Stories of inspiration

Painting Her Dreams: Lorraine’s Journey with KalyEskwela

At just 18 years old, Lorraine is already shaping a future full of hope and heart. A regular participant in the Basic Literacy and Numeracy (BLAN) Learning Sessions by Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), she has joined five sessions through Childhope Philippines Foundation’s KalyEskwela program, a mobile community-based education initiative that brings learning to street-involved children and youth.

The sessions, made possible through the partnership between PSFI, ShellACTS volunteers, and Childhope, offer more than just academic support. They provide safe and nurturing spaces where children can read, count, create, and connect with others.

For Lorraine, one of the most memorable parts of each session is the team-building activity.
 “Masaya po ako kapag may team building kasi nakakakilala ako ng bagong kaibigan,” she shares. These moments allow her to develop confidence, form new friendships, and learn how to work with others. These are valuable life lessons that go beyond the classroom.

During the creative arts segments, Lorraine finds joy in expressing her dreams through drawing and painting. She often paints herself as a future civil engineer, dreaming of building a better world. She also imagines traveling abroad, with Japan and Hong Kong Disneyland at the top of her list.

But Lorraine’s dreams go far beyond personal success. She hopes her fellow youth in the program grow up to be responsible citizens who also extend kindness to others. “Balang araw, gusto ko rin maging volunteer para makapagbigay din ako ng tulong sa iba,” she says, inspired by the ShellACTS volunteers and social workers of Childhope Philippines who dedicate their time to support children like her.

When asked what new experience she wants to explore, Lorraine answered with quiet confidence, “Gusto ko rin po matuto ng public speaking para mag-improve ang aking confidence.” It’s a small yet brave wish that reflects her desire to grow and inspire others.

Lorraine is deeply thankful to Childhope Philippines Foundation, PSFI, and ShellACTS volunteers for creating spaces where children like her feel valued and heard. Her greatest hope is for her siblings and many other children to experience the same warmth, encouragement, and learning she continues to receive.

Through the BLAN sessions, Lorraine is not just learning how to read or count. She is learning how to dream boldly, speak kindly, and believe in her ability to make a difference.

Read related article about KalyEskwela: Learning with Love: How ShellACTS Volunteers Help Children Believe in Themselves

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.