISAT) results, which highlighted gaps in student performance. Crimson Education emphasized a holistic approach to student development, which includes academic mentoring, extracurricular and leadership coaching, research and internships, and support for impactful community projects.
“Our goal is not just to help students gain admission to top universities but to develop them into well-rounded individuals who excel academically, lead with purpose, and contribute meaningfully to their communities,” Sakiwat added.
Joanne Gao, Crimson Education’s Country Manager for Singapore and the Philippines, emphasized the company’s commitment to nationwide access. “Expanding to regions outside Metro Manila is a major step for us, and we’re thrilled to have HSBC Philippines supporting us in this mission. These seminars are just the beginning of our efforts to empower students across the Philippines.”
The events showcased Crimson’s customized approach to the admissions process, covering academic planning, extracurricular strategies, and leadership development tailored to each student’s goals.
HSBC Philippines on the other hand, offered their expertise in investments, where they have shared strategies to help Filipino parents build their children’s financial foundation needed for a world class foundation.
Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, Crimson Education has 21 global offices. In the Philippines, Crimson has already helped students secure spots at Stanford, the University of Pennsylvania, the University of California, Berkeley, King’s College London, University College London and more.
With its first-ever seminars in Cebu and Davao, Crimson Education continues to break barriers, empowering Filipino students to dream bigger and achieve more on the global stage.
by | Nov 27, 2024 | Business
Discover how Sally Dimalanta, UNAWA’s co-founder, champions people-first legal tech, driving innovation with empathy and user-focused solutions.
Melissa “Sally” Dimalanta stands out
as a beacon of people-first innovation. Recently acknowledged as one of UNAWA’s
co-founders, Sally’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and a
commitment to making technology work for the people it serves. As highlighted
in a recent
article on the UNAWA blog, Sally’s belief that “our team is our biggest
asset” underscores her leadership style and focus on nurturing talent to fuel
innovation.
A Trailblazer’s Professional Journey
Sally’s career began in the BPO sector, where
she dedicated 16 years to honing her skills in team dynamics and operations
management. Starting as an entry-level agent, she steadily rose to the rank of
Senior Director of Operations. These formative years not only showcased her
determination but also cultivated a deep appreciation for people-centric
leadership.
“I learned early on
that it’s not just about meeting KPIs or hitting targets. Success is built on
how we empower and engage the people behind those numbers.”
Her transition to UNAWA in 2021 marked a
significant pivot in her career. Initially brought on board as a consultant,
Sally focused on client management. Recognizing her knack for leadership and
her ability to foster team cohesion, she was soon offered full-time roles as
Senior Account Manager and later as HR Director.
A People-First Philosophy in a Tech-Driven World
At the heart of Sally’s work is her steadfast
belief that technology should be an enabler for people. As legal tech continues
to revolutionize industries, Sally is keenly aware of the challenges that come
with adopting new tools. Her approach is simple yet profound: prioritize user
experience without compromising on functionality or compliance.
“Technology should simplify, not intimidate.
At UNAWA, we aim to build solutions that are not just innovative but also
intuitive,” Sally explained in her interview.
This philosophy is evident in UNAWA’s flagship
products, such as SignSecure and UCheck. SignSecure, with its biometric authentication
powered by UNAWA
Face Recognition (UFR), offers a legally enforceable and user-friendly way
to sign documents. Similarly, UCheck streamlines Anti-Money Laundering (AML)
compliance by enabling efficient and accurate name screening.
“We’ve seen how intimidating compliance can
be, especially for smaller businesses. My goal is to ensure that our tools make
processes simpler and more accessible while keeping our clients compliant,”
Sally said.
The Road to Co-Foundership
Sally’s recent recognition as UNAWA’s
co-founder is both a milestone and a testament to her impact on the company.
This acknowledgment reflects her expanded role in shaping UNAWA’s strategic
direction, advocating for its team, and ensuring that its products align with
user needs. The announcement was celebrated in an article on Journal.com.ph,
which highlighted how Sally and her fellow co-founders are driving UNAWA’s
mission forward.
As HR Director, Sally introduced initiatives
that foster a collaborative and inclusive workplace. From organizing team
retreats to spearheading skill-building workshops, she has created an
environment where employees feel valued and empowered.
