(Image Source: Manila Standard/Starbucks Philippines) |
Starbucks Philippines is no stranger to stirring up more than just your favorite beverages; they’re brewing real change in the community, too. Last September 2023 marked a milestone for the coffee giant as it opened the doors to its first-ever Community Store in Abad Santos, Tondo, Manila. This isn’t just any Starbucks outlet — it’s a beacon of hope and empowerment for the area’s young minds.
Brewing A Brighter Future
In a meaningful partnership with Young Focus and AHA! Learning Center, the Tondo Community Store goes beyond serving coffee; it serves the youth. A slice of every purchase goes directly into scholarships and after-school learning programs for out-of-school youngsters. This initiative shines a light on Starbucks’ commitment to nurturing the community it thrives in, ensuring every sip contributes to a child’s brighter tomorrow.
Education As The Perfect Blend
Starbucks’ Community Store is more than a place for coffee aficionados; it’s a hub for growth and learning. By supporting Young Focus Foundation’s scholarship programs and AHA! Learning Center’s complimentary after-school tutoring, Starbucks is helping mold the future leaders of the Philippines. These programs offer a well-rounded curriculum focusing not just on academic excellence but also on social-emotional development — preparing students for real-world challenges.
Empowering Women, Empowering Communities
In alignment with Women’s Month, the spotlight shines on empowering the women leaders of tomorrow. Starbucks Philippines invited pioneering women from various industries to engage with the youth scholars. These sessions, rich with discussions on mental health, career development, and environmental responsibility, aim to inspire and motivate. It’s about showing these young women that their dreams have no limits, and their gender is not a barrier to success.
Starbucks Philippines Senior Manager for Marketing, Digital Customer Experience & Loyalty Jamie Silva (Image Source: ClickTheCity.com/Starbucks Philippines) |
Lynn Pinugu, founder of Mano Amiga Philippines and She Talks Asia (Image Source: ClickTheCity.com/Starbucks Philippines) |
Multi-awarded Filipina filmmaker Antoinette Jadaone (Image Source: ClickTheCity.com/Starbucks Philippines) |
Visual artist Anina Rubio (Image Source: ClickTheCity.com/Starbucks Philippines) |
A Toast To The Future
Starbucks Philippines envisions its Community Store as more than a place for coffee; it’s a ground for cultivating dreams and ambitions. Jamie Silva, reflecting on the initiative, emphasized the importance of education in shaping a generation capable of breaking norms and pursuing their passions fearlessly. Starbucks’ dedication to this cause underscores a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of community support and education. “Our Community Store’s dedication to youth education underscores our mission to make a meaningful impact on the next generation within our local communities. As we celebrate International Women’s Day and honor our future leaders, it’s crucial to recognize the pivotal role education plays in shaping progressive thinkers and empowering women to break free from societal constraints, allowing them to excel in their endeavors and pursue their passions," says Silva.
Join The Movement
Witness firsthand how your cup of coffee can change lives. For more behind-the-scenes looks at Starbucks Philippines’ community-driven efforts and to stay updated on their upcoming events and initiatives, make sure to visit starbucks.ph/stories and follow them across all social media platforms. By choosing Starbucks, you’re not just picking a coffee; you’re picking a cause. Together, let’s brew a difference, one cup at a time.