Pic-A-Talk at the Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition: A Journey of Innovation and Purpose

In the dynamic world of startups, the journey to success is rarely a straight path. It’s filled with challenges, breakthroughs, and lessons that shape not only the business but also the people behind it. On February 17, 2025, Pic-A-Talk’s CEO and Founder, Uma Roa, had the incredible opportunity to share this journey at the Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition (LKYGBPC) Roadshow.

Standing in front of over 40 students from De La Salle University alongside fellow entrepreneurs Luke Wu, Atty. Mike, and Gabby from Singapore Management University, Uma reflected on Pic-A-Talk’s growth, the lessons learned, and the impact the competition had on our development. More than just a pitch event, LKYGBPC is a powerful platform where innovation meets resilience, and where young entrepreneurs can gain the insights they need to sustain momentum in the ever-evolving business landscape.

A Session Packed with Insights and Inspiration

The session at LKYGBPC Roadshow was designed to provide valuable insights on overcoming burnout, leading with purpose, and sustaining business growth in a rapidly changing world. As part of this event, participants had the opportunity to:

✅ Hear real startup stories from industry innovators who have navigated the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.

✅ Gain insights into resilience, leadership, and sustainable growth from experienced founders.

✅ Engage in interactive discussions and Q&A sessions, allowing them to dive deeper into the realities of the startup ecosystem.

✅ Discover international opportunities available for both students and founders looking to expand their ventures globally.

For Uma, this event was more than just an opportunity to share Pic-A-Talk’s story—it was a chance to inspire the next generation of Filipino entrepreneurs. Being the only Filipino startup in the previous edition of LKYGBPC, she hopes to see more Filipino founders take the stage in the years to come, proving that innovation knows no borders.

The Pic-A-Talk Journey: From Idea to Impact

Pic-A-Talk started as a vision to create a communication solution for nonverbal individuals. Through hard work, research, and continuous innovation, it has now become a tool that empowers children with speech and language difficulties, allowing them to express themselves and connect with the world around them.

Uma’s journey in building Pic-A-Talk has been a testament to the power of resilience. From securing funding to refining the app’s features based on real user feedback, every challenge has been an opportunity for growth. The support from platforms like LKYGBPC has played a crucial role in this journey, providing not just exposure but also mentorship and valuable connections within the startup ecosystem.

One of the key takeaways from her talk was the importance of purpose-driven leadership. Startups are more than just about making a profit; they are about solving real problems and creating lasting impact. This mindset has been at the heart of Pic-A-Talk’s success, guiding the team through the inevitable hurdles of entrepreneurship.

Empowering the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

Beyond Pic-A-Talk’s journey, the LKYGBPC Roadshow served as a launchpad for aspiring entrepreneurs eager to bring their own ideas to life. Events like these are crucial in bridging the gap between ambition and execution, providing young founders with the knowledge and connections they need to take their startups to the next level.

For many students in the audience, hearing firsthand experiences from successful entrepreneurs was a game-changer. The discussions on burnout, leadership, and global opportunities offered a realistic yet inspiring perspective on what it takes to thrive in the startup world.

Uma encouraged attendees to embrace the challenges ahead, reminding them that setbacks are simply part of the process. As she put it, “Every obstacle is an opportunity to learn, grow, and refine your vision.”

Looking Ahead: A Future of Innovation and Inclusion

As Pic-A-Talk continues to expand its reach, the lessons learned from events like LKYGBPC remain invaluable. The insights on resilience, adaptability, and international growth will help shape the company’s next steps as it strives to make AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) accessible to more individuals worldwide.

For the aspiring entrepreneurs who attended the roadshow, the event was a reminder that with the right mindset, anything is possible. The startup journey is tough, but with purpose, passion, and perseverance, success is within reach.

We are incredibly grateful to the organizers of the Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition Roadshow for creating such a meaningful platform for knowledge-sharing and collaboration. To every student and founder who dreams of making an impact—this is just the beginning. Keep innovating, keep pushing forward, and most importantly, keep believing in your vision.