Michael Concepcion: Wear humanity Michael Concepcion: Wear humanity

It’s no secret that today’s youth have succumbed to a tarnished image of lazily poking people on Facebook all day, or playing the latest installment of Left 4 Dead for hours on end. Michael Concepcion, 19, a marketing student at De La Salle University is one of the rare few that are giving parents everywhere the hope of polishing up this impression.

Focused, determined and armed with a mission, Michael is balancing his studies with the opening of his clothing store, Greater Good. A project that’s been in the works for two years, the socially conscious line aims to use fashion and modern design to address social issues — from the environment to animal rights, hunger and poverty. A percentage of proceeds going will go to various organizations throughout the country. It’s fashion philanthropy at its finest. Together with cousin and business partner, Christian Concepcion, they’ve teamed up with different graphic artists to ensure that you wear your cause on your chest without looking too overbearing.

With the opening of their first store at the SM Mall of Asia this week, Michael steps out of his illustrious family’s entrepreneurial shadow to pursue his interest in fashion and retail marketing — all for the greater good. 

Opening a business is always a risk. Why take it?

Life’s too short to lay out the pros and cons in everything you do. On that rare occasion, it’s best to just take that leap of faith and go for it. The best lessons are always learned through the mistakes you’ve made, which is why I’m not afraid to take that risk.

Coming from a family of entrepreneurs and business heavyweights (his dad is Selecta’s John Concepcion), are you feeling the pressure?

Having a dad like mine, it’s a tough act to follow — in a good way. From listening in on his endless business conversations on the phone, to small talk over dinner that turns into marketing and advertising 101, it’s instilled in my blood the drive to start a business that just feels right. This notion pushed me to start young, early enough to get a head start and to learn the business hands-on.

How do you balance school and opening a store?

Every day is different. One day I’ll be interviewing employees then rushing to tutorial sessions, other days I’m answering articles similar to this one while finishing up my calculus homework.

What’s the worst advice you’ve ever gotten?

“Go get a real job.” I admire people who do things out of the norm.

What do you love about your job?

That it’s my passion. There’s no better feeling than knowing you’re doing exactly what you want to do. It gets easier when the going gets tough. 

What cause are you passionate about?

Going green — it’s extremely important that we all find ways to incorporate green and sustainable living in all our lifestyles. It’s not much to ask for and we owe it to ourselves.

Who would you like to collaborate with?

Banksy.

What would you consider the greatest invention?

The Walkman. The iPod idea had to come from somewhere!

If you had a dinner party for five, which personalities would take a spot on the table?

Craig Robinson, Michael Cera, Paul Rudd, Judd Apatow and Ken Jeong. Now, that’d make for some good, live, awkward comedy.

If you could live someone else’s life for a day, whose would it be?

Bear Grylls. I could use a little extreme adventure.

Who are your mentors?

My father, his work ethic and generosity to those in need continues to inspire me to do what I do. And my mom for instilling in me the right morals and values.

Who has the sexiest brain for you?

Christopher Nolan.

What would cause you to head towards the exit on a first date?

Women who constantly look for perfection.

What should women never do?

Describe Justin Bieber as their ideal man.

What’s your current obsession?

Anything hazelnut.

What music video sums up your current state of mind?

Sometimes by Miami Horror.

Who do you follow on Twitter?

The Office’s Rainn Wilson, he’s just as hilarious on Twitter as he is on television.

What is the most senseless tweet you’ve read in the past 24 hours?

Well, someone recently told me that I have a sexy neck; I still don’t know how I feel about that.

What song — on loop — would make for musical torture?

Mr. Roboto by Styx. I cringe.

Whose body makes you feel like touching it?

Odette Yustman. Her beauty is vastly underrated.