CHERYL “CHIN” BAUTISTA - JOSON

CHERYL “CHIN”
BAUTISTA – JOSON

As a former trustee of the Assumption Alumnae Association,
I find fulfillment in being able to serve the Assumption Community.

1. Give us an example of a goal you’ve set and how you achieved it.

On March 17, 2020, the Philippines entered a state of lockdown, where almost everything came to a halt. Schools and businesses closed indefinitely. During this unique time, the goal was to ensure people maintained their jobs despite the pandemic’s challenges. How was this achieved? A clear plan was formed before the lockdown, outlining different scenarios. By Friday, people were ready to work from home. Decisions were also made on how to continuously support employees during the lockdown. Activating personnel during the lockdown was easily done. This preparation allowed us not only to survive but also to thrive during the pandemic. A well-thought-out plan considering various situations can assist in reaching any goal. If obstacles emerge, you're prepared to tackle them while staying focused on your objective.

2. Do you have any suggestions on how we can help our beneficiaries?

As a member of the AAA, I think the best way to help the beneficiaries is by empowering the AAA. Having served one term as a trustee made me realize the important role of the AAA for the beneficiary school of Assumption. The annual projects of the AAA get support from the alumnae already. Efforts are
made to bring in new active members which I think can be improved. The supporters of the current projects of the AAA come from the relations of the board members. A way to bring in new active members aside from the current efforts of the AAA, is to allocate projects from the celebrating batches.
For example, the AAA can have an annual activity like an art auction or a fun run to be led by the Silvers of each year. That way, the celebrating batches will have a project to head each year. Projects that are solely for the benefit of the AAA and its beneficiaries.

3. What did you learn about yourself from the pandemic?

The pandemic made me realize that there is so much of myself that I am willing to give because I was surrounded by people who were giving so much more. Over and over again, friends, colleagues, staff, family, peers and many others showed their generosity by giving time, thoughtful messages, “ayudas”,
advice, prayers and many, many more. Aside from being very grateful, I learned that I could give those things as well and I did. I still do. The pandemic made me realize that I have resources, skills and capabilities that I could share and that sharing was easy.