Every dream begins with an opportunity
For many students, pursuing higher education comes with challenges that can make the journey seem uncertain. Yet with determination, family support, and access to opportunities, those dreams can become reality. Through the SM Scholarship Program, countless young Filipinos have been given the chance to continue their education and build brighter futures for themselves and their families.
For Ivy Concepcion, that opportunity changed the course of her life.
Years ago, Ivy was an SM Scholar striving to complete her studies and create a better future. Today, she walks through the halls of SM City Baguio not as a scholar, but as a Tenant Relations Officer, becoming part of the workforce of the very organization that once supported her educational journey.
Her story is a testament to how a single opportunity can create a lasting impact.
“Natulungan ako na makapag graduate sa gusto kong course na Civil Engineering, super grateful kasi natulungan kami ni SM na maitaguyod yung buong college ko and hindi lang yun natulungan niya din ako na magkatrabaho….” said Ivy.
Looking back, Ivy credits the scholarship for helping ease the financial burden on her family and allowing her to focus on her studies. More importantly, it gave her the confidence to pursue her goals and believe that her aspirations were within reach.
Today, she takes pride in being able to give back through her work, knowing that she was once a student who simply needed a chance to succeed.
While Ivy’s story reflects the impact of the scholarship program years later, another young dreamer is just beginning her own journey.
Rose Atelba, an incoming SM Scholar, represents the next generation of students whose lives may be transformed through education. Filled with hopes for the future, she sees the scholarship as an opportunity to pursue her dreams while helping her family along the way.
“As an SM Scholar, pagbubutihin ko po ang pag-aaral ko and maging inspiration sa mga ibang kabataan na wala ring pang pa-aral and huwag tayo mag stop kahit ano man ang pagsubok na darating sa atin kasi there is always another blessing…”
Behind every scholar is a family that shares in the journey.
For Rose’s father, the scholarship is more than financial assistance. It is a source of hope and reassurance that his daughter can continue her education and work toward the future she envisions for herself.
Like many parents, he dreams of seeing his child succeed and believes that education remains one of the greatest gifts that can help shape a better future.
These stories reflect the heart of the SM Scholarship Program. Beyond providing educational support, it creates opportunities that ripple through families and communities, opening doors that may have once seemed out of reach.
According to Ar., Jerico Bernardo, Mall Manager of SM City Baguio, investing in education is one of the most meaningful ways to help communities grow and thrive.
“Through initiatives like this, we are not only supporting individual scholars but also contributing to the development of future professionals and leaders who will eventually drive progress in the community…”
The scholarship program not only supports students in achieving their academic goals but also helps nurture future professionals, leaders, and changemakers who will one day contribute to their communities.
From a scholar who has become part of the SM family, to a student preparing to take her first steps toward her dreams, the stories of Ivy and Rose serve as reminders that opportunities can change lives.
As Baguio’s most loved mall, SM City Baguio continues to support programs that empower students, strengthen families, and create pathways toward a brighter future.
Because sometimes, all it takes is one opportunity to inspire a dream, transform a life, and create a story worth sharing. (PR)
