Helping Southeast Asia's Frontline Workers Flourish
SEA's 137 million frontline workers are the backbone of key industries that sustain our economy and communities—from customer service agents and microfinance officers to healthcare, transportation, F&B, retail, and hospitality workers. These are the unsung heroes who power our lives. The future of work is human!
We are dedicated to empowering millions of workers, just like Markel.
As organizations rapidly grow and embrace digital transformation, including AI, its essential to focus on our "humanness" - such as purpose, values, and fostering strong meaningful connections among each other to drive productivity and innovation.
We believe that this human-centric approach is not only vital to your organization's success but also to the betterment of society as a whole. Let's do this together!
Zhihan, Ellwyn, Tippi
Co-founders of BagoSphere
From India to the Philippines
Ellwyn and Ivan volunteered in Bago City, Philippines, in 2007, and Zhihan interned at India's award-winning Head Held High High Foundation in 2009. They connected over a shared vision: alleviating poverty through rapid training to employment.
We started with 14 students
In 2011, our first cohort graduated, with 13 of them employed in call centers in Bacolod City. Bago means "new" in Filipino, and it is also the name of a tree native to South-East Asia - the Bago Tree (also known as Melinjo), as well as the name of the city that we started, Bago City.
Human Capabilities are critical in a world of A.I.
In 2018, we were recognized by Ashoka, the Obama Foundation, and Vital Voices for our apporach to developing human capabilities and helping people increase confidence, employability and well-being. At the same time, employers say our students stay longer and are more motivated.
Post-Pandemic
12,000 students and beyond
In 2024, we expanded our work in microfinance, F&B and transportation sectors, running programs in 80 different cities in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Today, our work spans across the Philippines.
Join us as we shape the future of work for humans, by humans.
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More ❤️ from our supporters
Since elea's first investment in 2014, I have been impressed by BagoSphere's unique human-centric way of interacting with students. It has created transformational, life-changing opportunities for thousands of youth and stands out as an innovative model for building the skills required in a modern workplace.
Dr Peter Wuffli
Founder and Chairman, elea foundation for Ethics in Globalization
We recognize that people are the heart of every business. Progress and development are achieved when individuals have the right mindsets, skills, and capabilities. Our investment with BagoSphere is a testament to our belief in their role in fostering sustainable communities across the country and beyond.
Suzzette D. Gaston
Executive Director and Co-founder of NWTF
BagoSphere is redefining what career preparation looks like in the 21st century global economy and is equipping disadvantaged youth with the skills, habits and mindsets that are critical to long-term positive outcomes within the modern workforce and in society.
Michael Iyescas
Sr. Manager, Fossil Foundation
“GLP’s unique approach to leadership development helps leaders build inner resilience while also equipping them with practical problem solving tools they can immediately apply in their organizations.”
Dr. Carmela Oracion
Assistant Secretary, Department of Education Philippines
The future of work is human
5th Floor, NWTF Building 102 San Sebastian, Verbena St., Bacolod, 6100 Negros Occidental, Philippines