Ronie Bulawin, Founder & CEO, Cool Geeks
“Challenges are what make life interesting; overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.” This quote perfectly captures the essence of how a stagnant way of living can be the catalyst for profound transformation. When life feels monotonous, it often pushes individuals to open closed doors, envision new possibilities, and step out of their comfort zones. This yearning for change not only creates opportunities for personal growth but also paves the way for broader societal advancements. Bad situations, though daunting, reveal underlying problems that need addressing. It’s in these moments of adversity that ordinary people rise, driven by the urge to make a difference. They become visionaries, seeing beyond the immediate difficulties to find innovative solutions. Embracing change and confronting obstacles head-on, they open doors for themselves as well as for others, turning challenges into stepping stones and creating ripples of positive impact in the world.
Today, we are thrilled to share the inspiring journey of Ronie Bulawin, a visionary entrepreneur who broke conventional norms to make a significant change by founding Cool Geeks Computer System Services, an Internet services provider. This drive comes from his own life experiences, seeing students and neighbours struggle to complete their homework due to unreliable internet access. They often risked their safety travelling long distances to internet cafes just to finish their assignments, highlighting a critical need for better connectivity.
Ronie also witnessed small businesses grappling to reach their target audiences because of poor internet services. The defining moment for Ronie came during the 2019 pandemic, when many areas in the Philippines had no internet access, severely hindering students’ ability to continue their education online. Acknowledging the profound impact a reliable internet could have, Ronie decided to bridge this gap. His efforts go beyond addressing immediate needs; they aim to create lasting change. His work promises to make a significant impact, ensuring that reliable internet access becomes a bridge to education and opportunity for many.
A Tale of Resilience and Community Engagement
Established in 2014, Cool Geeks Computer System Services faced numerous challenges in its early days. Ronie Bulawin, the visionary behind the company, often says, “Navigating the business landscape in the Philippines requires resilience and a philanthropic mindset.” One of the biggest obstacles was the business monopoly and political interference. Politicians, wielding their power, often attempted to bully and hinder progress, exploiting the numerous legal loopholes within the political terrain.
Overcoming these hurdles demanded a strategic approach. Ronie realised the importance of being philanthropic to gain acceptance within the community and navigate the complex legal terrain. By engaging in community service and demonstrating a commitment to social good, Ronie managed to build a network of support and goodwill. Helping Cool Geeks gain traction, this approach also ensured its survival and growth amid a challenging environment. In Ronie’s journey, we witness the power of resilience, strategic thinking, and community engagement in overcoming formidable obstacles.
Professional Commitment and Personal Challenges
With headquarters in Lawaan I Talisay City Cebu, Ronie Bulawin, the founder and CEO of Cool Geeks, leads with a family-oriented approach. Ronie often says, “Leadership is about putting your people first, even when it means stepping back yourself.” The ethos fosters a supportive and nurturing work environment, where employees feel valued and motivated. Sharing his experiences and knowledge, including financial literacy and health assistance, Ronie inspires his team to achieve their goals and grow both personally and professionally.
Balancing entrepreneurship with personal life is notoriously challenging. Ronie acknowledges that there’s no true balance between entrepreneurship and personal life; they often clash. To avoid burnout, he adopts a unique strategy: not getting too attached to his personal life, especially romantic relationships. Maintaining this separation allows Ronie to channel his energy into his business, ensuring sustained focus and dedication. His journey illuminates the importance of prioritising professional commitments while managing personal challenges with resilience.
A Vision for Cool Geeks
For aspiring entrepreneurs embarking on their journey, Ronie Bulawin offers invaluable advice rooted in his own experiences. Understanding the challenges of coming from a financially disadvantaged background, he encourages individuals to harness and excel in their inherent talents or potentials. Ronie emphasises the significance of problem-solving, highlighting how addressing others’ needs can unveil new ideas and opportunities for growth. Reflecting on his journey, Ronie shares a profound lesson: “Pray alone, always ask for forgiveness from God.” This spiritual grounding accentuates the importance of humility and gratitude in the pursuit of success.
Looking ahead, Ronie envisions Cool Geeks Computer System Services becoming a globally recognized company within the next 5 to 10 years. The vision extends beyond mere recognition; he aims to revolutionise education through the integration of futuristic, cutting-edge technology. Ronie’s ambition stresses his devotion to propelling the company’s growth and making a lasting impact on society by shaping the future of education. With determination, resilience, and a steadfast focus on innovation, Ronie Bulawin continues to pave the way for Cool Geeks’ success and contribute to the advancement of education worldwide.