Lenovo’s “People First” program sets it apart as a technology company committed to prioritizing the needs of its customers and employees. This initiative encourages volunteerism, empowering employees to extend care beyond the workplace and make a positive difference in the community.
In today’s fast-paced work environment, it is easy to get caught up in the pursuit of productivity at the expense of employee well-being. It goes without saying that engaged employees make for a happier workplace, producing better results.
“We believe that people are the most important factor to Lenovo’s success,” said Michael Ngan, general manager of Lenovo Philippines. “Even the best strategies will not work unless everyone is at the top of their physical and mental game — this includes feeling inspired to make a difference. Lenovo Philippines is driven by a vision that’s inherently inclusive: Smarter Technology for all. Ultimately, there is no ‘all’ unless the whole community is engaged and well taken care of,” he added.
Keeping this philosophy at its core, Lenovo has created an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and inspired to contribute beyond their professional roles. Some employees who have felt the profound impact of volunteering through the People First program shared their personal stories.
One of the initiatives, in collaboration with One Meralco Foundation’s School Electrification Program, involved donating laptops to school teachers who lack resources. Lenovo Philippines’ Commercial Marketing Manager, Anna Abola, shared a personal reflection on her involvement in the program. “I never knew it was possible to marry my passion for technology with a greater cause until I volunteered in our company’s People First Program. I had the privilege of witnessing the profound impact of this deed, as I observed the excitement on the students’ faces while they explored the Lenovo laptops provided. It helped me realize how a simple act can have far-reaching consequences.”
Additionally, Janine Librea and Leslie Dimayuga-Satumba of Lenovo Philippines expressed how grateful they were to participate in initiatives like this, emphasizing how it has increased their awareness of the needs and challenges underprivileged communities face. Through the program, they had the opportunity to volunteer at a local women’s shelter. Reflecting on this hands-on experience, they shared, “This was an eye-opener for us. Witnessing their resilience inspired us to do more.” Motivated by what they saw, Janine and Leslie took the initiative to organize donation drives within the company. “Their responses were overwhelming, with contributions pouring in not only from the IT department but also from other colleagues. It showed us that even small acts of compassion can have a big impact when we work together. Lenovo’s People First program has made me a champion for those in need,” they added.
Last month, Lenovo teamed up with the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI) for their very first medical mission together. The partnership was established since 2015, with a primary focus on organizing music and dance activities. With the dedication of the volunteer doctors and nurses from the University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital (UP PGH), Lenovo was able to provide medical assistance to around 70 children with Down Syndrome. This achievement encouraged Lenovo Philippines to make this an annual tradition and possibly extend its reach even to senior citizens in marginalized communities.
Ngan remarked that employees are very enthusiastic about volunteering for CSR activities. To date, the company has successfully engaged over 50 employees in its initiatives. Through its People First program, Lenovo Philippines sets an example for other organizations by showing that a culture of care, volunteerism, and enjoyment can coexist to create a thriving and successful workplace.