Well begun is half done…
Abby gives us a sneak peek into her life as Program Associate at Villgro Philippines.
Over the years, I’ve learned more and more about different sectors. I joined student organizations that focused on children’s needs, then I eventually branched out to the environmental sector where I learned how everything had a connection to the natural world. Those two sectors still contribute greatly to how I set my values, who I surround myself with, and how I consciously live my life.
Being a part of the Villgro team has shown me that while I have learned a lot the past few years, all that knowledge is only a tiny speck of all there is to know. What I love most about my job is the countless opportunities for growth and learning. I love learning and I love the idea of knowing there’s always something new to read up on. I’ve been here for less than two months but I’ve already learned more about the housing sector, the importance of improving sexual and reproductive health, and how to better empower women entrepreneurs. It’s incredible. I personally think this is more of what the world needs today — people who can find a way to pay attention to what is lacking in these different sectors, create innovative solutions, and challenge the norm and the system.
I entered Villgro a bit confused and maybe even overwhelmed with all the new information that was available to me. But as I find my footing and get used to my work environment, I am becoming more comfortable with the work and the people I work with. The Villgro team has some of the kindest and most hardworking people I know. They motivate me and inspire my growth not just as a member of the team but also someone who is passionate about creating long-lasting change in the world. It fulfills me knowing that what we do is with and for the people and I can’t wait for Villgro’s future projects to see how else we could expand our scope of work to cater to more sectors in the Philippines and the rest of Southeast Asia.
About the Author: Abby (Abigail Pauline C Ng.), is a Program Associate at Villgro Philippines. She joined the team in August 2020 and has been instrumental in the launch of our first regional program — Habitat for Humanity’s ShelterTech accelerator Southeast Asia. She was also a part of the ReachHealth Innovation Challenge and is a passionate climate change advocate.
Reach her at abby@villgrophilippines.org
