MANILA, Philippines - Our country, like in other places should pay tribute to our entrepreneurs whose guts and fervor have propelled our economy to greater heights. To Filipinos whose amazing determination and daring spirits have transformed their dreams and visions into reality. Not only to those entrepreneurs who are based in urban areas like Metro Manila but to those entrepreneurs in the countryside who are daring to pursue their business pursuits in the face of obstacles, setbacks and catastrophes.
Each entrepreneur has an inspiring story to tell. Each entrepreneur has a unique business experience worth learning about and reflecting about. Each entrepreneur is an integral part of the entrepreneurial revolution that is going on here and worldwide. It is the entrepreneurial creativity, innovation, and initiative that has brought about the dynamic changes in the lifestyle of people.
Someone once said that "entrepreneurs are a special breed who dare to dream and to do. Entrepreneurs believe in their ability to influence events, in their capacity to direct destiny, and in their power to shape the future. They have vision coupled with an incredible drive to make their vision a reality."
There is one entrepreneur that comes to mind to many of us now and then. Not a Filipino. But his name is a household word to Filipinos. An American who has transformed the entertainment industry into what we know today. But more than this. This American has improved the quality of life not only in America but in other countries as well. Considered a folk hero of the 20th century, this American has brought joy, and happiness to millions of people. I am referring to Walt Disney who has created lovable animated characters including Mickey Mouse.
Walt Disney possessed one of the most fertile and unique imaginations the world has ever known. Walt Disney died more than forty years ago but people still remember his phenomenal creativity, his innovativeness, and his obsession to entertain other people.
Walt Disney's greatest contribution to the world is his commitment to make life more enjoyable - and fun for other people. Even today people have fond memories of his film Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, the first full-length animated musical feature that was premiered at the Carthay Theater in Los Angeles on December 21, 1937. This film which was shown during the Depression period is considered one of the great feats and lasting monuments of the motion picture industry.
Unknown to many, Walt Disney encountered obstacles on his way to the top. Like many aspiring entrepreneurs. Walt Disney never lost his enthusiasm and faith in himself. His persistence paid off. At the age of forty (40), this successful entrepreneur had more than 1,000 animators, story men, and technicians helping him in his business. Today, Walt Disney's works especially the production of short comedies - are still being used in the US as effective tools to raise civilian and military morale. More than one hundred (100) features were produced by Burbank Studio (Walt Disney's studio outfit ) including the world-acclaimed Mary Poppins.
More than any time in our history - we need an entrepreneurial economy led by a corp of entrepreneurs who have a great passion to create wealth, generate jobs, and to contribute to our economic and social well being. Daring souls who start and build business enterprises by facing head-on the obstacles, challenges and set-backs that come their way. People who never lose hope and optimism.
Have a joyful day!
