De La Salle College of Saint Benilde is set to host the inaugural edition of Benilde Open Design + Art, a series of compelling public programs featuring leading figures from the creative industry. From June 25 to 28, the Design + Arts Campus will be abuzz with discussions and workshops aimed at exploring the future of creativity, innovation, and collaboration in the Philippines.

June 25: #thefutureiscreative

Kicking off the event on June 25 is a conversation titled #thefutureiscreative. This session will bring together prominent local trailblazers to explore the current landscape of the creative industries in the Philippines. Speakers will share insights on trends, challenges, and opportunities, offering participants a glimpse into the future trajectory of creativity and innovation within the local context. The panel features Toff De Venecia, House of Representatives member for the 4th district of Pangasinan; Pauline Juan, former executive director for the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM); and Erwin Romulo, writer, editor, music producer, and creative consultant. The discussion will be moderated by Andrei Pamintuan of British Council Philippines.

June 26: Unleashing Unicorns: The Quest for PH Success Stories

On June 26, the program will present Unleashing Unicorns: The Quest for PH Success Stories. This discussion will delve into the journey of discovering and nurturing the next wave of billion-dollar startups, particularly those in artistic and creative fields. Esteemed speakers will share their extensive experience and proven strategies for identifying high-potential startups and navigating the complex world of venture capital and startup investment. The panel includes Jojo Flores, co-founder of Plug and Play Tech Center and Launchgarage Innovation Hub; Jay Fajardo, executive director of Ideaspace Ventures and QBO Innovation; Franco Varona, managing partner of Foxmont Capital Partners; and Paulo Campos, founding managing general partner of Kaya Founders.

June 28: Working with Local Artisans and Indigenous Peoples in Design

June 28 will feature a unique conversation hosted by Benilde Open grantee Rambie Lim and Mahalina Foundation president Dr. Patricia Araneta. Titled Consider their rights! Working with Local Artisans and Indigenous Peoples in Design, the discussion will focus on the rights and cultural safeguarding of artisans and indigenous peoples (IPs) in collaborative creative projects. They will be joined by a lawyer specializing in intellectual property rights to provide a comprehensive perspective on the topic.

Additionally, on June 28, architect Katz Odulio of Kronos Design Studio will conduct a workshop titled How to Make a Great Place. Participants will be invited to reimagine existing spaces within De La Salle College of Saint Benilde, guided by the question, “What can YOU do here?”

All exhibitions under Benilde Open Design + Art will be available for viewing until June 29, 2024, from 10am to 5pm.

Related Read: Benilde Open Design + Art 2024 Allows You To Embrace the CURIOUS Mindset

Photos courtesy of Benilde Open

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