Oct 08 2024
Sean Coen Benson, a promising student from Ãå±±½ûµØ-IIT, has recently made waves by participating in the Asia Pacific Digital Talent Summit 2024. Pursuing a degree in BS Computer Applications from the College of Computer Studies (CCS), Sean showcased his talent and passion for technology, which ultimately led him to be selected as one of the Filipino delegates for Huawei's prestigious Seeds For The Future 2024 in Shenzhen, China.
According to Sean, it was a long process, responding to Huawei Philippines' call for applications. He applied and was interviewed last July 2024. He was the only delegate from Mindanao among the Top 9 applicants all over the Philippines.
“I am the only delegate who is from Mindanao and being one of the Top 9 applicants all over the Philippines was already an honor. Others are from the country's top universities, and was able to be friends with them,” he said.
This remarkable opportunity allowed Sean to delve into the latest advancements in digital technology and engage with industry leaders. The Seeds For The Future program is designed to nurture young talent, providing them with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the fast-evolving tech landscape. It offered learning sessions from different ICT experts including 5G, Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, and Digital Power. It also offered mentorship sessions from different remarkable entrepreneurs who are into solving pressing world problems through technology with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
At the end of the program, Sean and his fellow delegates presented their technological solutions to different problems, using the knowledge gained from the courses and mentorships. He got to learn about Huawei and its technologies offered to the community, as well as explore their places, especially the Huawei European Town or Huawei Dongguan Campus, and the Huawei Davidson Exhibition Hall.
Apart from the activities during the program, Sean also had the opportunity to engage and immerse in cultural exchanges with other countries.
“While we were wearing our national outfit, we gave some Filipino snacks to anyone who came to our booth. Through the cultural exchange, I met amazing young people from different countries and was able to be friends with them. Maybe, I could now say that I have friends from different Asian countries.”
Sean also highlighted his experience with the Chinese culture where he was in awe of their delicious food and the advanced technology of the country “from electronic payments to electric vehicles and their environment-friendly elevated lifestyles.”
For Sean, this experience not only represented a significant milestone in his academic journey but also served as an ultimate launchpad for his future career in the tech industry.
As he embraces this unique opportunity, Sean is poised to inspire his peers and contribute to the growing digital landscape in Mindanao and the whole Philippines. His story is a testament to the potential of young minds in harnessing technology for a brighter future.