In the dynamic landscape of start-up ventures, founders often embark on their entrepreneurial journey driven by a desire to address pressing societal needs. For Rebecca Kersch, the birth of TANGGapp emerged from a deeply personal motivation rooted in her familial ties and a commitment to social impact.
“I’m very close to my aunt who is originally from Pampanga,” Kersch said in a media briefing. “I realized that she was paying a significant amount just for the fees in sending money and I thought, maybe I could do something about it.”
Kersch’s journey toward social entrepreneurship is a narrative woven with diverse experiences, cultural influences, and unwavering determination. Raised in a multicultural environment, Kersch’s identity is a tapestry of her Filipino heritage, inherited from her Filipino-American mother, and her Dutch-Indonesian lineage, stemming from her father.
Her formative years, split between the Netherlands and the United States, provided her with a global perspective and instilled in her a deep appreciation for cultural diversity. Fluent in multiple languages, including Dutch, English, French, and with a proficiency in Tagalog, Kersch effortlessly traverses linguistic and cultural boundaries.
Academic journey
As she navigated through prestigious academic institutions and diverse professional endeavors, Kersch’s journey was characterized by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and a commitment to making a meaningful impact. From her undergraduate studies in International Business Administration at the VU University of Amsterdam to her double master’s program in International Management at the Rotterdam School of Management, Kersch’s academic pursuits laid the groundwork for her future endeavors.
Her professional trajectory, marked by stints in nonprofit organizations and strategic consulting, provided her with invaluable insights into global challenges and opportunities. Working with an organization addressing HIV/AIDS in Amsterdam and South Africa, and later at the United Nations, Kersch gained firsthand experience in the complexities of international development and humanitarian efforts.
Despite her diverse experiences, the path to social entrepreneurship was not always clear for Kersch. It was during her tenure at Harvard University, where she pursued further studies, that she felt an intense sense of purpose and a call to action. Inspired by the vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem and driven by a desire to create positive change, Kersch embarked on a journey to launch TANGGapp.
TANGGapp as catalyst for financial inclusion
The inception of TANGGapp was catalyzed by Kersch’s personal connection to the plight of Filipino migrant workers, particularly her beloved aunt (Tita Baby), who worked overseas to support her family back home. Witnessing the financial burdens imposed by exorbitant remittance fees, Kersch was determined to alleviate the struggles faced by migrant workers and their families.
TANGGapp, meaning “to accept or receive” in Tagalog, embodies Kersch’s vision of bridging the gap between migrant workers and their families through affordable and accessible financial services. At its core, TANGGapp is more than just a business venture; it is a testament to Kersch’s commitment to social justice and economic empowerment.
The journey of TANGGapp from inception to fruition was fraught with challenges and obstacles. From securing funding to navigating regulatory hurdles, Kersch faced numerous setbacks along the way. However, her resilience and unwavering determination propelled TANGGapp forward, garnering recognition and support from prestigious institutions and organizations.
Funding, finally!
In 2020, TANGGapp was awarded the Adrian Cheng Fellowship for social entrepreneurs at Harvard Kennedy School, providing Kersch with not only financial support but also access to a network of like-minded individuals dedicated to driving social change. The Cheng Fellowship was a one-year program, to be followed in addition to the MPA, and came with a $30,000 (P1.5 million) grant for its fellows to use toward their venture.
TANGGapp received grants and accolades from renowned institutions such as Boston MassChallenge, the Rockefeller Foundation, and the Harvard President’s Innovation Challenge, further validating Kersch’s vision and impact.
Despite the accolades and success, Kersch remains grounded in her commitment to her founding principles. With a steadfast resolve to make TANGGapp’s services fee-free and accessible to all, she continues to push boundaries and challenge the status quo. Her vision extends beyond mere profitability; it encompasses a broader mission of social justice, financial inclusion, and empowerment.
As TANGGapp continues to expand its reach and impact, Kersch remains at the helm, guiding the organization toward greater heights. With plans to broaden its services to regions beyond the Philippines and the US, TANGgapp is poised to accelerate transformative change for migrant workers worldwide.
Free forever
In 2023, TANGGapp witnessed exponential growth, with a significant portion of users returning, underscoring the efficacy of its model. As the organization prepares for further expansion into the Middle East and other regions, Kersch’s vision of a world where migrant workers can send money home without incurring exorbitant fees is within reach.
Rebecca Kersch’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship fused with social impact. Through TANGGapp, she not only honors her familial ties but also champions the resilience, dignity, and aspirations of Filipino migrant workers worldwide. As she continues to lead by example, Kersch inspires a new generation of entrepreneurs to pursue purpose-driven ventures that create positive change in the world.
“I know it will be hard but with our lean — but more than capable — team, I know that we will do it,” she said. “It is going to be a tough call but that is the premise that I worked on and I want to keep it that way. We will manage somehow but again, I will ensure to keep that principle that built TANGGapp’s foundation.”
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