Get to know the Glenfiddich WHERE NEXT CLUB and the five participating startups below!
Since 1887, Glenfiddich, the world’s most-awarded single-malt Scotch whisky, has been adding excitement to gatherings and celebrations. This premium, family-owned heritage brand ultimately strives to impart the brand’s heart and core values: living out passions and creating positive and lasting change for the next generation.
Glenfiddich sets a path for others to follow throughout its rich history by asking the question “Where next?” This inspired the creation of its WHERE NEXT CLUB Program, “a stepping stone for entrepreneurs and businesses embodying the core values of the brand,” shares Kate Osmillo, Philippine Brand Ambassador for William Grant and Sons. It aims to unleash the maverick spirit in everyone by inspiring them to break boundaries and be better, both in their personal and professional lives.
This time around, the program was developed to search for an innovative startup ready to scale up and create a lasting impact in the Philippines and the world. Get to know the Glenfiddich WHERE NEXT CLUB panel and the five participating startups below!
The Glenfiddich WHERE NEXT CLUB panel
Glenfiddich is proud to partner with three esteemed industry trailblazers, namely Manny Ayala (Managing Director of Endeavor PH), Anne Gonzales (Co-founder and President of Terry S.A) and Martin Cu (Partner of 500 Global). They helped pick the “Breakthrough Maverick” startup for this year’s WHERE NEXT CLUB program. These Filipino leaders embody the brand’s core values and will provide one-on-one mentorship to elevate the chosen startup to the next level.
The Maverick startups
Last November 2023, five shortlisted startups—namely AlliedHealth Academics, DOON, GoGym, Mayani and Parlon—underwent a rigorous presentation in front of the esteemed panel of judges to determine the “Breakthrough Maverick startup of 2023” for the Glenfiddich WHERE NEXT CLUB.
AlliedHealth Academics revolutionizes the education of Filipino allied healthcare professionals. Led by Maria Borras and Carla Cuadro, this affordable and accessible platform allows both healthcare students and professionals to enhance their skills anytime and anywhere.
DOON Transport Technologies, Inc. is the first fully insured peer-to-peer car-sharing marketplace in the Philippines. Created by Enrique Hormillo and Miguel Locsin, this venture aims to have a seamless and accessible way for people to find the perfect vehicle to rent.
GoGym is your neighborhood technology-enabled pocket gym. With Jay Magsaysay and Felicia Perez at the helm, it aims to bring a better and healthier lifestyle to every barangay in the Philippines at an affordable price.
MAYANI transforms the lives of Filipino farmers through technology, specifically e-commerce. Led by JT Solis and Josef Amarra, MAYANI ensures that our farmers’ hard work is recognized and their high-quality produce is accessible to everyone through a digital supply chain.
Last but not least, Parlon Wellness and Beauty Technologies Inc. is creating the largest beauty discovery and fintech platform in Southeast Asia. Founded by Claire Ongcangco and Miko Cornejo, this platform enables people to discover, book and buy best-in-price salon and wellness services online.
After all the pitches, MAYANI was unanimously selected as the Breakthrough Maverick startup of 2023 for Glenfiddich’s WHERE NEXT CLUB due to their comprehensive presentation and solutions to the very timely problem of food security in the country. They were awarded in the culminating event held last January 11 at Rockwell’s Balmori Tent, with esteemed Philippine start-up and business community members in attendance. MAYANI also received a million peso non-equity dilutive grant as well as mentorship from the esteemed panel.
After accepting the award, the MAYANI team dedicated their victory to the Philippine farmers and fisherfolk, championing them as unsung heroes of the country. Josef Amarra, MAYANI’s Co-founder, shares, “I hope we remember our farmers and fisherfolk. I hope that in the future, Filipinos empower the local food industry and consider their harvests instead of heavily relying on foreign imports while the local harvest goes to waste.”
While this year’s program just ended, bigger and better things are up ahead for the Glenfiddich WHERE NEXT CLUB this 2024—a testament to the Maverick mindset, wherein reaching the top is just the beginning.
Copy MJ Viernes
Photos Glenfiddich
Art Macky Arquilla
