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Youth

Empowering Youth through Entrepreneurship: The BEST for the Youth Program

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The University of the Philippines (UP) completed the Building for Entrepreneurial Skills Training (BEST) for the Youth program, a initiative that empowered young individuals from vulnerable sectors with the knowledge and confidence to pursue entrepreneurial paths. This 7-session program, conducted from March to June 2025, brought together 20 youth members aged 18 to 24 and provided them with training on various aspects of entrepreneurship, including productivity tools, digital marketing, and government registration. Through real-world experience at the 6th BUYanihan sa Diliman bazaar, participants refined their pitches, learned to handle rejections, and gained confidence in their abilities.

Key Takeaways:

  • The BEST for the Youth program, conducted by the UP Institute for Small-Scale Industries (ISSI), aimed to empower young individuals from vulnerable sectors with knowledge and confidence to pursue entrepreneurial paths.
  • The program gathered 20 youth members aged 18 to 24 and provided training on various aspects of entrepreneurship, including productivity tools, digital marketing, and government registration.
  • Participants took part in discussions on understanding the MSME sector, productivity tools, and digital marketing, and received mentorship from industry experts and guidance from UP ISSI's experienced trainers.
  • Graduates like Julia Singson and Raphael Rodriguez, recognized for their standout business plans, demonstrated the potential of young entrepreneurs to create impact through their ideas.
  • The program prepared participants for the real-world environment and provided them with the skills and confidence to pursue their entrepreneurial goals.
  • The BEST for the Youth program is funded through the extension grant of UP Diliman OVCRD, led by project leader Jake A. Villanueva and assistant project lead Marvin 'Marga' M. Manlapas.
  • The program's organizers believe that young entrepreneurs are not to be dismissed, but rather empowered to build their futures and make a positive impact in their respective communities.

Statistics:

  • 20 youth members aged 18 to 24 participated in the BEST for the Youth program.
  • The program ran for 7 sessions, from March to June 2025.
  • Participants received training on various aspects of entrepreneurship, including productivity tools, digital marketing, and government registration.

Sources:

  • The University of the Philippines (UP)
  • Institute for Small-Scale Industries (ISSI)
  • UP Diliman OVCRD
  • The BEST for the Youth Program: A Transformative Space for Young Entrepreneurs

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