“We often hear that the Philippines lagged behind in subjects like Math, Reading and English. However, our recent successes have proven that we are not weak in these areas. We have the capacity to change that perception.”
Many people regard mathematics as the waterloo in school.
Today, however, learners can enhance their mathematical skills through mental learning.
Ivy Sato, chief executive officer (CEO) of Aloha (Abacus Learning of Higher Education) Mental Arithmetic, was introduced to the program in 2016. She was in Bangladesh, where she initially came across the operations that boost children's arithmetic skills.
“They introduced me to Aloha and took me to a classroom where I witnessed exceptionally talented children,” Sato recalled. “I was truly impressed by their ability to answer questions. It made me wonder why there isn't a similar program like that in the Philippines. Why am I only discovering that now?
“In December 2017, I committed to the Aloha Mental Arithmetic master license and officially commenced operations in March 2018.”
During a national academic competition in India in 2017, Sato witnessed firsthand how the events were conducted. She discovered that young Filipinos could unlock their full potentials and make a significant impact in the global arena with Aloha Mental Arithmetic.
Aloha Mental Arithmetic is a holistic brain development program based on the mental arithmetic system that exercises the mental development of young students.
It is a form of training that will enhance a child's ability to calculate without the aid of any instrument — no pen, no paper and definitely, no calculator.
The program is in over 5,500 centers in more than 45 countries.
“We organize healthy competitions in various levels, including regional, national and international contests,” Sato informed. “It was inspiring to see the participants' pride and confidence, especially when they discussed the selection for the international competition.
“Being able to represent our country in the international stage fills us with pride. Additionally, these competitions garner global recognition for the Philippines and instills a strong sense of patriotism among the participating children.”
Filipino students recently joined the 2023 Aloha International Competition in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and won medals for the Philippines. Sato took great pride when she saw her students bring honor to the country.
“I am overjoyed and filled with pride at the success of our participants,” Sato admitted. “This year, in particular, we had two grand champions, one champion and one second runner-up, which is an outstanding achievement.
“Our fellow countrymen also share in the pride of our accomplishments. The presence and support of the Embassy of the Philippines in Malaysia at the event added to our sense of achievement.
“We often hear that the Philippines lagged behind in subjects like Math, Reading and English. However, our recent successes have proven that we are not weak in these areas.
“We have the capacity to change that perception. Through our intervention programs, the Philippines can collaborate with other countries, contributing to a positive change in our national image and academic performance.”
Study destination
Prior to starting Aloha Mental Arithmetic Philippines, Sato and her team were actively promoting the Philippines as an attractive study destination for foreign students. “It was during that effort that I came across Aloha,” Sato asserted.
“While showcasing the natural beauty of the Philippines is important, it is equally crucial to demonstrate the excellence and capabilities of Filipinos. This approach will contribute significantly to positioning the Philippines as a desirable study destination.
“During my travels within the Philippines, I observed the concerns of schools and parents. It became evident that Aloha could address those concerns effectively. What sets Aloha apart is its holistic approach to mental math and brain development.
“Unlike traditional tutorials that focus solely on homework or advanced studies in specific subjects, Aloha offers comprehensive training that enhances a child's cognitive abilities, benefiting them not only in Math but in all subjects.”
After only five years, Sato has become accomplished with the Aloha Mental Arithmetic Philippines program passing it on to children who eventually excelled in math.
“We recognize that there's still a significant journey ahead, particularly considering the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic,” she said. “Even as we slowly return to normalcy, the pandemic has underscored the importance of programs like ours.
“We've also identified alternative approaches to reach a broader audience, not just directly but also through partnerships with schools, foundations, communities and even local government units (LGUs). By collaborating with these entities, we can extend our support to more parents and students, and create a community engagement.
“It's truly gratifying to witness the positive impact we've had. Seeing students excel and become grand champions in mental math is a source of pride, as it boosts their confidence and fosters a deeper desire for learning.”
Despite Aloha's established presence in other countries, introducing and promoting it in the Philippines required dedicated efforts for Sato and her team.
“Our promise was to deliver immediate and visually guaranteed results through the program,” she explained. “Even in the midst of the pandemic, we persevered by offering live online classes and maintaining the Aloha program.
