Empowering Underprivileged Youth

Empowering Filipino Youth Through Education and Entrepreneurship is a comprehensive two-phase initiative dedicated to breaking the cycle of generational poverty for underprivileged college-age youth in the Philippines. Inspired by the impactful model of the NextStep Foundation, this venture aims to provide not only educational scholarships but also secure and conducive living environments and a clear pathway to economic empowerment through vocational training and entrepreneurship. The project addresses the significant number of talented young Filipinos forced to abandon higher education due to financial constraints, housing insecurity, and limited opportunities.

 

The problem is exemplified by stories like that of Mariel, a bright 17-year-old from a remote barangay who, despite her academic excellence, faced the termination of her educational aspirations due to her family's poverty. This situation is representative of thousands of promising students in the Philippines. The current system lacks a complete pathway from schooling to sustainable careers or business ownership.

Our solution is a full lifecycle support model mirroring the NextStep Foundation's successful framework, implemented in two distinct phases:

● Phase 1: Scholarship and Dignified Housing Program: This phase provides full scholarships and monthly allowances along with clean and secure boarding houses featuring individual study areas for each student. This addresses housing insecurity and creates a stable learning environment crucial for academic success. The boarding houses will accommodate approximately 40 students each and include shared amenities and on-site supervision. Academic support and mentorship programs will also be provided.

● Phase 2: Trade School and Incubator Campus: Upon successful completion of their college degrees, graduates can enroll in a dedicated Trade School and Incubator Campus. This phase offers vocational training in in-demand trades with on-site housing. A key component is an incubator facility equipped with necessary tools, business mentorship, and potential micro-grants to support the launch of new businesses. A mandate for successful incubated businesses to eventually integrate into the community ensures broader local economic benefits.

Our target market is underprivileged, academically promising college-age youth in the Philippines. Our competitive advantage lies in the comprehensive two-phase approach, the focus on dignified housing with individual study spaces, and the community-centric incubator model.

Our Team