Kiblawan, Davao Del Sur – A dream nurtured through education can become a gift to an entire community. For Lucila Alvarado of Barangay Kimlawis, the support she received as an SMI scholar opened the door to becoming a Licensed Professional Teacher. Today, she is turning that opportunity into a purpose, guiding young children, nurturing their potential, and helping build a brighter future for her community.
“Scholar ako ng SMI since first year college ko hangtod ko mahuman,” Lucila shared.
Through SMI’s educational assistance, Lucila completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Education at Serapion C. Basalo Memorial Colleges, Inc. in Poblacion, Kiblawan, Davao del Sur. Her perseverance paid off when she passed the Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers in September 2023.
Today, she puts her education into practice as a daycare teacher, helping young children develop essential skills and build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
“As daycare worker, nalingaw ko sa akong trabaho diri sa mga bata, sa pagtudlo sa ilaha,” she shared.
For Lucila, teaching is more than a job; it is an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children and contribute to her community’s future.
Her journey reflects how SMI’s support for education can open doors to opportunities and empower individuals to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. It also demonstrates how community-focused initiatives can contribute to the broader goals of responsible mining by creating meaningful opportunities for host and neighboring communities beyond mining operations.
Through its Social Development and Management Program (SDMP), SMI supports community development initiatives that help improve access to education, strengthen individual capabilities, and create opportunities for personal and professional growth. By investing in programs that respond to community needs, responsible mining can help empower individuals, support local development, and contribute to the long-term well-being of host and neighboring communities.
Lucila remains grateful for the opportunities she received and encourages fellow scholars to persevere.
“Padayon mo sa pag-iskwela kay dako ang ikatabang aning programa, especially sa allowances ug expenses sa eskwelahan,” she encouraged.
Lucila’s journey is a testament to how the impact of education extends far beyond the classroom. As she guides the next generation, she becomes part of the very future she once worked hard to build for herself. Her story is a reminder that when opportunities are nurtured, their impact can live on in the lives we touch, the dreams we encourage, and the generations we help shape. (30)
