Biography of Stephen Michael Co: Founder and CEO of WTH Foods- Entrepreneur

Biography of Stephen Michael Co: Founder and CEO of WTH Foods- Entrepreneur

Biography of Stephen Michael Co:

Stephen Michael Co embarked on his professional journey with a solid grounding in the biosciences. His first significant experience was an internship at Hybridigm Consulting Inc. in 2008, where he immersed himself in market research and industry analysis. This role marked the beginning of his exploration into the intricate world of food systems, helping him develop a keen understanding of the industry’s dynamics.

Educational Pursuits at Ateneo

Stephen’s academic foundation was laid at Ateneo de Manila University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2009. This program not only equipped him with knowledge about biological sciences but also instilled in him a curiosity about how these sciences could be applied in practical, innovative ways. His experiences during this time fueled his desire to delve deeper into the intersection of science and entrepreneurship.

Venturing into Global Academia

With a strong academic background, Stephen sought further knowledge and opportunities beyond his home country. He pursued a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Bioscience Enterprise at the renowned University of Cambridge from 2012 to 2013. This intensive program was highly competitive and focused on the commercial exploitation of life sciences. It covered a wide array of topics, including small molecule development, medical devices, and agricultural biotechnology, equipping him with the skills needed to navigate the complex world of biotechnology and its applications in food innovation.

Hands-On Experience at Arecor

During his time at Cambridge, Stephen also interned at Arecor Limited, a significant player in the biopharmaceutical industry. This hands-on experience allowed him to apply his theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting, working on projects that involved biopharmaceutical developments. His work at Arecor not only deepened his understanding of life sciences but also provided him with insights into the importance of innovation in healthcare and food products.

Crafting Unique Beverages

After returning to the Philippines, Stephen took a significant leap into entrepreneurship by founding Selula Hayagham Corporation in 2013. This venture began with Nipa Brew Craft Beverages, where he was instrumental in establishing the brand and its offerings. The brewery focused on creating unique, locally sourced craft beverages that celebrated Filipino flavors. Stephen envisioned expanding this enterprise into a food science incubator, fostering innovation in food technology and product development.

Sharing Knowledge at Ateneo

In addition to his entrepreneurial efforts, Stephen returned to academia as a lecturer at Ateneo de Manila University from 2014 to 2016. Teaching bioscience enterprise to undergraduate students was a fulfilling experience for him, as he could share his journey and insights with aspiring entrepreneurs. He encouraged his students to think critically about the applications of biosciences in real-world challenges, emphasizing the importance of innovation in addressing societal needs.

Learning from the Experts

In 2018, Stephen was selected as a Visiting Fellow at the Rutgers Food Innovation Center in New Jersey. This prestigious opportunity came through the YSEALI Professional Fellows Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. At Rutgers, he engaged with experts in food innovation, studying best practices and emerging trends in the industry. This experience enriched his understanding of how food innovation centers operate and provided valuable networking opportunities that would benefit his future endeavors.

 Biography of Stephen Michael Co: Founder and CEO of WTH Foods- Entrepreneur /Age/Net worth/plant-based meat products/Investor/Stephen Michael Co story

Plant-Based Visionaries Unite

By 2019, Stephen’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to co-found WTH Foods, a company dedicated to producing plant-based meat products tailored for the ASEAN market. His vision was clear: to create a sustainable food alternative that resonates with local consumers. He recognized the growing demand for plant-based options and aimed to address this need by leveraging local ingredients and culinary traditions.

Commitment to Sustainability

At WTH Foods, Stephen champions sustainability as a core principle of the business. The company focuses on using locally sourced, sustainable ingredients to create delicious plant-based alternatives that are not only good for consumers but also for the planet. His commitment to reducing food waste and promoting circular economy practices underlines the ethical framework guiding WTH Foods. Stephen believes that innovation in food production can lead to a more sustainable future for the ASEAN region.

Building Collaborations

As the CEO of WTH Foods, Stephen understands the importance of collaboration in driving change. He actively seeks partnerships with other industry leaders, researchers, and organizations that share his passion for food innovation and sustainability. By building a network of like-minded individuals, Stephen aims to create a stronger movement towards plant-based diets and sustainable food systems.

Academic Excellence and Leadership

Stephen’s impressive educational background and diverse experiences have positioned him as a thought leader in the food innovation sector. His ability to integrate academic insights with practical business strategies makes him a valuable asset to the industry. He frequently shares his knowledge at conferences and seminars, advocating for sustainable practices and the importance of food innovation.

Lifelong Learning

In his pursuit of excellence, Stephen continuously seeks to enhance his knowledge and skills. He has obtained various certifications, including a Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate and HACCP certification, which further equip him to lead in the food industry. This dedication to lifelong learning reflects his commitment to staying abreast of industry trends and innovations.

Inspiring the Next Generation

As an entrepreneur and educator, Stephen is passionate about inspiring future leaders in the food industry. He often engages with young entrepreneurs and students, sharing his journey and encouraging them to pursue their ideas with confidence. His experiences serve as a testament to the impact of passion, innovation, and sustainability in shaping a better future.

Celebrating Local Flavors

Through WTH Foods, Stephen emphasizes the significance of local culture and flavors in his plant-based products. By crafting offerings that resonate with Filipino consumers, he aims to foster greater acceptance of plant-based diets in the region. He believes that incorporating local tastes and ingredients can bridge the gap between traditional diets and modern dietary needs.

Looking Ahead

With a solid foundation in food innovation and sustainability, Stephen Michael Co continues to lead the charge in transforming the food industry. His vision for a sustainable and equitable food system drives his work at WTH Foods, and he remains committed to inspiring others to join this important movement. Through his leadership and innovative spirit, Stephen exemplifies the potential for positive change in the food landscape, making a lasting impact on both consumers and the environment.

Timeline of Stephen Michael Co's Journey

2008: Interns at Hybridigm Consulting Inc., beginning exploration of food systems.

2009: Graduates from Ateneo de Manila University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology.

2012-2013: Pursues an MPhil in Bioscience Enterprise at the University of Cambridge.

2013: Founds Selula Hayagham Corporation and launches Nipa Brew Craft Beverages.

2014-2016: Serves as a lecturer at Ateneo de Manila University, teaching bioscience enterprise.

2018: Becomes a Visiting Fellow at Rutgers Food Innovation Center through YSEALI.

2019: Co- founds WTH Foods, focusing on plant-based meat products for the ASEAN market.

2024: Advocates for sustainability and innovation in food systems as CEO of WTH Foods.

 Biography of Stephen Michael Co: Founder and CEO of WTH Foods- Entrepreneur /Age/Net worth/plant-based meat products/Investor/Stephen Michael Co story