Two Ateneo startup teams win in global boot camp competition

Two startup teams from the Ateneo de Manila University won in the University Social Responsibility Network (USRN) Virtual Boot Camp Seed Fund Competition New Normal held online from July 5 to July 30, 2022. Only four teams were declared winners of the global month-long competition.

The boot camp focused on innovation for social good and key areas involving children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities (PWDs). The lessons and activities involved analyzing user needs and designing and prototyping solutions amidst complex social challenges. 

Thanda's venture is a platform that aims to combat social isolation and depression among the elderly by connecting them to community-based events and activities within their area. This would be possible by partnering with different communities and interest groups. Examples include those playing Mahjong or doing Tai Chi together. Team Thanda comprises students Arvin Martin Santos, Frances Therese Ong, Benedict Tyler O’yek, and Joshua Taningco (all 5 BS ITE). Another student from Ateneo de Manila, Janica Abella (2 AB Development Studies), joined Thanda during the event.
  

Ika-wing's venture is a social enterprise built on delivering bonding experiences that combat social isolation. It facilitates "Saya Sessions" that invite speakers worldwide to conduct workshops and activities to make genuine connections. Team Ika-wing consisted of Nirel Marie Ibarra, Samantha Ong, Michelle Co, Rey Delgado, and Kyle Andaya (all 4 BS ITE). 

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and Yonsei University from South Korea were the two other teams that won. Each team will be given US$ 2,000 each as seed money to develop their ideas further. They will also have an opportunity to showcase their work at the Social Innovation Regional Forum 2022 organized by the Jockey Club Design Institute for Social Innovation (JCDISI) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University later this year.

About the University Social Responsibility Network (USRN)

The University Social Responsibility Network (USRN) is a global alliance promoting University Social Responsibility (USR) so that social mission becomes a core mission of universities. The USRN provides an effective and unique platform for collaboration among member universities in all major areas of USR-related activities, spearheading the development of USR in the world.

Currently, the USRN comprises 20 member institutions with a wide geographic spread. Members are leading universities in their countries dedicated to making a positive impact for the benefit of society and the world.

(Source: https://www.usrnetwork.org/about-usrn/members/)