How a CEO’s single act of kindness catalyzed another CEO’s success
Sometimes, a single act of kindness is all it takes to create a lifetime of beautiful music.
That is what happened when Golden Arches Development Corporation chairman and founder Dr. George T. Yang decided, more than a decade ago, to establish the Klassikal Music Foundation (KMF), a scholarship program designed to support talented but financially challenged classical musicians in the Philippines.
What began as a personal mission to “give back” for the man who brought American fast food chain McDonald’s to the Philippines has now created a ripple effect that continues to inspire the country’s next generation of performers.
Through KMF, George has supported around 60 scholars per batch. One of these talented students is now among the most successful and respected names in the local music scene: Jade Riccio, CEO and founder of RMA Studio Academy. With the aid of George’s scholarship, Jade was able to enroll in the classical music program of the University of Santo Tomas Conservatory of Music, win singing competitions, and eventually graduate cum laude.
Long overdue reunion
When Jade and George reunited after several years apart for this interview, it was a heartwarming full-circle moment I was blessed to witness. Inside George’s lovely home in an exclusive village, Jade and her crew from RMA Studio Academy set up for an intimate interview.
The purpose was meaningful—the shoot was part of Jade’s upcoming recital, a celebration of her academy’s milestones and the grand showcase of her students’ training. Seeing George and Jade reunite was like seeing a father meeting his daughter again after so many years.
What once started as a young singer’s dream has now become a thriving educational institution specializing in music. The RMA Studio Academy trains close to a hundred celebrities among its students. The list includes popular artists like Maymay Entrata, Michelle Dee, Belle Mariano, Kai Montinola, Rhian Ramos, Max Collins, and celebrity kids like Zia Dantes, Renzo Jaworski, and Tali Sotto.
For George, seeing Jade’s success was emotional. “The main reason I went into this is to promote classical music because I want to give back,” he shared. “I learned something new when I was already growing old. I was 60 when I discovered that I could sing and that I could learn classical music.”
Discovering music at 60
George’s story alone is beautiful. At a time when most people were preparing for retirement, he found a new passion at 60 years old. He didn’t have a formal background in music, but he had the heart and determination to learn and, more importantly, to share what he learned with others.
He soon realized, however, that helping promote classical music in the Philippines was not easy. “One of the challenges was how expensive it is to support a musical scholarship,” he admitted. But he did it anyway. And through his success and generosity, he created opportunities for many aspiring artists, including Jade.
“I thought she’s got it all,” George said fondly of his former scholar. “Pretty girl, beautiful voice, and she’s very courageous. She’s willing to sing any song. She even dances while singing! I knew this girl would go somewhere.”
A teacher’s lesson on gratitude
During their reunion, Jade was visibly emotional. “If I didn’t meet Sir George,” she said, “there would be no interview right now.”
She recalled how much the foundation and the people behind it meant to her. “With the backup of my family, with the help of Sir George, and actually the team behind him, they’ve helped me so much. Ate Joann (George’s assistant) has been there for me ever since the very beginning.”
Every corner of George’s home was filled with memories for Jade. “This is where we used to perform,” Jade showed me, smiling as she looked around. “During the parties back then, the scholars would sing here and take part in special events. To be back now, it’s very nostalgic.”
What’s even more inspiring is how Jade’s story came full circle. Many of her academy’s coaches are her former co-scholars, proof that George’s initial act of kindness continues to spill over to generations of musicians. Today, she’s known as the coach to the stars and the children of stars, nurturing voices that now fill music videos and concert stages.
Witnessing their reunion, it is impossible not to reflect on my personal takeaways.
Random lessons from a reunion
First, it reminds us that it’s never too late to learn something new. George discovered classical singing at 60. And if he could do that without any musical background, then perhaps there’s no excuse for any of us not to try something new, whether it’s painting, driving, or even starting a new business.
Second, their story proves that kindness has a ripple effect. An act of generosity can transform countless lives. If George had not extended his hand to support talented young artists, there would be no RMA Studio Academy today, an institution that now empowers dozens of dreamers to find their own voices.
Third, it’s a display of the power of gratitude. Jade’s success did not make her forget her roots. She looked back, gave thanks, and continues to pay it forward by teaching others. In an industry often driven by fame, her humility in acknowledging where she started is a gift.
Lastly, I learned the value of being intentional. George is a passionate person, and passion shows in the details. Before our interview, he proudly showed me his coat, one that was beautifully embroidered with a musical instrument design. His eyes disappeared into a happy smile as he presented it. Even in his late 80s, he remains sharp, brilliant, and deeply engaged during the interview. Every word, gesture, and memory reflects a man who gives his full heart to what he loves.
Hitting the key of K (Kindness)
At its core, this story is about spreading art through the heart. It’s about the courage to begin again, the grace to give back, and the gratitude to acknowledge those who helped us along the way.
As Jade helps shape the country’s musical future, and as George continues to inspire us through his quiet philanthropy, their story reminds us of one truth—music is the universal language of kindness as it is of love. When you do something out of love and kindness, whether it is sharing a song, mentoring a student, or funding a dream, there is a guarantee that you are always in harmony with the rhythm of the world.
And while businessmen have this image of simply chasing after gains, here’s one who shows us that giving could also mean serious business.
Watch out for the full interview of George Yang and Jade Riccio on Random Republika’s YouTube channel soon. Catch RMA Studio Academy’s concert That’s Amore! A Night at the Movies on Nov. 9 at the Aliw Theater, CCP Complex. For more information, visit instagram.com/rmastudioacademy.
