Being out of school doesn’t mean young people are lost or without purpose. With the right support, out-of-school youths (OSYs) can learn new skills, find direction, and work toward success.
Recently, a group of OSYs trained by FWD Life Insurance showed off their financial and business skills at the 2025 Dreamers’ Pop-Up Bazaar held at Glorietta, Ayala Center in Makati City. The two-day event was open to the public and was part of the “It’s My Dream” program, a joint effort by FWD Philippines and Junior Achievement of the Philippines (JA Philippines). This program helps OSYs develop entrepreneurial skills to build better futures.
Antonio Manuel “Jumbing” de Rosas, President and CEO of FWD Philippines, said the youth are key to the country’s future. He emphasized that the program aims to empower young people to become agents of change who can support themselves, their families, and their communities.
This year, more OSYs took part in the program. The products sold at the bazaar were sourced by the participants from local businesses as part of their hands-on training.
Krishna Alejandrino, Executive Director of JA Philippines, highlighted how financial literacy can transform young lives. He said giving youth practical skills and real-world knowledge builds their confidence and helps them achieve financial independence. He expressed excitement about seeing these young dreamers take control of their futures and create better opportunities.
The “It’s My Dream” program is part of the larger JA SparktheDream financial literacy initiative launched in 2023 by FWD Group and JA Asia Pacific.
