Last September 19, 2024, Cagayan de Oro’s tech and business landscape took a significant step forward as dynamic IT professionals gathered for an insightful session titled “Managing the Millennial and Gen Z Workforce” at the Capitol University Theater. The session was headlined by no less than Jonathan Yabut, famously known as “Asia’s Millennial Guru” and the first winner of The Apprentice Asia. The event was brought to us by the Cagayan de Oro ICT Business Council, composed of companies and organizations including Support Zebra, Capitol University, Syntactics, Innovuze Solutions Inc., Parasat HD, Qualfon Philippines, and Hyperstacks. Other sponsors included Chang Tea, Lamugba, and Learner’s Ville.
Empowering Leadership for the New Era
This high-impact event focused on the evolving dynamics of the modern office, providing local leaders with the tools needed to thrive in a multi-generational professional environment. Organized through a powerhouse collaboration between the Cagayan de Oro ICT Business Council and SupportZebra, the event aimed to decode the motivations and work styles of younger generations.
The session was held at the, where the setting matched the high energy of the attendees. This event was made possible through the support of the local tech ecosystem, underscoring the community’s shared commitment to fostering a forward-thinking work culture in Northern Mindanao.
Actionable Insights and Fresh Perspectives
The atmosphere was electric as participants engaged in deep dives into leadership strategies. Jonathan Yabut shared invaluable advice on how to empower Millennial and Gen Z talent, focusing on transparency, purpose-driven work, and digital-first communication.
Photo from Cagayan de Oro ICT Business Council’s FB post: Jonathan Yabut speaking with participants from various ICT firms Capitol University Mini Theater
Throughout the day, attendees explored how to pivot from traditional “command and control” management to a more collaborative and empathetic leadership style. The session wasn’t just a lecture; it was a vibrant exchange of ideas where participants shared their own challenges and success stories in managing diverse teams.
Gen-Z style group selfie Jonathan Yabut, representatives from CDO ICT Business Council, SupportZebra and the rest of participants
A Bright Future for CDO’s Tech Talent
The event concluded on a high note, with leaders leaving the venue energized and equipped with fresh perspectives that they can apply back at the workplace with their team. The success of “Managing the Millennial and Gen Z Workforce” serves as a testament to the growing maturity of the Cagayan de Oro business community. By investing in leadership development and understanding the nuances of the younger workforce, the city is well-positioned to remain a competitive hub for talent and innovation. We look forward to more sessions that challenge our growth and enhance our skills for the future!
