Village Connect
In the quiet corners of our bustling communities, everyday heroes go unnoticed—individuals whose kindness and compassion shine through their selfless actions. One such hero is Archie Austria, a propsman at SM City Bataan, whose life has been shaped by generosity and a deep desire to help others.
Growing up as the youngest of 14 siblings, Archie learned early on the importance of family and mutual support. After losing his mother during his teenage years, his siblings worked together to support his education. Determined to ease their burden, Archie began working part-time creating event props, using his creativity to fund his schooling. These formative experiences taught him resilience, empathy, and the value of lending a helping hand.
Today, Archie channels his passion for service through SM’s corporate social responsibility initiatives. Whether he’s helping with Operation Tulong Express to provide relief to disaster-stricken communities or participating in coastal clean-ups, Archie is a familiar and trusted face in SM Foundation activities. “I grew up in a family where helping others was second nature,” he shared. “Now, I want to give back, and SM gives me the platform to do so.”
For Archie, volunteering is more than just an activity—it’s a way to inspire hope. “I know the impact of losing someone and how crucial it is to feel supported during tough times. That’s why I always try to be there for others when they need it most,” he said. Through his efforts, Archie strives to live the SM Foundation’s mission of “people helping people,” believing that even small acts of kindness can create ripples of positive change.
Archie also hopes to inspire others to join in preserving the environment and supporting their communities. “I want future generations to grow up in a world filled with hope and kindness,” he said. “Through the small things I do, I hope to encourage others to give back and build a more compassionate world.”
His story reflects SM Group’s commitment to fostering social good, employee engagement, and community development. Beyond the malls and the daily routines, employees like Archie remind us of the power of kindness and the difference one person can make in building a better, brighter future for all.
