Despite being raised and educated overseas, Roland Ros understands the Filipino psyche. Rather than take advantage of a lucrative career outside the Philippines, the former student activist is building a community for Filipinos from the ground up. He is the founder of Kumu, the country’s fastest growing social entertainment network.
A live-streaming app “proudly made by Pinoys”, Kumu was partly envisioned by the founder’s dedication to social change. After becoming frustrated with the seeming stagnancy of student protests, Ros discovered the concept of social entrepreneurship. “I was fascinated by the ability to track measurable results through data … how concepts like microfinance and education empowered mothers to increase their savings and lift millions of people out of poverty using a sustainable business model,” he says. “Learning about this community centred approach to social impact, together with the growth of Facebook, would form an important backbone for my interest in tech and social media.”
Ros directed his altruism and patriotism into creating Kumu. The platform, which has done well in partnerships with local TV shows such as Pinoy Big Brother and Eat Bulaga, has millions of registered users worldwide, champions Filipino voices and makes a point of maintaining a positive atmosphere for all users. “We have core values built on positivity, safety and acceptance,” say Ros. “We’re not trying to be a platform for everyone—we’re trying to be a platform for people who value safety, positivity and an inclusive community that accepts your imperfect self.”
This story is from the June 2022 edition of Tatler Philippines.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 2022 edition of Tatler Philippines.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
THE BIRTH OF A MOVEMENT
More women are taking back their birthing experience and their power-by challenging the institutionalised norms surrounding childbirth, honouring the healing process and leaning on the magic of sisterhood
YOUR EXCEL LENCY
US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson gives a tour of her residence, personal life and why she loves her assignment in the Philippines
A GREAT HONOUR
For the first time, the Hispanic Society Museum and Library recognised the Philippines by awarding the Zobel de Ayala family the prestigious Sorolla Medal at its annual gala in New York
In the Long Run
Longchamp chairman and CEO Jean Cassegrain talks about championing sustainability, the value of women in the workforce, its plans for the Asian market By Maritess Garcia Reyes
LEADING LADIES
Tatler speaks to four beautiful, dynamic ladies who are more than just Senators' wives. Besides being a wife and a mother, they have their own careers and advocacies. Find out in this Tatler exclusive how they are forging their paths as well as how they are playing their part for the country
Driving Diversity
Steering towards an inclusive future, Grab Philippines Country Head Grace Vera Cruz merges diversity with digital innovation
Empowering Spaces
Audrey Go champions a new era in the construction and home furnishing industry, transforming spaces into symbols of empowerment
Global Gem
Kenneth Cobonpue continually impresses through groundbreaking work and a sincere passion to nurture tomorrow's talent
A Cut Above
During a sitdown with Tatler, Asian Institute of Management's president and dean, Jikyeong Kang, opens up about her academic and professional journey and what exactly inspires her today
Chasing Glory
The E Zobel Foundation, Inc (EZF) successfully held the 19th Enrique Zobel Memorial Polo Cup this year to honour the sport and the founder himself, Enrique Zobel.