From OFW to Agripreneur: UF Vanilla Farm Founder Wins 2025 Inspiring Balik-Bayan Award

(Based on the original report by 12Beat)

Melvin R. Awid, founder of UF Vanilla Farm, was recognized as one of the awardees of the 2025 Inspiring Balik-Bayan Awards during the Balik-Bayan Summit held on December 6 at SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

(Image from 12Beat’s official Facebook post)

Awid, a young agripreneur from Maitum, Sarangani Province, was honored under the category Inspiring Balik-Bayan Entrepreneurs, a distinction given to former Overseas Filipino Workers who have successfully transitioned into entrepreneurship after returning to the Philippines.

In a social media post, Awid expressed his appreciation to the individuals and organizations that supported his journey. He shared that coming from a background as a former seafarer, he never imagined becoming part of programs led by the Department of Migrant Workers and the National Reintegration Center for OFWs, which helped him pursue his entrepreneurial aspirations.

He also described being mentored by Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepción as a significant milestone, noting that the experience strengthened his commitment to innovation, growth, and long-term development in business.

The Inspiring Balik-Bayan Awards, organized annually by Go Negosyo, recognize the achievements of returning OFWs who have built sustainable enterprises and aim to inspire others to explore business opportunities in their home country.