Dreams Beyond the Horizon: Celebrating Our Newest Nursing Scholars

We are thrilled to share some incredible news from the WE Foundation and the Self-Reliant Farm! Three of our dedicated scholars—Hannah Mae Cabanada Guimba, Niña Guimba, and Mariel D. De Luna—have officially been accepted into the prestigious nursing program at Gordon College in Olongapo City.

This milestone was made possible through the unwavering support of our community and the vital assistance of Dr. Imelda dele Pena, the College President. A close contact of Fr. John Nguyen, the founder of Self Reliant Farm Scholarship Program, Dr. Mhel was instrumental in helping the scholars navigate the complexities of the admission process, ensuring they had a clear path to pursue their dreams. Additionally, we are proud to share that Hannah and Niña are also being partly supported by funding from Philippine International Aid (PIA), further strengthening the foundation for their success.

Meet the Scholars

These three young women from Culion, Palawan, carry with them not only their personal ambitions but the hopes of their entire community.

Hannah Mae Guimba

For Hannah, nursing is the first step toward becoming a doctor. Born and raised in the heart of Culion, she is a descendant of the island's former leper colony. While Culion has moved past its history as a segregated leper settlement, descendants like Hannah still face social discrimination. Her drive to serve comes from watching patients in Culion struggle to reach medical care in time.

"To be able to study my dream course for free, make a difference, and serve in the place where I grew up... is a huge privilege."

Niña Guimba

Niña also comes from a family of leper descendants, a heritage that carries both historical weight and modern-day challenges of prejudice. She views nursing as a "pre-dental" foundation for her ultimate goal: becoming a dentist. Driven by the dental health challenges she saw her classmates face, she wants to bring specialized care back to her home. Niña’s heart for service stems from watching her mother and aunt teach in remote IP communities.

"I believe that by becoming a dentist, I can make a difference in the lives of those who have long been underserved, providing them not only with the necessary treatments but also with the opportunity to live healthier and more confident lives."

Mariel D. De Luna

Mariel, a half-Tagbanua, understands the weight of sacrifice. As the second of eight siblings, she watched her older brother give up his own education so she could finish senior high school. Now, she carries a "quiet but persistent dream" for the youth of Culion. For Mariel, education is the ultimate tool for justice and dignity.

"I envision a Culion where indigenous people can pursue professions, speak with authority, lead communities, and shape their own futures."

A Future of Service

At the Self-Reliant Farm and WE Foundation, our goal is to empower the poor and indigenous communities through education. By supporting Hannah, Niña, and Mariel as they head to Olongapo, we are investing in a future where Culion’s own youth return as health professionals, ready to lead and heal.

Please join us in Congratulating our scholars! We invite you to stay tuned for updates on their journey at Gordon College.