NIGHT OWL
When I first embarked on my entrepreneurial journey, I had the passion and a clear vision for the kind of impact I wanted to create. What I lacked was a reliable support system—an incubator where my ideas could take shape in a holistic, resource-rich environment. Enter LSE Generate, the London School of Economics’ entrepreneurship center, led by LJ Silverman, which has been a pivotal force in turning my vision for NightOwlGPT into a reality. Today, I am honored to serve as a country ambassador for LSE Generate in the Philippines, alongside the unwavering support of Senator Mark Villar, who has championed our expansion in the region.
NightOwlGPT began as a response to a growing global challenge: how to preserve endangered languages and bridge the digital divide in marginalized communities. I had a deep belief that every language is worth saving, not just for historical or cultural reasons, but to ensure that entire communities are not left behind as technology continues to advance. Yet, as most entrepreneurs know, turning such an idea into a viable venture requires more than just conviction; it demands practical tools, strategic guidance, and supportive networks—all of which I found at LSE Generate.
From the moment I stepped into their co-working space, I was welcomed into a dynamic, collaborative ecosystem. Mentors at LSE Generate were instrumental in refining my pitch, helping me frame NightOwlGPT as both a socially responsible and investable venture. I received valuable feedback on everything from pricing models to user experience design, ensuring my product resonated with both local stakeholders and international partners. Moreover, the center’s structured workshops demystified the financing landscape and taught me how to navigate critical challenges such as scaling sustainably and forging meaningful partnerships.
Another defining element of my journey has been the community LSE Generate fosters. Their mission goes well beyond offering resources; it’s about building a network of like-minded entrepreneurs and alumni who share experiences, pitfalls, and success stories. I’ve met fellow founders working on equally groundbreaking ventures, from fintech solutions tackling financial exclusion to agritech startups revolutionizing sustainable farming. These encounters nurtured a spirit of cross-pollination, where our collective strengths—diverse backgrounds, technical knowledge, and industry insights—propelled each other forward.
LSE Generate’s vision also extends across borders, most recently through the launch of its Southeast Asia cluster focusing on the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Being a proud Philippine native, I’m thrilled not only to see LSE Generate spotlight the rich potential of our region, but also to officially serve as an ambassador for these efforts. Our communities brim with ingenuity and resilience, often addressing critical issues such as climate change adaptation, community healthcare, and financial inclusion. By localizing their efforts through partnerships with institutions like VistaLand, LSE Generate is not only empowering regional entrepreneurs but also strengthening networks between Southeast Asia and the global stage. It is through this kind of collaboration—and crucial support from leaders like Senator Mark Villar—that our entrepreneurial ecosystem can continue to grow.
For me personally, this expansion marks the next phase of NightOwlGPT, enabling even broader collaboration with innovators who share our mission to democratize technology. It also stands as an open invitation to aspiring changemakers across Southeast Asia: with the right support system, a great idea can become a game-changer.
In essence, LSE Generate has helped turn a passionate vision into a tangible venture. From mentorship and funding opportunities to a robust entrepreneurial community, the center provided every crucial piece of the puzzle. Now, as NightOwlGPT continues to grow, I look forward to paying this support forward—both in my role as a founder and as a country ambassador. Whether it’s through mentoring new founders or championing events that engage local youth in STEM, I’m committed to helping the next generation of innovators find their own path—just as I did, thanks to LSE Generate, LJ Silverman, and Senator Mark Villar.