Ezra Lyn Valenzuela began her journey with a simple goal. She wanted to learn a skill that could change her life. As a young mother raising her daughter while studying, every day was a test of strength. In 2024, while living in Cagayan de Oro, she found an opportunity to join the Sanayan sa Kakayahang Industriyal (SKIL) Program of Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), with the support of Shell Pilipinas Corporation’s North Mindanao Import Facility. She saw more than just a scholarship. She found Paglaum, or hope.
“May paraan talaga ang Diyos. Binuksan Niya ang pinto kung saan ko unang narinig sa sarili ko ang salitang, ‘Kaya ko. Kakayanin ko.’”
Through the SKIL Program, Ezra took up Housekeeping NCII. With her daughter as her motivation, she gave her best in every class and activity. “Gusto kong mabigyan siya ng buhay na ipinagdasal ko. Ayokong maranasan niya ang mga hirap na pinagdaanan ko.”
She learned to balance motherhood, studies, and life. “Hindi lang basta aktibidad ang mga ginagawa sa PSFI. Dito ko natutunan ang mga kakayahang ginagamit ko sa pang-araw-araw.” These skills became more than tools. They became her foundation for a better life.
Even before she completed the program, Ezra was already preparing to work abroad. She found a job posting for Greece through Facebook. At first, she hesitated because it involved fees and risks. But she reminded herself, “Kung palagi akong takot, walang matutupad sa mga pangarap ko.” With no work experience but armed with her NCII and training from PSFI, she took a leap of faith and carried Paglaum with her.
Today, Ezra works in Greece as a housekeeper. She provides for her loved ones, takes extra jobs to send more back home, and continues to pursue the future she envisioned. “Dito mo talaga makikita kung hanggang saan ang kaya mong ibigay para sa mga mahal mo.”
Her biggest lesson: “Opportunity knocks once. Seize it. Kasi baka ito na ang pinakamalaking twist ng buhay mo.”
And her greatest realization: “Laging maging mapagkumbaba. Ang taong mababa ang loob, mas mataas ang mararating.”
Now, Ezra lives the life she once prayed for. “Ito na ang buhay na ipinagdasal ko.”
As PSFI marks 43 years of transforming lives, Ezra’s story reflects the true spirit of Paglaum—hope built into a future through courage and perseverance. Through programs like SKIL, PSFI continues to spark Paglaum in communities across the country, helping Filipinos take charge of their future.
