I
hosted the AIESEC Grand Alumni Homecoming last night, which was surprisingly fun!
I never go to homecomings or reunions because honestly I hate them and try
to avoid disgusting people from the past (whom you can't altogether avoid,
unfortunately!) but the crowd at this homecoming was amazing!
I
had the privilege of co-hosting with Joseph Pangilinan, apparently the most
vivacious of the Pangilinan brothers. The evening started with a roll call by decade.
First
we called the Millennials, who did a Spice Girls dance and lip syncing number.
Followed by the pre-millennials (1991 - 2000), led by Cristy Tan and Noni
Mauricio, who did the "Hey AIESEC!" icebreaker. The best roll call though came from the group of the '70s and '80s babies, who chanted the famous "African Love Song":
-->
But that was nothing compared to the rollcall by AIESEC Ateneo founder Sec.
Ernie Ordonez, former Cabinet Secretary for presidential flagship programs;
Undersecretary for the Department of Trade and Industry; and Undersecretary for
the Department of Agriculture. Here
he displays his lighter side alongside Freddie, founder of AIESEC Peru, and
Sammie Lim of the Philippine Franchise Association (start at 00:18).
-->
Note that this energetic performer, as founder of AIESEC Ateneo, created an environment not only of fun but also of leadership and paved the way for generations of pro-active AIESECers dedicated to making a difference.
And don't be misled. The rollcall was just a boost of energy to get the ball rolling for the serious stuff. In
spite of what it seems, it was not all silliness as AIESEC also takes its
mission of "making the world a better place" by utilizing its international
youth network (and now also the young once) seriously.
After
the Welcome Remarks of former AIESEC UP President and now Cavite Governor
Jonvic Remulla, I noted from the speech of Mignon Ramos, President of AIESEC
alumni, that they were able to raise P3 Million to help in Yolanda
rehabilitation efforts, which went to the Red Cross and donations to make bancas
for fishermen in affected areas. The current national president (they call
it MCP now - Member something or other :P) Michael Fua gave a powerpoint
presentation that showed that the same message when we were in college remains
loud and clear and inspiring to the AIESECers of today. And a lovely girl,
April Cuenca, talked about how AIESEC inspired her in college and this (among
other things) led her to create a travel startup that has led her to the
privilege of speaking before the United Nations which she will be doing in a
few days.
After
the serious talks, the program ended with the Harana Boys taking the
stage. Such charmers!
Former
Senator and now agriculture czar Francis Pangilinan, who graced the event with
his presence, had to leave for the concert of Gary V, but elder brother Joseph
stayed for Open Mic Rockeoke to give his own performance of Gary V songs ...
Good
times! This is AIESEC as I remember it :) Now I wonder who was caught sukebe after
the party ;)
