Stories of inspiration

From Promissory Notes to Promises of Hope: Julianne’s Journey to Healing Others

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.

Related stories:

Roots to Shoots SACOBIA: Growing Food, Growing Futures in Bamban

With support from Bloomberry Cultural Foundation, Inc. (BCFI), Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) is helping communities in Bamban, Tarlac grow more than vegetables through the Roots to Shoots SACOBIA Program by cultivating food security, healthier lifestyles, and hands-on learning through school gardens.

PSFI and SPC Support Brigada Eskwela Through Bayanihan Bulilit in Pasacao

Through the Bayanihan Bulilit initiative, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), Shell Pilipinas Corporation (SPC), and volunteers from the Shell Pasacao Terminal joined community partners to prepare Child Development Centers in Pasacao, Camarines Sur for the new school year. The collective effort provided learning materials, improved classroom facilities, and created better learning environments for 243 young learners.

Makulay Dahil Bahagi Ka: When Representation Opens Doors and Saves Lives

This Pride Month, PSFI celebrates Basha Cancillar, a community leader whose journey from a young volunteer to an HIV advocate is helping create safer, more inclusive spaces for people affected by and living with HIV. Through PROTECTS UPSCALE and partnerships with community organizations, Basha champions representation, dignity, and access to healthcare, proving that when people are seen, heard, and empowered, lives can be transformed.

More Than a Reunion: Celebrating Four Decades of the SKIL Legacy

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.