Pay it Forward: Speaking at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde's Futourism Event

Hello, dear readers! Today, I'm thrilled to take you on a journey back to a special day in November 2018. Picture this: I received an invitation to be a resource speaker at an event hosted by none other than De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde. The event was titled "Futourism: Embracing Digital Transformation" and aimed at shaping the minds of the next generation of leaders in the hospitality industry. Now, if you're not familiar with De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, let me fill you in. This institution is not just any college; it's a powerhouse in the field of hospitality education in the Philippines. Known for its rigorous programs and high-caliber faculty, Saint Benilde is the place where aspiring hoteliers and tourism professionals dream of studying. So, you can imagine how honored I felt to be invited as a speaker. Not only was this an opportunity to share my insights and experiences, but it was also a chance to engage with young, enthusiastic students eager to make their mark in the world. It was a moment that combined my passion for education, technology, and the travel industry, making it an experience I eagerly looked forward to.

The Heart of the Matter: Embracing Technology in a Digital World. The central theme of my talk was a subject close to my heart: the transformative power of technology in the travel industry. I focused on three pivotal areas that are shaping the way we travel and do business today.

The Rise of Online Travel Agencies (OTAs). Firstly, I delved into the meteoric rise of Online Travel Agencies, or OTAs, as they're commonly known. Gone are the days when travel planning involved multiple visits to a travel agent's office. Today, OTAs offer the convenience of planning your entire trip—flights, hotels, and activities—at the click of a button. It's a revolution that has democratized travel, making it accessible to more people than ever before.

The Consumer Shift to Online Platforms. The second key point was the undeniable shift in consumer behavior towards online platforms. With the advent of the internet and smartphones, consumers now prefer to browse, compare, and book their travel plans online. It's not just a trend; it's a paradigm shift that businesses must adapt to in order to stay relevant.

The Mobile Revolution. Lastly, I touched upon the increasing importance of mobile apps in shaping consumer choices. With the majority of internet users now accessing the web via smartphones, mobile apps have become the new frontier for customer engagement. From last-minute bookings to real-time itinerary updates, mobile apps are making travel more convenient and personalized.

The Audience: The Future of Hospitality. As I took the stage, I was met with a room full of eager students, the next wave of leaders in the Philippine hospitality industry. The atmosphere was electric, filled with a sense of promise and curiosity. These students weren't just fulfilling an academic requirement; they were there because they were committed to their future careers. Their enthusiasm was palpable, and it wasn't just a one-way street. Their insightful questions and genuine engagement not only made my experience rewarding but also reminded me that the future of the industry is in capable hands.

The Cycle of Giving and Receiving

The Cycle of Giving and Receiving  This speaking engagement was more than just an opportunity to share my insights; it was a poignant reminder of the power of giving back. When you find yourself in a position to contribute—whether it's through knowledge, resources, or time—don't hesitate. The fulfillment that comes from positively impacting someone else's life is beyond measure. It's a two-way street; as much as you give, you receive in the form of gratitude, inspiration, and a renewed sense of purpose.  But the cycle doesn't stop with you. As you move forward in your own life journey, carry this principle with you: Always pay it forward. It's not just about reciprocating what you've received; it's about creating a chain reaction of goodwill and positive impact. Whether you're mentoring someone, volunteering your skills, or simply offering a listening ear, your actions have the power to create ripples. These ripples, in turn, contribute to collective betterment, making the world a slightly kinder, more understanding place to live.