SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – EdukSine USA, a pioneering platform in Filipino cinema and education, proudly achieved third place in the prestigious Dream Bigger Challenge 2024, held at Silicon Valley’s Plug and Play Tech Center on October 25, 2024. Competing alongside ten innovative startups from across the United States, EdukSine shined for its commitment to bridging cultural gaps and enriching Filipino communities through accessible cinema. With this debut U.S. win, EdukSine secured $5,000 in cash and service prizes, further fueling its mission.
Founder and CEO Karen Jane Salutan-Krukover dedicated this milestone to her late parents, her team, and her earliest supporters, the first ticket-sellers who believed in her vision. “This journey has always been for them,” she shared. “EdukSine was born from a dream to unite Filipinos everywhere through the transformative power of education and cinema, especially those in underserved regions without theater access.” This recognition is a powerful affirmation of EdukSine’s role in cultural and social empowerment through Filipino film.
Karen extended deep gratitude to the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco, especially Consul General Neil Ferrer, Consul Rowena Pangilinan-Daquipil, Trade Commissioner Kristine Umali, and Ms. Soleil Tropicales from the Department of Tourism, who offered invaluable support and encouragement before the competition. A spontaneous pitch practice session with Consul General Ferrer, Consul Rowena, Commissioner Umali, and Ms. Tropicales gave Karen a chance to refine her pitch with the team’s heartfelt feedback. “Their genuine care for EdukSine and belief in our mission provided insights that shaped my presentation,” Karen shared.
The pitch event itself was attended by Consul Rowena and Trade Commissioner Kristine Umali, who, along with other attendees, witnessed EdukSine’s passionate presentation that celebrated Filipino culture and resilience.
Karen also expressed appreciation for EdukSine volunteers Khirsten Rayne Flores and Jhayvee Mañabo, whose creative talents transformed the pitch deck, beautifully capturing EdukSine’s mission. “Their dedication brought our story to life visually and emotionally, showing just how much we are here to serve and uplift Filipino communities,”
EdukSine’s journey has been about turning dreams into reality. Founded to bridge the gap between independent Filipino filmmakers and audiences across the Philippines, particularly in remote communities, EdukSine combines accessible cinema with social entrepreneurship to make Filipino films culturally nourishing and widely available. Through its hybrid model of online and community block screenings, EdukSine continues to enrich lives and foster national pride among Filipinos everywhere.
Karen also extended her gratitude to Dream Bigger Founder Christeen Rico Green and her team for creating a platform that amplifies startups dedicated to impact-driven change. This year’s challenge celebrated the achievements of startups like Liveritas, a pharmaceutical company that took first place, and Jeepney, a restaurant concept that placed second.
“The support we’re receiving from both the Philippines and the U.S. reinforces our belief in EdukSine’s vision,” Karen said. “Through education and cinema, we are bringing dreams to life, honoring our heritage, and uplifting lives.”
About EdukSine
EdukSine, founded by Karen Jane Salutan-Krukover, is a social enterprise dedicated to making Filipino films accessible to all. Blending education, technology and inclusivity with cultural cinema, EdukSine connects independent filmmakers with audiences, especially in underserved communities. Through its hybrid model, EdukSine enables viewers to experience Filipino stories that inspire, educate, and foster national pride.
Media Contact
EdukSine USA
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.eduksine.com