The Empty Suitcase Project

Although Project:A and company are on their way home, the Empty Suitcase Project (started up by Filipino American musician Passion) is something I really hope goes far beyond this initial cause.

This is a project that has been on my heart the past year. A project that’s dear to me and think it could help out the kids in Tanzania in a great way. WITH YOUR HELP!

The first part of the documentary that runs alongside this project lets Passion (Jeremy) talk about it in depth while the subsequent episodes feature various artists (Leejay, Jo Koy, Gabe Bondoc, Quest Crew, Jesse Barrera, AJ Rafael, Wes & Phil of Wong Fu Productions, and more) answering the question: “What was your opportunity when you first started?”

Despite the different genres these artists come from, they all acknowledge that what they do started because of one thing: an opportunity. And what this project can do is be that opportunity for those in real need. In total, Project:A raised over 250kg of pencils, instruments, art supplies & sports equipment towards the four projects (see earlier posts here) and $16,000 USD. Amazing job guys!

Believe International: A Benefit Concert

Over the weekend, I had the opportunity to shoot another benefit on the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) campus for Believe International – an organization driven to “provide educational, values training and leadership opportunities for disadvantaged youth in the Philippines who show a passion to learn and make a difference in society by serving others.” [Via Believe International]

The benefit concert was put together by Filipinos in Alliance (FIA) and Manny Garcia. Not only were some amazing acts brought in for the cause (Melissa Polinar, LeeJay Abucayan and Alfa Garcia) but they collaborated with one another on stage to give us all a really unique sound and a glimpse into what we should all be doing more – working together for something bigger. It’s great to see people aiming for more than their own successes.

Other favorites like TK Proposal, The Roxas Brothers, Ashlee Barrera, Abet Speaks and Alex ‘Excel’ Cruz also graced us with their respective talents. It’s amazing how much talent we can find in Chicago that are willing to put in effort for social cause.

In the end, the concert was a big success. Anthony, it was great chatting with you – I can’t wait to work on more Believe International projects with you and your team! Timmy from TK, you’re hilarious and nice to finally meet you officially…keep doing your thing! Here’s a couple photos from the event:

After the event and despite staying up late night to work on the event program, a bunch of us decided to hit up Ken Kee in Chinatown for some late night celebration eats. Thumbs up!

And I just have to give a special shoutout to Melissa, Leejay and Alfa – you guys are AMAZING and it was a blast hanging with you guys over the weekend! I really hope we can all get together and hang out again soon! And Melissa, huge thanks for the shout out again and playing one of my favorite songs! :smiles: Until next time!