For Dr. James Cayetano, President of Bell-Kenz Foundation, a scholarship has never been just about helping students finish college. It is about creating opportunities that continue long after graduation while developing professionals who eventually become contributors, mentors, and leaders capable of helping others succeed.
Guided by this vision, Bell-Kenz Foundation continues to invest in students whose success extends beyond graduation. Some of its former scholars have since become professionals, with a number even joining the Bell-Kenz organization, where they now contribute to the same mission that once supported them.
Among them is former scholar Shane Jasmin "Shaun" Samson, whose journey reflects the Foundation's belief that investing in education creates lasting change. Coming from a family that relied on a small sari-sari store for income, Shaun earned a Political Science degree from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines through the support of a Bell-Kenz Foundation scholarship.
The financial assistance provided better security and enabled him to focus on his studies and pursue his goals with greater confidence. In 2024, he graduated Magna Cum Laude.
Today, Shaun serves as CSR Admin Assistant at Bell-Kenz Foundation, helping administer the very scholarship program that once supported his own education.
"I used to wait for the message that said I was supported. Now, I'm the one who helps send it," Shaun shared.
His story reflects what Dr. Cayetano envisioned from the very beginning, that scholars can eventually become professionals who help open doors for the next generation.
Shaun's journey is not unique. Former scholar Thea Macalalad also demonstrates how educational support can create opportunities that continue well beyond graduation.
As the eldest child of separated parents, Thea faced significant financial challenges while trying to complete her education. Through Bell-Kenz Foundation's scholarship program, she was able to continue her studies, finish her internship, and eventually pass her licensure examination.
Her journey also led her to Bell-Kenz Pharma Inc., where she now works as an employee. Even beyond graduation, the company continued supporting her when she faced a medical condition by helping her access specialized healthcare.
"Bell-Kenz didn't only help me finish my education or build my career—they helped me rebuild my life," Thea said.
Stories like Shaun's and Thea's reflect the Foundation's belief that education can create opportunities far beyond graduation.
"Bell-Kenz Foundation envisions creating a cycle of opportunity—where today's scholars grow into tomorrow's professionals, mentors, and leaders who, in turn, empower others to dream bigger and achieve more. Shaun and Thea exemplify this vision. Their journeys remind us that a scholarship is more than financial assistance; it is an investment in human potential, a catalyst for transformation, and a commitment to ensuring that no deserving student is forced to give up their dreams because of financial hardship," Dr. Cayetano said.
Through every student it supports, Bell-Kenz Foundation hopes to nurture professionals who will create opportunities for others, sustaining the cycle of empowerment that lies at the heart of its mission.
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