“It's noteworthy that we received feedback from parents indicating that the results from online classes were at par with those from face-to-face classes, showcasing the program's adaptability and effectiveness.”
In 2019, there was an Aloha regional competition in Olongapo.
“The parents took great pride in their children's achievements and offered unwavering support,” Sato shared. “The children were encouraged by their parents to showcase their talents and skills.
“That competition also served to strengthen the bonds between parents and children, and created an engagement in the community. As a parent, witnessing your child's confidence in tackling challenges is incredibly rewarding.”
Running a business is a “round-the-clock endeavor” for Sato. “But I always strive to find some 'me time' and quality family time,” she stressed. “I make an effort to attend training sessions to enhance my personal growth as I work on building a brand and managing a team.”
During Sato's visit to her grandmother's place, she makes sure to spend quality time with her.
“I also accompany my son for his needs, and we often enjoy dining out together,” she said. “I take the opportunity to pamper myself with a spa and salon visit, providing a chance for relaxation.
“Family vacations are a cherished part of our routine. Additionally, I prioritize attending Sunday worship services and allocate time for exercise to maintain a healthy body and mind.”
Sato completed her studies at Southville Foreign University, where she undertook hospitality management, a pathway program in the United Kingdom.
“I finished the course in 2009, which led to a postgraduate diploma in strategic management and leadership through OTHM (Organization for Tourism and Hospitality Management) UK (United Kingdom). Following that, I pursued a top-up Master's in Business Administration (MBA) at the University of Chichester UK.”
Sato has two significant figures whom she looks up to in life. “The first is my grandmother, who is a repository of knowledge and wisdom,” she proudly said. “When I visit her, I ensure that we engage in meaningful conversations to tap into her wealth of experience.
“My upbringing was greatly influenced by my grandparents, and I was introduced to the world of entrepreneurship at a young age. They managed various businesses during my childhood and that exposure taught me the fundamentals of business operations.”
The second person Sato highly admires is Ms. Kiran Motwani, who presently serves as international director of Aloha.
“Her journey to that role began as a mother facing significant challenges with her son's behavior and academic performance,” Sato shared. “Her son's situation had reached a critical point and he was even recommended for medication as a solution. Ms. Kiran, as a devoted parent, provided unwavering love and support to her child.
“Ms. Motwani and her family were residing in Spain. It was in India where they first discovered Aloha.
“When she enrolled her son in the program, she was overjoyed to witness his newfound excitement for learning. He no longer experienced boredom, lacked of attention or quickly forgot what was taught. The program had a profound and positive impact on his learning experience.”
The journey of Motwani's son with Aloha continued. He participated in the national competition in India, eventually progressing to the international competition.
“Remarkably, Kiran's son, who previously struggled with his studies, emerged as the grand champion. That extraordinary success ignited Kiran's determination to introduce Aloha to Spain and subsequently expanded its presence to other countries.
“The rest, as they say, is history — a testament to her unwavering dedication and the positive impact of Aloha's educational approach.”
Both of Motwani's children received scholarships in the UK, and today, they have successfully graduated from UK universities. “That achievement underscores the significant impact of Kiran's dedication, combined with Aloha's educational approach, on her family's journey,” Sato shared.
* * *
QUICK QUESTIONS
What is your biggest fear?
My fear is growing old and vanishing from this world without leaving a lasting legacy behind.
What really makes you angry?
When people exhibit negativity without any provocation or reason.
What motivates you to work hard?
My family.
What makes you laugh the most?
I'm a person who finds joy in life's simple pleasures.
What would you do if you won the lotto?
Travel the whole world and help as many people as I can.
If you could share a meal with any individual living or dead, who would they be?
Ramon Ang
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years, I envision myself as part of Aloha's continued growth and success story. Aloha will have made a profound difference in the lives of countless individuals, and we will always be here to serve as partners to parents in nurturing their children's development and education.
What celebrity would you like to meet for a cup of coffee?
Marian Rivera-Dantes
What is the most daring thing you have ever done?
Travel in India alone.
What is the one thing you will never do again?
To trust people easily.
Be the first to comment