Growing up in Mindanao, I saw how technology could really make a difference in people’s lives and our community. I became passionate about tech because I knew it could help solve our unique challenges, like improving education and supporting local businesses.

Volunteering was a natural step for me because I wanted to give back to the place that shaped who I am. Whether it was teaching kids how to code, setting up tech workshops, or working on community projects, I wanted to help others gain the skills to succeed in today’s digital world. Mindanao’s rich culture and strong, resilient spirit continue to inspire me, and I’m committed to using technology to drive inclusive and sustainable growth here.

The first time I saw a computer, it was like magic. I was five, and this box in our Davao City home could make things appear on a screen. No internet back then, just me, my curiosity, and a machine to tinker with. My mom, a nurse, and my dad, a jeepney driver, always encouraged us kids, but this computer… this was my thing. It was a playground where I could explore and create, a world far different from our middle-class life.

When the internet finally arrived, I was ten. Suddenly, my little playground expanded into a vast universe. Technology wasn’t just for fun anymore, it was a way to build anything. I started coding, first simple tools, then programs for my classmates. Through shared passions, I found my tribe, other kids fascinated by this digital frontier. We dreamt of more than just making cool apps, we dreamt of putting Mindanao on the tech map.

That’s why I’m here, volunteering at this summit. Mindanao has the potential to be the next Silicon Valley, a melting pot of cultures ready to innovate. I see myself in these attendees, that spark of curiosity in their eyes. I want to give them the tools I had, the playground to explore, to create, to change their world. This isn’t just about code, it’s about showing Mindanao, showing the world, what we’re capable of. This summit is our cauldron, and the concoctions we create here will change everything.

From the moment I first laid my tiny hands on a keyboard at the age of four, technology captivated me. My earliest memories are tinged with the glow of a computer screen, a portal to endless possibilities. By fourth grade, I had ventured into the world of programming, crafting small, fun projects that I eagerly shared with family and friends. These early experiences laid a foundation for my enduring passion. Yet, life took an unexpected turn, and I had my hiatus in my programming journey. In 2016, I embarked on my first volunteering journey, discovering the profound joy of giving back to my community. Fast forward to my college years, I was uncertain about taking up Computer Science as I feared I might regret my choice. Yet, the wealth of learning experiences and opportunities I encountered at university and through community tech events continually surprised and delighted me, reaffirming my decision.

It was this time where I had my first experience attending a tech event that combined my love for technology with my passion for community service. The experience was nothing short of transformative. It provided not only a platform for volunteering but also avenues for learning, networking, and meeting new people. I saw the potential to uplift my community, helping others become industry-ready and develop new skills.

Looking back, my journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the joy of giving back. My passion for technology has intertwined seamlessly with my dedication to my community, creating a fulfilling and impactful path. As I continue to grow and learn, I remain committed to leveraging my skills to make a positive difference in Mindanao, the place I proudly call home.