MBA students go global

MANILA, Philippines - Asians, specifically Filipinos, have contributed significantly in different industries worldwide. From business, innovation, technology, design, to entertainment industries, the Filipinos continuously make their mark in the global market. The Filipino skills and creativity pave local companies’ penetration into regional and global sectors.

That’s why, at the recent symposium initiated by the MBA 2014 class of the Asian Institute of Management (AIM), the class took on the theme “Let’s Go Global: Strengthening the Asian Footprint.”  The event, held at the AIM Fuller Hall aimed to open students’ perspectives on the opportunities available for them by showcasing the global reach of Filipino talents.

The event featured speakers Oliver Matias, CFO of Liwayway Marketing Corp., Rajo Laurel, founder of House of Laurel, Enrique Gonzales, CEO of the IP Ventures Group, and Erik Matti, the critically acclaimed Filipino director of ‘On the Job’ film. These highly acclaimed Filipino talents shared their stories and lessons that led to world class recognition in their respective fields.

“The goal was to make our MBA students learn from these exemplary business and industry giants with excellent attitudes and strategies in innovation, entertainment, business, and even fashion,” said Dr. Veronica Caparas, professor of Management Communication. “This initiative, like any other program at AIM, hoped to encourage students to evolve into professionals with deeper understanding and ethical appreciation of Asian businesses,” she added.

 Shun Ishimoto, MBA 2014 class president shared, “The experience was mind-opening for the class.  We were privileged to have been given the chance to hear the inspiring stories from our speakers.  These will be the treasures that we can take out of this practice and as we go along and make our own marks in whatever field we chose to focus on.” The successful event was a full class act led by Shun Ishimoto and program leaders Marielle Po, Mica De Jesus, Joel Guzman, Christine Kempeneers, and RJ Paguyo. 

“Our speakers have given us the insights of what Asia is going through and how one resilient country like the Philippines is soaring amidst the challenges. Their stories are testaments to Asia’s evolving and continuing participation in the world of industries and in the pursuit of economic growth,” stresses Dr. Caparas.

The symposium captured the role of Management Communications in the continuing globalization of businesses and industries.  As future business leaders, Dr. Caparas is confident that members of the class have the right know-how to be able to steer the Philippines and other countries in the Asian region towards ASEAN 2015.