The "Kapatid Mentor Me" program: An account of triumphs and tribulations among mentee graduates

Abstract

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) play an essential role in driving economic growth and employment in the Philippines. In response to the challenges faced by the MSMEs, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) implemented the Kapatid Mentor ME (KMME) Program to strengthen entrepreneurial capabilities through structured mentorship and coaching. This study explored the lived experiences of mentee graduates from Region VI (Western Visayas), focusing on the meanings they attributed to their triumphs and tribulations after completing the program. Guided by a constructionist epistemology and interpretivist perspective, a phenomenological approach was used to uncover how participants interpreted their entrepreneurial journeys. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with purposively selected mentee graduates representing diverse business sectors. Thematic analysis revealed that the program fostered entrepreneurial confidence, strategic decision making, market responsiveness, and business innovation. Participants emphasized the value of mentorship in enhancing self-efficacy, expanding networks, strengthening financial and operational practices, and adapting to digital platforms. However, findings also highlighted continuing challenges such as limited access to sustained government support, financial constraints, market competition, and managing workforce dynamics. These show that while KMME facilitated foundational growth and strategic mindset development, on-going post-program assistance is needed to support long-term enterprise sustainability.