Her influence also extends beyond UNAWA’s
walls. As a co-founder, Sally has become a spokesperson for the company,
embodying its values of integrity, teamwork, and innovation. Whether presenting
at industry events or collaborating with partners, she represents the heart of
UNAWA’s mission: bridging the gap between people and technology.
Balancing Innovation with Humanity
Sally’s dual role as co-founder and HR
Director positions her uniquely within the company. She champions a balance
between technological advancement and human needs—a perspective she believes is
crucial in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.
“When we design
products, we always ask: How will this help our users? How will this make their
lives easier? It’s not just about the tech; it’s about the people who use it.”
This user-first approach has earned UNAWA a
reputation for delivering solutions that are as practical as they are
groundbreaking. For Sally, this is a point of pride and a motivation to
continue pushing boundaries.
Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Empowerment
Sally’s journey from operations leader to
co-founder is a testament to her adaptability and vision. As UNAWA continues to
expand its offerings and reach, Sally remains committed to ensuring that its
people-first philosophy stays at the core of its operations.
Reflecting on her role, she shared: “Being
recognized as a co-founder is an honor, but it’s also a responsibility. It’s a
reminder that we’re not just building products—we’re building trust,
relationships, and a future where technology truly empowers people.”
Her words encapsulate the essence of her
leadership: a blend of empathy, innovation, and a deep-rooted belief in the
power of collaboration. For Sally, the acknowledgment as co-founder is not just
a title—it’s a validation of her relentless efforts to champion both people and
technology.
As UNAWA continues to lead the way in legal
tech, Sally Dimalanta’s story will undoubtedly inspire others to embrace a
people-first approach, proving that innovation is most impactful when it serves
those who need it most.
by | Nov 27, 2024 | Business
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – 27 November 2024 – Nusantara Global Network (NGN) is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with FBS Broker to launch an innovative Introducing Broker (IB) program aimed at empowering aspiring brokers and expanding market access. The partnership is designed to provide individuals with the tools, training, and support needed to succeed in the competitive financial sector.
The partnership between Nusantara Global Network and FBS Broker represents a significant opportunity for aspiring brokers to enter the financial markets with confidence. Through the program, participants will gain access to a comprehensive range of resources, including a cutting-edge trading platform, educational materials, and personal guidance from industry experts.
“This partnership with FBS Broker is a significant moment for Nusantara Global Network as we strive to enhance our offering and support new brokers,” said the Head of Nusantara Global Network. “By providing aspiring brokers with the necessary resources and training, we are nurturing a new generation of financial professionals who will contribute to the growth of the industry.”
The Introducing Broker program will offer many benefits, including an attractive commission structure, access to innovative trading tools, and ongoing educational opportunities. Participants will also be part of a dynamic community that encourages networking and knowledge sharing, allowing them to learn from each other’s experiences.
“Collaborating with Nusantara Global Network allows us to expand our reach and provide the necessary guidance to help aspiring brokers grow,” said a representative from FBS Broker. “We believe that this collaboration will not only enhance the skills of new brokers but also raise the overall standards of professionalism in the trading industry.”
The initiative is in line with broader industry trends that emphasize financial inclusion and accessibility. By focusing on education and support, Nusantara Global Network and FBS Broker are addressing the skills gap and empowering diverse individuals to explore lucrative careers in trading.
For more information on the Introducing Broker program and how to get involved, please visit click here.
About FBS Broker
FBS Broker is a well-known broker firm committed to customer satisfaction and delivering high-quality trading services. With a focus on innovation and education, FBS Broker aims to simplify the trading experience and provide its clients with the tools they need for success.
by | Nov 27, 2024 | Business
27 November 2024, San Juan, La Union — As United Nations member states continue talks this week in Busan, South Korea for the fifth and most critical session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5)[1] to develop a Global Plastics Treaty, Greenpeace Philippines, together with Young Earth Savers, Koalisyon Isalbar ti Pintas ti La Union, Dalumpinas Oeste Eco Rangers, San Juan Resort Restaurant Hotel Association Inc., and communities in La Union, unfurled a giant banner on the shorelines of Urbiztondo, with a bold message to world leaders to “END PLASTIC NOW.”
The creative action sends a strong reminder to governments, especially the Philippine delegation led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, to maintain and strengthen its position at INC-5 in Busan, South Korea.
