While writing business reports on a 1 billion USD investment fund from the state of Qatar into the Philippines back in 2012, I found myself immersed in the bustling city life of Manila. The glitz and glamour, however, couldn't mask the nagging sense that something was amiss. Much of the colossal investment seemed to be funneled into casinos and large-scale projects, seemingly benefiting only a select few. The more I delved into this world, the less it made sense. How much of this could I turn a blind eye to? The breaking point came, and I made the life-altering decision to leave my job.

What followed was a transformative 12 months spent delving into the heart of communities through Gawad Kalinga Community Development Foundation across the Philippines. The contrast between the corporate world and the grassroots communities was stark, yet the stories of struggle and hope resonated deeply. These were narratives that, while not yet making a global impact, were undeniably purposeful. The decision to step away from the corporate hustle into the real stories of the Philippines was drastic, but it sparked a revelation. This journey ignited a passion for connecting with narratives of hope and transformation, leading to the birth of MAD (Make A Difference) Courses.

In an era where values alignment is a driving force behind career choices, our aim is to bridge the gap between companies and meaningful impact. In the fast-paced world of today, job changes are more frequent than ever. Many attribute this shift to a misalignment with their company's values. According to the 2023 Net Positive Employee Barometer, nearly half of employees in the UK and US express a willingness to resign if their personal values don't align with those of their company. This sentiment is not limited to seasoned professionals; the 2023 Gen Z and Millennial Survey by Deloitte reveals that 39% of Gen Z and 34% of Millennials globally have actively turned down job offers from employers whose values do not resonate with their own.

For those who choose to stay, there's a danger of "quiet quitting" – a slow disengagement from their roles. MAD strives to offer an alternative path, where employees can find purpose and connection within their corporate environment. While not everyone can embark on a year-long immersion like I did, MAD envisions a world where employees can engage with stories of change, resilience, and hope. By amplifying the voices of communities globally, we aim to empower companies to not only engage their workforce but also make a tangible difference.

Join us at MAD as we navigate the intersection of corporate values and genuine impact. Our solution involves connecting companies to the work and mission of local community organizations using interactive video technology, creating a choose-your-own-adventure-style learning experience. This innovative approach serves as a training and engagement tool for employees, offering a unique way to align values with impactful action. Let's make 2024 a year of purpose, connection, and transformation.