I have always looked up to people with noble professions and those who were naturally born with golden hearts--those who give a helping hand without asking for anything in return, those whose hands may be full but are still willing to help to the best of their ability for the benefit of our less fortunate brothers and sisters.
Growing up privileged, yet I had also volunteered to various NGOs, I myself had witnessed the simple acts of generosity and kindness from total strangers--and to be honest, these made me reflect. They inspire me to give myself more to others. As St. John Paul II said, "Nobody is so poor he has nothing to give, and nobody is so rich he has nothing to receive."
One of the many wisdom that Jesus has passed to us is that life is not, "I" or "me" but "we" and "us." Life is a community. It is wonderful to know one's place in the world and every single one of us needs each other. When I get to know people like our recently inducted Ashoka fellows and changemakers, namely Scott Stiles, Ben Abadiano, and Ryan Gervasa.
Ashoka is a non-governmental organization that aims to support leading social innovators around the globe. Recently, Ashoka officially inducted three outstanding and leading social innovators who have championed inclusive and systems-changing solutions in various Filipino communities. The virtual event was hosted by Ashoka Philippines to honor these "changemakers" as well as induct new lifelong members of Ashoka Fellowship program.
Founded in 1980, Ashoka has created a massive network of professionals that supports over 3,500 Ashoka Fellows from 93 countries. Now on their 40th year, Ashoka has built and nurtured the largest network of leading social innovators from across various sectors, professions and countries. After a stringent selection process, they are introduced to a lifelong Fellowship, where each member is committed to championing new patterns of social good.
The online event was led by Terri Jayme-Mora, Country Director for Ashoka Philippines who made the honor of inducting Scott Stiles, co-founder of Fair Employment Foundation, Ryan Gersava, co-founder of Virtualahan, Ben Abadiano, founder of Pamulaan Center of Indigenous People (IP) Education. The three exemplified what it means to make a resounding impact that benefits all Filipinos. Their respective organizations around the country go beyond limitations, socioeconomic status, and culture and thereby took down barriers and regressive systems.
"We are proud to welcome Scott, Ben, and Ryan into the global Ashoka Fellowship. Their transformative work extends to regions, sectors, and people that are unfortunately often overlooked despite having potential solutions for the good of everyone. They have what it takes to be a changemaker," says Ashoka Philippines Country Director Terri Jayme-Mora.
