On July 27, the Amplify Your Impact Branding Masterclass for Social Ventures, co-organized by Purpose in Motion (PIM) and DICT MIMAROPA, reached its grand finale with a high-energy, insight-packed session titled “Pitch Perfect: Delivering with Clarity and Confidence”.
Led by Leonard Ang, a multi-awarded entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, and leader of the Philippine AI ecosystem at Build Club Manila, the session brought together participants from across the globe – from the Philippines to Nigeria – creating a dynamic, cross-cultural learning environment.
From Branding to Pitching – A Three-Part Journey
This final workshop built on the momentum of the first two sessions: Purposeful Branding (May 27) and Building Partnerships (June 19); culminating in the art and science of pitching.
The Power of a Well-Crafted Pitch
Drawing from his experience as both a founder seeking capital and an evaluator of early-stage ideas, Leonard walked participants through why promising concepts often fail without clear, confident delivery. Using the iconic Steve Jobs 2007 iPhone launch as an example, he showed how storytelling, structure, and conviction can transform a presentation into a moment that moves people to action.
Leonard’s core message was clear: “Great ideas don’t always win – great communication does.”
Common Pitching Pitfalls
Leonard identified four frequent mistakes that weaken even the most innovative proposals:
- Overuse of Technical Jargon – impressing some but alienating most.
- Lack of Narrative Structure – facts alone don’t inspire action; stories do.
- Missing Traction Evidence – ideas need proof of progress, even in early stages.
- Unclear Business Model – audiences need to know who pays, why, and how it scales.
The Five Block Framework
To counter these pitfalls, Leonard introduced the Five Block Framework for a winning pitch:
- The Hook – captures attention in the first 15 seconds with a fact, story, or surprising insight.
- Mission Statement – define the problem, who it affects, and why it matters now.
- Model Explanation – show how your solution works and sustains itself financially.
- Traction Evidence – demonstrates momentum through user activity, partnerships, or pilots.
- The Ask – make a clear, specific request for support, funding, or collaboration.
Beyond the Content – Mastering Delivery
Content alone isn’t enough. Leonard also highlighted five delivery mistakes to avoid:
- Speaking too fast
- Reading directly from slides
- Over-explaining
- Flat, monotone delivery
- Weak, unfocused endings
Instead, he urged participants to treat pitches as conversations, use slides as visual cues, maintain eye contact, and close with a strong, confident call to action.
If you missed this session, watch the highlights here.
A Call to Keep Building
With over 13,000 leaders trained and US$850,000 mobilized for social ventures since 2014, PIM continues to be a catalyst for mission-driven changemakers worldwide. The session closed with an invitation to stay engaged with both PIM and DICT MIMAROPA for future programs.
“You’re not pitching an idea – you’re inviting people to help shape the future.” – Leonard Ang
About our Speaker:
Leonard Andrew Ang (LinkedIn)
Leonard is a multi-awarded entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, and Google FGN Fellow recognized as one of the Philippines’ 100 Under 30. Currently a senior in Computer Science at the University of the Philippines Diliman, he has co-founded multiple ventures, including Stealth AI and the SIP N Scale global startup dinner series operating in 23 cities across five countries. Leonard now leads the Philippine AI ecosystem at Build Club Manila, combining his expertise in technology, product development, and early-stage growth to empower mission-driven founders worldwide.
Writer
Divya Shukla (LinkedIn)
Management Trainee, PIM
I’m a Pharmaceutical Science Graduate, driven by a passion for healthcare innovation, social impact, and creative problem-solving. I’ve co-founded a volunteer initiative and actively led student-led projects and events. I love working with startups and thrive in dynamic environments where I can wear multiple hats.
