Stories of inspiration

Cultivating Future-Ready Problem Solvers: PSFI Celebrates the Impact of the Shell NXplorers Program (2019–2025)

February 27, 2026

For six transformative years, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), in partnership with Shell Pilipinas Corporation, advanced a clear vision: equip young Filipinos not only with knowledge, but with the mindset and tools to navigate and solve complex global challenges.

From 2019 to June 2025, the Shell NXplorers Program in the Philippines reached 2,716 students and 421 teachers across 101 schools, strengthening STEM capabilities nationwide and nurturing a generation of systems thinkers.

A Methodology That Moves Minds

Launched locally in 2019, NXplorers introduced high school students (Grades 8–12) and educators to systems thinking, scenario planning, and theory of change. These tools were designed to help participants unpack complex issues in food, water, and energy and design practical, sustainability-driven solutions.

Rather than providing ready-made answers, NXplorers trained students to ask sharper questions and think through interconnected systems. Through facilitated workshops conducted both in person and online during the pandemic years, participants explored real-world challenges and built actionable responses rooted in critical thinking and collaboration.

The program complemented existing curricula and was adaptable across socio-economic contexts, making STEM learning accessible, relevant, and purpose-driven.

By the Numbers: Reach and Results

From 2019 to 2025, the program achieved:

2,716 students engaged
- 2,606 high school students
- 110 college students (Shell Eco-Marathon teams)
421 teachers trained in NXplorers methodology
101 schools engaged nationwide
121 Shell staff volunteers mobilized, contributing 1,991 volunteer hours

Monitoring and evaluation data reflected strong outcomes:

99% of students felt more confident engaging in real-world issues
88% were more likely to pursue STEM in the future
97% reported improvement in STEM Habits of Mind, including creative problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and collaboration
83% of teachers felt more confident teaching STEM concepts
99% of teachers observed improvement in their students’ STEM skills

These results demonstrate not only participation, but measurable growth in capability and confidence.

The Bright Ideas Challenge: Innovation in Action

A key feature of the program was the Shell NXplorers The Bright Ideas Challenge (TBIC), a culminating platform where students presented sustainability-focused solutions developed through the NXplorers methodology.

Across four challenge cycles:

97 student projects were generated
457 students participated
52 schools were represented

Projects addressed pressing issues in food security, water management, and energy use, reinforcing the program’s focus on real-world application and community relevance.

Strengthening Educators and Industry Engagement

Beyond student development, NXplorers invested in educators through professional development sessions, refresher courses, and structured learning materials. Teachers reported stronger facilitation strategies and improved classroom engagement.

The program also strengthened Shell’s community engagement through employee volunteerism. Shell staff contributed time and expertise as mentors and facilitators, building bridges between industry and education and reinforcing knowledge-sharing across sectors.

A Legacy of Systems Thinkers

An impact study covering 2019 to 2023 documented significant educational and social gains. Students demonstrated improved systems thinking, leadership, and collaboration skills. Teachers reported more dynamic learning environments and stronger integration of STEM concepts.

Importantly, students developed a deeper awareness of community challenges and a sense of shared responsibility in designing solutions.

As the Philippine implementation concluded in June 2025, PSFI recommended conducting an internal review to sustain gains, refine best practices, and explore integration within formal education systems and broader partnerships.

The program’s run has reached a milestone, but the mindset it cultivated endures.

When young people learn to explore, create, and change, they do more than solve problems.
They build the capacity to shape a more resilient and sustainable future.

More than four decades after receiving the opportunity to build their futures through the SKIL Program, alumni from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao came together to celebrate a legacy of transformation, achievement, and service. Their stories stand as a testament to the enduring power of education, skills development, and the belief that true success is measured not only by what we achieve, but by how we help others succeed.

Project PASA Strengthens Sustainability and Community Impact Through MOA Signing

Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), Shell Business Operations Manila, and Shell Pilipinas Corporation formalized their partnership for Project PASA (Passing Along Sustainably used Assets), an initiative that gives used furniture, mobile devices, and equipment a second life. Through the partnership, pre-loved assets are redirected to underserved communities, advancing sustainability, circularity, and social impact by ensuring valuable resources continue creating opportunities where they are needed most.

Makulay Dahil Bahagi Ka: How Joan dela Cerna is Building a Future Rooted in Care

After years of working abroad to provide for her family, Joan dela Cerna returned home with a renewed determination to build a future closer to her children. Through the Medical Scholarship Program (MSP) supported by Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) and Bloomberry Cultural Foundation, Inc. (BCFI), she is pursuing her dream of becoming a caregiver while balancing her roles as a mother, student, and breadwinner. Her story is a reminder that when people are given the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute, they can create meaningful change for themselves, their families, and their communities.

RESCUE in Action: Building Fire-Ready and Resilient Communities in Macabalan

Under its RESCUE (Response to Communities Under Emergencies) program, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), together with Shell Pilipinas Corporation, conducted a two-day fire safety and emergency response training in Barangay Macabalan, Cagayan de Oro City. In partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection and the local government unit, the initiative equipped community volunteers and residents with essential fire prevention and response skills, helping strengthen local preparedness and build more resilient communities.

Opening Doors to Opportunity: MGCCFI and PSFI Scholars Earn TESDA Customer Service Certification

Twenty-six scholars under the Manila Golf and Country Club Foundation, Inc. (MGCCFI) Technical Vocational Scholarship Program, implemented in partnership with Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), successfully earned their TESDA Customer Services NC II certification. Through months of online training, skills development, and perseverance, the scholars gained industry-recognized competencies that will help open doors to employment opportunities and a brighter future.

Makulay Dahil Bahagi Ka: How Rowena Miranda is Inspiring the Next Generation of Indigenous Learners

From scholar to teacher, Rowena Miranda’s journey has come full circle. An Aeta educator from Marcos Village, Pampanga, she now dedicates her life to helping indigenous children take their first steps in education and believe in their own potential. Through her story, we are reminded that communities become stronger and more vibrant when every person is given the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute.