In the Lion's Den

Written by:
Alexandra Tan Year 13

What does it take to become a successful entrepreneur?

From technological wizards, Bill Gates and Steve Jobs, to media moguls, Ariana Huffington and Oprah, it is evident that the most distinguished entrepreneurs today possess a rare amalgamation of creative genius and an iron fist. Are these God-given gifts? Are successful entrepreneurs simply born with enterprise flowing through their veins? Iconic figures like these set the bar high: a standard that can either inspire or intimidate budding entrepreneurs alike. Entrepreneurship comes with high risks; yes, but also with high potential for reward. Therefore, the million-dollar question remains: what does it take to become a successful entrepreneur?  

Achiever’s International

Introduced into BSM by Business Studies and Economics teacher Ms. Gleaves, Achiever’s International is an ‘online enterprise project’ that gives students an opportunity to hone their entrepreneurial skills by immersing themselves into the world of international business and trade. A group of year 13 students, spearheaded by Managing Directors Beatriz Go and Miguel Ayala, formed a company named The Manila Team (Created by then Public Relations Director Miguel Vera). The Manila Team partnered with international schools overseas, all the way from Dubai to Saudi Arabia. The goal was simple enough: import and export goods to generate a profit.

However, just like any other business venture, The Manila Team’s path to entrepreneurial success was not an easy one. Deciding on a marketable yet cost effective product proved to be a challenge and eventually, the company selected baller bands. The Manila Team oversaw the creation of customized baller bands, which were sold and exported to the partner school. Constant communication with the partner school, though difficult, was crucial in the trading process. In fact, The Manila Team was forced to sever ties with their initial partner school due to poor communication on their part. Financial Director Alexandra Tan describes how, “In order to generate enough capital, we had to convince potential shareholders that The Manila Team was a good investment. Fortunately, we were able to do so and those who believed in us made significant returns to their initial investments.” Evidently, The Manila Team possessed the determination and grit to tackle these inevitable obstacles. By the end of the school year, The Manila Team had generated more than P55,000 in revenue, half of which was donated to the victims of Typhoon Yolanda.

Lion’s Den

Achiever’s International gave The Manila Team a taste of entrepreneurial success. However, this was only the beginning. This year, they’re back, rebranded and more driven than ever before. Aptly renamed ‘Lion’s Den’, the company has shifted their focus to local business opportunities and untapped markets within the BSM community itself.  

Newly appointed CEO Beatriz Go states that, “It’s definitely a risk not being in a set program like before but I believe that Lion’s Den will be much more successful because of the freedom we get in choosing our projects.” One of the major changes this year is the company’s transition into BSM’s first entrepreneurship club, open to all members of the Senior School. The club will be hosting fundraising events (such as a Live Lounge event in October) and guest speakers who will be imparting invaluable firsthand knowledge about entrepreneurship. In addition to this, new members will be taking part in competitions and real life simulations to enhance their entrepreneurial and business management skills. The club’s upcoming project, the importing of UK goods currently unavailable in Manila, is definitely one that everyone should watch out for.

“With a great and determined team in place, expect something big!”

If you are interested in becoming a member of the Lion’s Den, please contact Ms Gleaves or any member of the Lion’s Den Executive Team.

Lion’s Den Executive Team:

CEOs: Miguel Ayala and Beatriz Go

Chief Financial Officer: Alexandra Tan

Chief Operating Officer: Bryan Fong

Head of Business Development: Paco Litonjua

Head of Communications: Lorenzo Siy

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