Impact Stories

Efren Peñaflorida: From Slums to CNN Hero

Efren Peñaflorida, born on March 5, 1981, in Cavite City, Philippines, grew up in an urban slum near a dumpsite. His father was a tricycle driver, and his mother was a housewife. Despite financial hardships, Efren was determined to pursue education. With the assistance of scholarships and financial aid, he completed his elementary and high school education, earning several academic honors. He graduated with highest honors in Computer Technology from San Sebastian College-Recoletos de Cavite in 2000 and later obtained a degree in Secondary Education, cum laude, from Cavite State University in 2006. 

At 16, Efren founded the Dynamic Teen Company (DTC), aiming to divert youth from street gangs toward community service and personal development. DTC introduced the "pushcart classroom," bringing education to children in unconventional locations like cemeteries and dumpsites. In 2009, Efren was named CNN Hero of the Year, recognizing his dedication to educating marginalized children. This accolade brought global attention to his cause, leading to expanded support for DTC's initiatives. 

Kesz Valdez: From Street Child to International Children's Peace Prize Laureate

 

Chris "Kesz" Valdez, born on December 26, 1998, in Imus, Cavite, Philippines, endured severe poverty and abuse from a young age. Forced to scavenge and beg, he escaped his abusive environment at four and lived on the streets. After suffering severe burns from an accident, Kesz was taken in and mentored by Harnin Manalaysay, who also mentored Efren Peñaflorida. 

At seven, Kesz founded Championing Community Children (C3), an organization dedicated to providing hope and basic necessities to street children. Through C3, Kesz has reached over 10,000 children in his community, offering hygiene education, clothing, and toys. In 2012, at the age of 13, he was awarded the International Children's Peace Prize, becoming the first Southeast Asian to receive this honor. The €100,000 prize was used to fund various children's projects, amplifying his impact on the lives of thousands. 

KJay Jaboneta: Bridging Waters for Education

Jay Michael Ortuoste Jaboneta, born on September 13, 1981, in Cotabato City, Philippines, graduated with a degree in Management Accounting from Ateneo de Davao University. While not from a poor background himself, Jay's significant contribution to education came through his philanthropic efforts. In 2010, he learned about children in Layag-Layag, Zamboanga City, who had to swim half a mile to reach school. Motivated to help, Jay initiated the Zamboanga Fund for Little Kids, which evolved into the Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation. The foundation provides boats to transport children to school safely, significantly improving their access to education. 

 

These stories exemplify how determination and a commitment to education can transform individual lives and positively impact thousands of others.

The journey of Iah Seraspi

 

Born into extreme poverty in Romblon—with a father earning barely PHP20–PHP50 a day from fishing and a home that once lacked even basic electrical power—Iah experienced hardships from a very young age. As a child, she often had to make do with meager meals, sometimes sharing instant noodles with her siblings, and yet her determination to rise above her circumstances never wavered .

 

Despite these incredible obstacles, Iah recognized that education was her lifeline out of poverty. In high school, she fully embraced her studies even when daily sustenance was a challenge. Her perseverance caught the attention of a teacher who saw not just her potential, but also the possibility of changing her destiny. This compassionate intervention led to a connection with the Ernesto Esquejo Scholarship Foundation—which provided her with the opportunity to pursue a college education. That spark of hope not only allowed her to continue her studies but also set her on a path to transform her entire future . 

 

After completing her college education, Iah shattered expectations by excelling in her licensure exam for secondary school teachers—placing second out of more than 81,000 hopefuls nationwide. This remarkable achievement was more than a personal triumph. By breaking through the barriers that poverty had imposed on her, she not only lifted her family’s prospects but also became an inspiring beacon for thousands. As a teacher, her influence now extends far beyond the classroom: every student she educates carries forward the lesson that no matter where one starts, determination and support can open the door to a brighter future .

Iah Seraspi’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and community care. It reminds us that even the most adverse circumstances can be overcome when fueled by relentless willpower and backed by those who believe in nurturing potential. Her story continues to resonate with many across the Philippines, inspiring communities to invest in education as the catalyst for widespread change.