Stay curious, and embrace failure. These are just some of the insights shared with young innovators by alumni of Innovation Generation (InnoGen), the grant program of PLDT, and the wireless unit Smart Communications.
During the mentorship sessions for the third season of InnoGen, alumni from the first and second batches made their presence felt, not just within beneficiary communities, but also in the lives of fellow youth innovators.
Twenty-three-year-old John Jerome Colico, an Electronics Engineering graduate from Ateneo de Naga University looked back on his favorite InnoGen moments.
“The brainstorming sessions and the exchange of ideas with fellow participants thrilled me. The vibrant atmosphere of creativity and the joy of collaborating on innovative solutions was truly unforgettable,” John recalled.
From being a participant back then to being a mentor now, John also shared his role in empowering today’s youth through innovation and excellence.
“Our primary role is to guide, inspire, and empower young innovators. We provide them with valuable insights, offer guidance in problem-solving, and help them navigate their innovation journey. We aim to uplift and support the next generation of innovators,” John shared.
He added, “the most fulfilling part is witnessing the growth and success of the young innovators. Seeing their ideas transform into impactful projects and witnessing their confidence soar is truly rewarding.”
John advised his fellow young innovators on how to turn their dreams into reality.
“Embrace curiosity, stay passionate, and never shy away from failure. Continuously seek knowledge, network with like-minded individuals, and surround yourself with a supportive community. Pursuing your dreams requires perseverance, resilience, and belief in your abilities.”
Twenty-four-year-old Kenneth Faundo, an IT graduate from Bulacan State University, shared his role in assisting his fellow youth towards innovation and excellence.
“I guide the participants by sharing all knowledge within my reach and not holding back any information I think they might need. I believe that it will take more than one learning session to help them achieve the impact they need for their project,” he said.
He also looked back on the most fulfilling part of being a participant back then, now becoming an InnoGen mentor.
“The best part of the whole experience includes coming across projects that fall under my specialty. There’s fulfillment whenever I get to share insights I am 100% sure of,” Kenneth shared.
PLDT and Smart’s InnoGen remains to be an avenue for innovation wherein the youth can become changemakers and build a smarter world through technology. The program supports the UNSDGs #4: Quality Education.