Behind-the-Scenes: Deconstructing The Final Pitch Heroes Edition with Investor-Judge Joel Santos

by: Hannah Magdangal, Thames International Undergraduate Student

“That’s what I’d like to contribute to The Final Pitch: to give you a mindset of how to pivot and move from setback to comeback.”, said Mr. Joel Santos, President and Co-founder of Thames International Business School, during his interview with the business reality TV show, The Final Pitch. Putting up a business is no easy feat even when not in the midst of a global pandemic. How can we rise above the pitfalls and emerge with a renewed sense of hope for a future beyond the unfortunate events of the present? 

We are in dire need of solutions and change enforcers who will take action. By hosting live sessions to discuss and deconstruct the pitches from each episode, Mr. Santos provided participants with the opportunity to expand their industry knowledge with a more in-depth understanding of what happens in the show – taking them a step closer towards becoming tomorrow’s changemakers.

In the virtual sessions, clips of Final Pitch episodes preceded a comprehensive discussion about a whole range of topics, ranging from what it is that made the pitches effective to how simple changes could have landed better offers, and even the kind of useful information to have prepared beforehand. Mr. Santos imparted professional knowledge and personal opinions, answering questions and equipping participants with the right tools to deliver an effective and impactful pitch. The sessions were engaging, fun, and informative all at once – with one of the show’s participants, Paolo Herras, a Thames ICE Program Alumnus, even joined the discussion.

Being able to deliver a pitch that is impactful and well prepared not only leaves a lasting impression, but fast-tracks the success of a business. The fruitful sessions left participants with knowledge, concepts, and professional insights they can bring with them wherever they go. Thames student Dani Marcelino said, “It helps build confidence in us in the knowledge that we’d know exactly what to do, what to look at, when the time comes.” 

As an aspiring entrepreneur myself, the values I have gained are ones that I will be able to bring with me going forward, growing my own business and further navigating my way through the industry. The sessions have left a lasting impact on me, as I am certain they did everyone else, and I look forward to the ones to come.

With guidance from professionals and industry experts, Thames International continuously provides an avenue for students to cultivate their entrepreneurial spirit and become change enforcers making a positive impact into the world. Check out these future-proof programs to know more.