Alumni Spotlight: Elvin Jerome Austria Laceda, CEO and Founder of RiceUp Farmers Incorporated

Alumni Spotlight: Elvin Jerome Austria Laceda, CEO and Founder of RiceUp Farmers Incorporated

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We are thrilled to feature Elvin Jerome Austria Laceda, an exceptional individual whose commitment to social entrepreneurship and agricultural innovation has left an indelible mark on the Filipino farming community.

Elvin is the CEO and Founder of RiceUp Farmers Incorporated, a pioneering initiative dedicated to transforming farmers into entrepreneurs. His journey is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and a vision for positive change.

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Jerome Austria Laceda – Background and Education

Elvin’s journey began in Lubao, Pampanga, Philippines, where he witnessed the challenges and joys of farming from a young age. A lifelong learner, Elvin pursued higher education at Brigham Young University – Hawaii, obtaining a Bachelor’s in Political Science and Government. His diverse educational background includes Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations, Biology, and Agricultural Engineering studies.

RiceUp Farmers Incorporated

Founded in 2016, RiceUp Farmers Incorporated empowers farmers to become entrepreneurs through innovative programs and initiatives. Elvin’s vision for RiceUp extends beyond traditional farming, incorporating high-value crops, digital marketing, and market-driven production strategies.

Elvin Jerome Austria Laceda, speaks to 108 farmers successfully finished RiceUp's Agribusiness Training Program, breaking barriers to achieve lasting peace in Hacienda Luisita.
Elvin Jerome Austria Laceda speaks to 108 farmers who successfully finished RiceUp’s Agribusiness Training Program, breaking barriers to achieve lasting peace in Hacienda Luisita.

Noteworthy Achievements

Elvin’s impactful work has garnered recognition and accolades, including the Golden Harvest Award, the Global Student Entrepreneur Award in 2017, and the Enactus Emerging Leader of the Year. His commitment to social change and advocacy has positioned RiceUp Farmers as a key player in reshaping the agricultural landscape in the Philippines.

Building Bridges with the Government

Elvin’s strategic collaborations extend to the government sector, where he serves as an Ambassador for the Department of Agriculture in the Philippines. Through his role as National President of the Young Farmers Challenge Club of the Philippines Inc., Elvin actively contributes to policy discussions and initiatives aimed at addressing the challenges faced by Filipino farmers.

Innovative Approaches

RiceUp’s unique model includes translating their curriculum into local languages, fostering better understanding and engagement among diverse farming communities. Elvin’s dedication to bridging gaps in the supply chain has led to partnerships with major retailers, including Landers and Philippine Airlines, ensuring direct access to markets for the farmers he supports.

Global Impact Of RiceUp Farmers Incorporated

Elvin’s efforts have not gone unnoticed on the international stage. The European Union recently recognized RiceUp Farmers for its forward-thinking approach to agriculture, especially its ability to project market needs months in advance. This recognition underscores Elvin’s commitment to sustainable and market-driven agricultural practices.

Elvin Jerome Austria Laceda also served as a guest speaker at the BYU MS Asia Conference 2023 in the Philippines, where he discussed topics including RiceUp Farmers Inc and more.
Elvin Jerome Austria Laceda also served as a guest speaker at the BYU MS Asia Conference 2023 in the Philippines, where he discussed topics including RiceUp Farmers Inc and more.

Empowering the Next Generation

In addition to his work with RiceUp Farmers, Elvin is deeply involved in youth ministry and serves as a Motivational Speaker. He actively participates in programs like “From a Youth Perspective” and “Jump in the River,” inspiring the younger generation to participate actively in positive change.

Learn more about RiceUp Farmers by clicking here.

At the Brigham Young University Management Society, one of our focuses is on moral and ethical leadership. For moral and ethical leadership, we strive to help build servant leaders worldwide. We understand that organizations worldwide would be better if more servant leaders existed.

To find a chapter near you, check out the BYU Management Society website by clicking here.

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Please help us build leaders, change lives, and make a difference by giving now. You can learn more about how to give to BYU MS Asia by clicking here.

New Young Professionals Career Engagement Program

The Young Professionals Career Engagement Program aims to help young adults select and jumpstart their careers by connecting with and learning from professionals in their field of interest.

These professionals will share their career experiences and knowledge with young adults to help them prepare to enter the workforce as confident, committed, and ethical professionals. There is no cost to participate in this program.

You can discover more by reading New Young Professionals Career Engagement Program by clicking here.

How To Set A Smart Goal And Other Area Chapter Events Highlights

During these last months, some of our chapters had many unique events. We are so proud of our chapter leaders and all they do to help serve and help the people in their areas.

The focus of BYU MS for our area is personal development, professional development, and moral and ethical leadership. Each of these programs from our chapter aligned with these BYU MS Asia focus areas.

You can discover more by reading How To Set A Smart Goal And Other Area Chapter Events Highlights by clicking here.

Karen De la Cruz
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