In the Philippines, almost 11 million children and youth are out of school. While public education is free, many families struggle with the additional expenses that come with it, which often leads to students dropping out. To address this, award-winning strategic marketing agency TeamAsia reinforces its commitment to championing children’s education through its advocacy campaign, My Dream in a Shoebox (MDIAS).
Photo: TeamAsia
When MDIAS was launched 17 years ago, it initially focused on collecting shoeboxes—now called dream kits—to hold school supplies that help children achieve their dreams through education.
Over the years, MDIAS has expanded its efforts to include financial assistance for scholars under its Dream Scholarship Assistance Program, as well as donations to its beneficiary partners.
Photo: TeamAsia
“We believe that no child should ever have to choose between their education and financial circumstances. With MDIAS, we don’t just provide children with tools—we also fuel their dreams. We empower them to dream big and write their own story without worrying about a lack of resources,” said Monette Iturralde-Hamlin, founder and chairperson of TeamAsia and co-chief dream builder of MDIAS.
From promise to progress
MDIAS partnered with the Yellow Boat of Hope (YBH), a non-profit organization that makes education more accessible to Filipino children in remote and poverty-stricken areas through various initiatives. One such initiative is establishing e-hubs that support blended learning and improve access to technology and connectivity.
“Collaborating with organizations that share our vision for education and empowerment allows us to create a more substantial and lasting impact. Together, we can provide the tools and opportunities that transform lives and communities,” said Anton Lim, co-founder of YBH.
In 2024 alone, MDIAS raised funds to provide YBH with an educational hub consisting of six computers, a year of internet service, a printer with materials, school supplies, hygiene essentials, and logistical support.
Last year, MDIAS also distributed over 5,000 dream kits, 300 of which were received by beneficiaries of the Payatas Orione Foundation Inc. (PAOFI) at the Atis Covered Court, Area B, Brgy. Payatas, Quezon City.
Fueling the future of the youth
Charlotte Rosalijos, a process associate at a logistics company and a PAOFI scholar, shared how MDIAS made a difference in her life:
“I was inspired by the story of a MDIAS volunteer who’s an accountant, and I realized that pursuing accountancy was worth it because I saw the life she led. I want to grow up to be like her—that’s why I’m also starting to volunteer and hopefully become part of a larger volunteer experience,” said Rosalijos.
MDIAS’ continued efforts have positively impacted as many as 400,000 lives. Now more than ever, the campaign is driven to help more children by equipping them with the necessary tools for learning.
MDIAS invites everyone to join this movement for the future of children. You can participate as a partner, donor, or volunteer. For ₱350, you can sponsor a dream kit, and for ₱3,000, you can provide a child with educational materials for an entire school year. Monetary donations for dream kits, food, and logistical support are also welcome. More information is available at https://shoeboxcampaign.teamasia.com/donate/.
“All we ask is for everyone to take a good look at what we can do to improve the future of children—how we can provide them with support and, in our own ways, help make bigger dreams come true,” said Bea Lim, president and CEO of TeamAsia and co-chief dream builder of MDIAS.
ALSO READ: Here’s How You Can Help Empower Youth Through “My Dream In A Shoebox” Campaign
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