GT Foundation (GTFI) welcomed its newest batch of scholars under the GT Reformation and Educational Assistance Program (GT-REAP) for the academic year 2024-2025. The event, held at the GT Foundation Auditorium at Manila Tytana Colleges on December 7, 2024, brought together 100 scholars from four partner schools: De La Salle Araneta University (DLSAU), Lyceum of the Philippines University-Cavite (LPU-Cavite), Manila Tytana Colleges (MTC), and the Technological Institute of the Philippines (TIP), with scholars coming from both Manila and Quezon City campuses.

This year’s event marked the beginning of a journey for these scholars as part of GTFI’s commitment to fostering holistic development through its Motivate, Educate, Engage, and Track (M.E.E.T.) program. The M.E.E.T. initiative aims to nurture the academic and personal growth of scholars, providing them with opportunities to engage in meaningful discussions, interactive activities, and skills-building sessions designed to enhance their career readiness. It also serves as a platform for scholars to connect with each other, their respective universities, and GTFI’s network of industry stakeholders.

In his opening remarks, GTFI Executive Director Aniceto Sobrepeña emphasized the program’s mission to support scholars academically and foster their personal growth and civic responsibility. He highlighted the importance of the 4Cs—Creator, Clan, Community, and Country—values that the GT Foundation instills in its scholars to encourage them to pay it forward.

The event included various activities designed to motivate and engage scholars. The new batch of scholars received certificates of scholarship, while graduates from previous batches were presented with certificates of recognition. Scholars from earlier batches who graduated with Latin honors were also invited to attend and were awarded with cash incentives. In a batch naming activity, the scholars chose the name “Tanglaw,” representing the value of Grit and symbolizing their determination and perseverance.

A significant highlight of the day was the life journey vision board exercise, where scholars reflected on pivotal moments and individuals that have shaped their lives. Additionally, the program featured several inspirational talks.

GTFI Deputy Executive Director Philip Francisco Dy delivered a compelling talk titled “Pilipinas: Mahirap Ka Bang Mahalin?” In his segment, Dy reflected on the national situation and the role of youth in shaping the country’s future. He echoed the famous words of Dr. Jose Rizal, “Ang kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan,” stressing that the youth are the nation’s hope here and now, not in the future, and must actively participate in building a better Philippines in their own way.

AXA Philippines HR Director Hubert Trinidad provided valuable insights on career development, resume building, self-conduct, and personality development for fresh graduates. In addition, Sobrepeña spoke on “Growing in God’s Grace,” highlighting the significance of recognizing God’s grace in achieving personal and national aspirations and emphasizing the power of love and personal relationships in pursuing one’s dreams.

Karel Tan, a full-time Christ Youth in Action missionary, shared his journey from an average medicine student to a dedicated youth worker. He encouraged the scholars to maximize their potential and give God a chance in their lives.

Partner schools expressed their gratitude and support for the program, acknowledging the positive impact of GTFI’s initiatives on the scholars. The event concluded with a commitment ceremony, where scholars wrote their pledges to the Creator and the country on commitment cards, symbolizing their dedication to the values taught by GTFI.

GTFI remains dedicated to investing in the youth, recognizing their potential to create positive change within their community and for the country at large. In addition to the GT-REAP program, GTFI offers a range of scholarship opportunities for elementary, high school, and technical vocational students, with a total of 509 scholarships to date. GTFI is committed to fostering the next generation of leaders through education and active community involvement.

 

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Featured photo: The Motivate, Educate, Engage, and Track (M.E.E.T.) program provides a platform for scholars to connect with one another, their universities, and GT Foundation’s network of industry partners.