“The INC-5 is our last stand in ending plastic pollution on a global scale,” said Marian Ledesma, Greenpeace Philippines Zero Waste Campaigner, speaking from the INC5 meeting in Busan.
“Governments must create a strong and ambitious Plastics Treaty that reduces plastic production and advances reuse in order to safeguard people’s health, secure economic opportunities, and protect the environment. Anything less will only allow the plastic crisis to spiral further out of control.”
The participants held a banner spelling out “END PLASTIC NOW!” Tuesday morning, pushing for a strong Plastics Treaty that mandates a cut in plastic production and supports a just transition to slow, circular, reuse-based economy.
Various community members participated in the creative action including fisherfolk, progressive businesses, civil society groups, and tourists, among others.
“Ang Global Plastics Treaty na ginagawa ngayon sa Busan, Korea ay malaki ang maitutulong kasi ang pag-iingay natin dito ay maririnig ng buong daigdig. Ang treaty ay makakatulong para maitigil na ang pagprodukto lalung-lalo na ng mga single-use plastic,” said Koalisyon Isalbar ti Pintas ti La Union president Cris Palabay.
(The Global Plastics Treaty being discussed in Busan, Korea would help us greatly because it’s an opportunity for the whole world to hear our demand. This treaty could potentially stop the production of single-use plastics.)
Tina Antonio-Schmitz, Secretary of San Juan Resort Restaurant Hotel Association Inc. echoed this call, saying that it could possibly shift the burden of accountability from grassroots communities and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) towards the major producers of problematic plastics — large corporations.
“The INC-5 road to plastic reduction treaty will help target the actual manufacturers who make billions of money in production because it will have the guidelines. [That’s where it usually begins], a treaty and then actual guidelines [that governments must follow]. And it might even go to the point where it can be litigated,” explained Antonio-Schmitz.
Oil-producing states and plastic industry lobbyists are increasing pressure on countries into adopting a watered down treaty, as 99% of plastic is made from chemicals sourced from fossil fuels.[2] The plastic lifecycle not only generates emissions that drive climate change, but it is also linked to millions of deaths worldwide.[3]
The Philippines earlier took a progressive stance earlier this year at the INC-4, calling for global reduction targets based on scientific evidence.[4] Greenpeace is calling for a 75% reduction in plastic reduction by 2040[5] in order to maintain a “livable planet and an equitable future.”
With 94% of Filipinos[6] in favor of a cap on plastic production to mitigate pollution, biodiversity loss, and global warming, advocates believe that the Philippine government must listen to the sentiments of the people and protect them and the environment by championing a strong Plastics Treaty. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources is representing the Philippines in the talks.
Ledesma said, “INC-5 will be remembered for the choices our leaders make today. We are calling on the DENR to help ensure that the talks conclude with an outcome that is pro-people and planet. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to pave the way for a healthier, plastic-free future. The stakes are high, and failure is not an option. The world is watching, and it demands action.”
###
PHOTO CREDIT: © Noel Celis / Greenpeace
Notes to editors:
[1] Fifth Session (INC-5)
[2] A New Plastics Economy is Needed to Protect the Climate
[3] Fossil Fuels & Health
[4] Philippine government position in requiring global plastic production targets
[5] Why Greenpeace is calling on governments to cut plastic production by at least 75% by 2040
[6] Survey: Filipinos most in favor of global cut in plastic production
by | Nov 27, 2024 | Business
The FlutterFlow HackFest: Impact Challenge, hosted by FlutterFlow Developer Group (FFDG) Manila, showcased the talents of Filipino developers during a 24-hour hackathon aimed at addressing global challenges. Held from November 22-23, 2024, in Taguig City and Makati City, the event saw 13 teams creating apps aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on health, education, and sustainable communities.
Grand prize winner Team Null developed Sustancia, an AI-powered nutrition app, while Team Flux’s Inspectrum utilized eye-gaze tracking for ADHD and ASD detection, earning second place. Team Neosolve’s gamified productivity app Procrash secured third.
The event benefited from mentorship and guidance from industry experts, and the innovative apps tackled real-world problems with solutions like waste management, accessibility, and mental health support. Demonstrating the power of FlutterFlow to accelerate development, the hackathon reinforced FFDG Manila’s mission to inspire Filipino tech talent and drive positive social change.
