Best Buddies Philippines celebrates major programs’ developments, new chairperson

05.09.2024 11:55

Rappler.com

Best Buddies Philippines (BBP) celebrates several milestones, marking a significant period of growth and achievement for the organization to serve and uplift the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Among these is the success of the Pre-Employment Program, which empowered 32 individuals to learn and seek competitive employment. In collaboration with 20 companies and 19 industry experts, participants learned about career ambition, application skills, and STEAM. This initiative, made possible by the Public Affairs Sector of the U.S. Embassy, provided participants with a comprehensive 12-session module designed to enhance their job-seeking skills and prepare them for successful employment.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM. BBP collaborated with Nexus Technologies for Pre Employment Session 10 focused on artificial intelligence (AI). Participants learned how to utilize ChatGPT and how to generate effective prompts for job search

MENTORSHIP. Jobs participants were matched with a buddy for the day volunteer from Nexus Technologies. This is in line with BBP’s one to one friendship pillar where individuals with and without disabilities form meaningful connections

In addition to this initiative, Best Buddies Philippines is excited to announce the expansion of its Friendship Programs beyond Metro Manila, now reaching the communities of Samar, Leyte, and Cebu. This expansion is a testament to the organization’s unwavering commitment to fostering inclusion and providing life-changing opportunities for individuals with IDD across the Philippines.

EXPANSIONS. BBP established its first elementary school chapter in Children’s Paradise Montessori School in Mandaue City, Cebu

As Best Buddies Philippines continues to grow, the organization is equally honored to announce the appointment of Rhodora Palomar-Fresnedi as the new Chair of the Board of Directors. A globally recognized advocate for diversity and inclusion, Palomar-Fresnedi brings a wealth of experience and passion to her new role, having led global teams and built NGOs while serving as an adviser to top executives around the world.

Her leadership comes at a pivotal time as Best Buddies Philippines embarks on this exciting phase of expansion. “We are thrilled to have Rhodora on board as we scale and amplify our impact through our multifaceted programs of friendship, leadership, and employment,” said Michelle Aventajado, President and Executive Director of Best Buddies Philippines. “Her strategic vision and deep commitment to inclusion will be instrumental as we expand our efforts to uplift the lives of individuals with IDD, particularly in our newly established areas of Samar, Leyte, and Cebu.”

NEW LEADERSHIP. (L-R) Executive director Michelle Aventajado; chief pasta maker for Cucina di Francesco, Ibarra Gargantiel; founder and owner of Cucina di Francesco, Mary Rose Peña; and chair for BBP, Rhodora Palomar-Fresnedi. BBP’s new chair attends the Pre Employment Session on Leadership Training. This training was conducted at Cucina di Francesca, an inclusive restaurant that hires individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities like their line cook Ibarra Gargantiel

Palomar-Fresnedi has already made a significant impact, guiding the Board of Directors through a strategic planning process that has opened up new opportunities and provided a clear direction for the organization’s future. Her extensive background and numerous accolades, including the Eunice Kennedy Shriver Trailblazer Award and the SENIA Advocacy Award, underscore her dedication to making a difference in people’s lives.

Joining her on the Board of Directors are esteemed inclusion advocates and dedicated community members Larry Aguirre, Daniela Vasquez, Marayma Laco, and Jake Roxas.

With the addition of these passionate leaders, Best Buddies Philippines is well-positioned to strengthen its mission of fostering inclusion and empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to reach their fullest potential. – Rappler.com

PRESS RELEASE

BrandRap is the platform for your brand’s next big story. Every day, we collaborate with our partners to create stories that are informative, relevant, and effective. If you want to amplify your message, engage the right audience, and expand your social reach online, we’d like to help. Email us at sales@rappler.com. We also invite you to join the #CheckThisOut chat room of the Rappler Communities app, available for iOS, Android, or web.