What is the secret to Chris Tiu's success

MANILA, Philippines - Anyone who’s into basketball knows who Chris Tiu is — a skillful player with a charisma that makes him all the more endearing. But what makes Chris Tiu more fascinating is how he behaves off the court, especially since this Milo ambassador is living a life that’s worth admiring and emulating.

“Chris embraces the thrust of Milo to get youth into sports and we share the belief that sports is an effective vehicle in building champions while teaching them values they need to win in life. There’s no better individual to help us get this crucial message across than Chris, who personifies the attributes of a true champion,” says Nestlé AVP and Milo consumer marketing manager Stephanie Toh.

Blessed with charm, great looks, intelligence, awesome basketball skills and a personality most parents would love their kids to have, Chris truly inspires. So what’s the secret to his success? Chris credits values that he learned playing basketball.

“I joined the Milo Best basketball clinic when I was seven years old. I joined the Milo tournaments, three years in SBP and two years in Paserelle while I was studying in Xavier. At a very early age, I got to compete with the champions of the other provinces, which molded me to become who I am today. Playing against bigger and stronger kids gave me the courage to keep competing and become a better player. I learned the value of discipline and managing my time wisely as well,” adds Chris.

 It is these values that drive Chris to be the best that he can be. After finishing a degree in Management Engineering in Ateneo, Chris took up a second course in Applied Math in Finance with a minor in Chinese Studies also in Ateneo, and while he has yet to finish the course, Chris did not waste time doing other things to make himself a better person while helping others live better lives.

“A true champion isn’t just a winner in the court but also in life. Somebody who excels in sport, uses his success to inspire others and make a difference in other people’s lives, to share the right values and give back to society, that’s a champion,” says Chris. It is this belief that spurs Chris to be active in several advocacies like public education and youth leadership.

“I’m involved in the Ateneo Center for Educational Development (ACED), which is focused on developing and improving existing public schools. We visit a school, do a thorough study on what they need in terms of curriculum, infrastructure, supplies, and faculty, and then we make recommendations on how to improve their situation,” says Chris.

Aside from ACED, Chris is also involved in the Voice of Leadership campaign with Volvo, a training program that develops the skills of youth leaders in the high school level. He’s also active in the K-25 leadership program, which conducts training sessions for college leaders. Chris has also participated in numerous talks and seminars in various organizations.

Indeed, Chris Tiu typifies the qualities of a true champion: talented, successful, selfless and helpful towards others. It is these traits that make him more than just a basketball star, but a much-respected and admired person whether it’s on the basketball court or in the real game called life.