ANGAT INITIATIVE INC
ABOUT US
What does "Angat" mean?
"Angat" is a Filipino word that translates to "elevate" or "lift" in English. It encapsulates our organization’s mission to uplift underprivileged Filipino children through educational opportunities and mentorship. The term reflects the organization's commitment to raising the prospects of these children, providing them with the necessary support to rise above their circumstances, and propelling them towards academic and professional success. By integrating "Angat" into our name, we honor our cultural roots and affirm our dedication to elevating the educational standards and quality of life for the children we serve.
OUR TEAM
MICHAEL FAJARDO
Founder and Executive Director
Michael's story is a testament to the transformative power of education. Raised in a small farming community in the Philippines, his life was rooted in the simplicity of rural living. His father, a farmer and motorcycle driver, and his mother, an elementary school teacher, cultivated in Michael a deep appreciation for learning from an early age. Their encouragement to dream big and their unwavering support set Michael on a path of ambition and resilience.
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Despite modest means, Michael's journey was enriched by the support of his extended family, scholarships, and the invaluable generosity of mentors. This network of support enabled him to attend prestigious institutions, beginning with Ateneo de Manila University where he earned his bachelor's degree in Management Engineering. His academic pursuits continued across continents, leading him to Fordham University in New York for a master's in International Political Economy and Development, and finally to the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business for an MBA.
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Michael’s educational journey, bridging rural Philippines and the halls of renowned universities, instills hope and exemplifies the boundless opportunities education can unlock. As the founder of Angat Initiative, he is not just sharing his narrative; he is actively paving the way for young Filipinos to write their own stories of success. Michael’s vision through Angat Initiative is clear: to offer a ladder out of poverty and into the world of possibilities through education and mentorship.
MEERA CHANCHANI
Co-founder and Director of Operations
Meera's dedication to uplifting the lives of young Filipinos through education is a reflection of her shared roots and aspirations with Michael, Angat Initiative’s founder. Also hailing from the province of Bataan in the Philippines, her path has been one of close parallels with Michael's, having been both high school and university classmates.
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With an innate understanding of the challenges faced by students in her community, Meera brings invaluable local insight to Angat Initiative. As the co-founder, she is the linchpin of the organization's operations on the ground in the Philippines. Her days are spent in the heart of the action — from engaging in dialogues with school administrators to orchestrating impactful meetings with students.
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Meera’s role is pivotal in ensuring that the vision of Angat Initiative translates into tangible experiences and opportunities for the children they serve. Her hands-on approach ensures that the programs are not only relevant and responsive to the needs of the students but also aligned with the educational framework of the region. Her commitment resonates with the heartbeat of Angat Initiative — to be a guiding light and a steady hand for Filipino youth as they journey through their education and beyond. Her passion, coupled with her operational acumen, helps fuel the mission of Angat Initiative: to empower, educate, and elevate.