In 1990, after realizing the great potential youth have to reach their own generation for Christ and directing several youth musicals in her own church, co-founder Ramona Simons began to conceptualize such a ministry. Experiencing firsthand the life changing impact of short term missions on her own life, she envisioned how a partnership of music, missions and youth could have a long term impact on the young people of the Philippines and across Asia. After praying about it for one year with friends, Boots Cruz and Nelly Lolin, this dream became reality in 2001 and 180 Degrees was born! Ramona, (Director) Boots, (Event Coordinator) and Nelly (Food Supporter) made up the first management team. Joining team as band director and production head were Jem and Jenny Yangat. Ching Uy served as secretary/treasurer in the initial months. Twenty-two youth made up the first batch, singing a 1 year commitment as their promise to serve God.
Presently, youth sign a TWO YEAR COVENANT to be in the ministry. Due to the untimely death of lead keyboardist Jet Castillo in August 2001, goin on was difficult for the group. Members had to deal with thes tragedy and as one team member said, “If this happened to us, then God must have a plan to use us. We have to go on!”