Welcoming future leaders into the boardroom

GO NEGOSYO PILIPINAS

- ANGAT LAHAT! JOEY CONCEPCION

N ow that I am about the same age as my dad when he was in the thick of being active in civil society while balancing his duties at RFM, my thoughts often turn to the future. Maybe it was the same with him as well because even as he advanced in his years he still found time to dabble in the affairs of the community and the country, as well as write an occasional note to me, my siblings and his grandchildren. Those notes are a treasure now that he has passed. He was always one to have an eye focused on the future.

I suppose it is the same with other sons and daughters of great men. We look up to them and constantly desire to live up to their legacy. Growing up, I was profoundly influenced by my father's dedication to the Philippines, particularly through his efforts to uplift the less fortunate. His commitment instilled in me a desire to help, particularly those who might not have access to the same opportunities that many of us take for granted.

I believe in the potential of the youth, and I am glad to see that many of my peers in Philippine business do so, too. One of our programs at Go Negosyo, The Boardroom Experience, creates a direct connection between the current leaders of business today and the future leaders. I have welcomed at the RFM boardroom Senior High School students and spent half the day answering whatever questions they had about what I do as a CEO and what it takes to be a successful business leader or entrepreneur.