With nearly 11 million Filipino children and youth currently out of school, access to education remains a pressing challenge in the Philippines. Although tuition in public schools is free, many families are burdened by related expenses such as school supplies, transportation, and daily necessities—often forcing students to abandon their studies.
To help address this gap, award-winning strategic marketing agency TeamAsia continues to advocate for inclusive education through its long-running campaign, My Dream in a Shoebox (MDIAS).
Launched 17 years ago, MDIAS began as a simple yet powerful initiative that collected shoeboxes—now known as dream kits—filled with school supplies to support children’s learning. Over time, the campaign has evolved into a broader education support program, providing not only learning materials but also financial assistance through its Dream Scholarship Assistance Program, along with sustained support for partner organizations.
“We believe that no child should ever have to choose between education and financial hardship,” said Monette Iturralde-Hamlin, Founder and Chairperson of TeamAsia and Co-Chief Dream Builder of MDIAS. “Through MDIAS, we don’t just give tools—we inspire children to dream big and pursue their goals without being held back by a lack of resources.”
MDIAS Shoeboxes and Dream Kits
Expanding Impact Through Partnerships
As part of its continuing growth, MDIAS partnered with Yellow Boat of Hope (YBH), a non-profit organization dedicated to improving access to education for children in remote and underserved communities. Among YBH’s key initiatives are educational e-hubs, which support blended learning by providing reliable internet access and technology resources.
“Working with organizations that share the same vision for education and empowerment allows us to create deeper, more lasting impact,” said Anton Lim, Co-Founder of Yellow Boat of Hope. “Together, we’re opening doors to opportunities that can transform lives and entire communities.”
In 2024 alone, MDIAS raised funds to help establish an educational hub for YBH equipped with six computers, a year of internet service, a printer and supplies, hygiene kits, and logistical support. During the same year, the campaign also distributed more than 5,000 dream kits, including 300 kits given to beneficiaries of Payatas Orione Foundation Inc. (PAOFI) in Quezon City.
Dream Scholarship Assistance Beneficiaries with their Dream Maps form our Community with Yellow Boat of Hope
Inspiring the Next Generation
For many beneficiaries, MDIAS has been life-changing. Charlotte Rosalijos, a PAOFI scholar now working as a process associate in a logistics company, shared how the program influenced her aspirations.
“I was inspired by the story of a MDIAS volunteer who is an accountant,” Rosalijos said. “Seeing her journey made me believe that pursuing accountancy was worth it. Now, I also want to give back by volunteering and becoming part of something bigger.”
Through consistent efforts and strong partnerships, MDIAS has already touched the lives of over 400,000 individuals. The campaign remains committed to expanding its reach and equipping more children with the tools they need to succeed in school and in life.
How to Get Involved
MDIAS invites individuals and organizations to take part in its mission by becoming partners, donors, or volunteers. A donation of PHP 350 sponsors one dream kit, while PHP 3,000 can support a child’s educational needs for an entire school year. Contributions for food, learning materials, and logistical support are also welcome.
More information is available at https://shoeboxcampaign.teamasia.com/donate/.
“All we ask is for people to reflect on what they can do to help build a better future for children,” said Bea Lim, President and CEO of TeamAsia and Co-Chief Dream Builder of MDIAS. “In our own ways, we can help make bigger dreams possible.”
About My Dream in a Shoebox
My Dream in a Shoebox is an annual education campaign led by TeamAsia that aims to provide underprivileged Filipino children with school supplies and learning tools to help them pursue a brighter future. Since its inception, the campaign has distributed dream kits nationwide, laying the groundwork for children to imagine, pursue, and achieve their aspirations. Through collective action and community support, MDIAS continues to empower future leaders to turn their #BrighterRealities and #BiggerDreams into reality.