FlutterFlow played a pivotal role in the hackathon, empowering participants to rapidly develop their ideas into functional apps through its intuitive drag-and-drop interface and powerful features. The platform enabled teams to focus on innovation and problem-solving without getting bogged down in complex coding.
Filipino Developers Create 13
Apps for Social Good at FlutterFlow HackFest: Impact Challenge
Manila, Philippines (November 23-24, 2024) – The FlutterFlow HackFest:
Impact Challenge, hosted by the FlutterFlow Developer Group (FFDG) Manila,
celebrated the creativity and ingenuity of Filipino developers as they raced
against the clock to build solutions for global challenges. Over an exhilarating
24-hour hackathon, 13 teams crafted innovative applications with the power to
drive social impact and advance sustainable development.
Turning Ideas into Impact in 24
Hours
The HackFest kicked off on November
22 at the Google Philippines office in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
City, where participants drew inspiration from keynote speakers. Jan Michael
Jaudian, Head of Customer Engineering for the Philippines and Vietnam at
Google, highlighted how technology serves as both a catalyst and toolkit for
solving real-world problems. Elmerei Cuevas, Social Innovation Analyst
at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), offered a compelling
overview of the Philippines’ progress on the Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs), motivating participants to develop meaningful apps for social good and sustainable
development.
On November 23, the action
culminated at Common Ground Rockwell in Makati City with an electrifying
Demo Day. Teams presented apps developed entirely in 24 hours using
FlutterFlow’s intuitive platform.
·
Team Null clinched the ₱50,000 grand
prize with Sustancia, an AI-powered app designed to foster balanced
eating habits and provide city-wide nutrition insights.
·
Team Flux took second place and a ₱30,000
prize with Inspectrum, an innovative app utilizing eye gaze tracking
technology to aid in the early detection of ADHD and ASD.
·
Team Neosolve earned the ₱20,000
third-place prize for Procrash, a gamified productivity app that
transforms habit-building into an engaging adventure.
<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://slvrdlphn.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/public-201" alt="A group photo of Team
” />
Mentors and Judges:
Participants received guidance from
an exceptional lineup of mentors and judges, including industry luminaries like
Steve Ng (FlutterFlow), Allan Tan (Predictive Systems Inc), Miguel
Fermin (White Cloak Technologies), Vince Rocha (Mylo Speech Buddy), Jeff
Mendoza (MyCondoPal), Myles Delfin (BikeScout), Joshua de Guzman
(Dub), Jake Go (Springboard), Albert Padin (mWell), Atty.
Hazel Manaog-Mendoza, and Michie Ang (Women Who Code). Their
expertise was pivotal in shaping the participants’ ideas into impactful
solutions. Special appreciation is also extended to Dominic Medenilla
(Google), whose efforts ensured the hackathon’s success.
Apps Driving Social Good Aligned
with SDGs
The 13 innovative apps developed at
the HackFest addressed challenges across three key Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs):
·
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Apps
like Sustancia, Inspectrum, Optimai, and AI Rescue addressed nutrition,
early disease detection, providing mental health support, and improving emergency
response.
·
SDG 4: Quality Education – Solutions such
as Ipaglaban Mo, ElevatEd, Procrash, and A11y focused on delivering
legal education, supporting learners with dyscalculia, enhancing productivity,
and creating a web accessibility platform.
·
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
– Apps like ECO Learn, SureBin, Scrapify, Repari, and Rent ‘n Lend
offered innovative solutions for environmental sustainability, efficient waste
management, recycling, household repairs, and community resource-sharing.
Paving the Way for Social Good
Through Technology
With FlutterFlow, developers,
designers and tech enthusiasts can now bring ideas to life in just 24 hours, as
demonstrated by FlutterFlow HackFest: Impact Challenge. This accelerated
development process empowers everyone to experiment and iterate quickly. The
event showcased the overall potential of FlutterFlow to drive innovation and
social impact.
FlutterFlow Developer Group (FFDG)
Manila is committed to inspiring a new generation of Filipino tech talent. By
fostering a community of passionate developers, we aim to drive positive change
and build a brighter future for the Philippines.
For more information, visit:
https://www.facebook.com/ffdgmanila/
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