At 22 years old, Julianne Leonardo stands as a testament to perseverance and purpose. A recent Nursing graduate of the Davao Medical School Foundation (DMSF) and a scholar of the Medical Scholarship Program (MSP) of Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) and Bloomberry Cultural Foundation, Inc. (BCFI), Julianne’s path to success was far from easy.
Nursing was not her first choice. Encouraged by her parents, she took the course and, in time, discovered a deep passion for caring for others. Yet behind her dedication was a constant struggle. Every exam meant submitting a promissory note because her family could not afford tuition on time.
“Parati ako humihingi ng tawad sa school kase wala pa talaga akong pambayad ng tuition at buti na lang naiintindihan nila,” she recalls.
Just when she had accepted that she might have to stop schooling, hope arrived. Julianne was referred to the MSP of PSFI and BCFI, and the day she learned she was accepted, she broke down in tears.
“Sinubukan ko na ang ibang scholarship program pero hindi ako natatanggap. Kaya noong nalaman ko na may suportang ibibigay ang PSFI at BCFI sa amin, sobrang laking tulong talaga,” she shares.
For Julianne, the scholarship was more than financial support. It was a lifeline that kept her dreams alive, while also shaping her skills and character through LEAD workshops and mentoring sessions.
This year, Julianne proudly graduated and is now preparing for the Nursing Board Exam. Her journey, however, does not stop there. Inspired by her experiences and the medical scholars she met, she plans to pursue medicine, determined to bring healthcare closer to those who need it most.
“Gusto kong makilala bilang isang doktor na hindi lang magaling kundi may malasakit, at mas inuuna ang mga nangangailangan.”
Julianne’s story is one of courage, faith, and transformation. From writing promissory notes to writing a new chapter of hope for her community, she embodies what it means to rise above challenges and turn opportunities into a lifelong mission of service.
