Just seven years ago, Carla was a child with a big dream. Since starting in the Badjao Bridge Child Sponsorship program, Carla has become the first Badjao to earn a nursing degree. She is now working to finalize her license and to attain her Masters in Nursing.
What is the secret of her success? Carla says that Badjao Bridge gave her the support, resources, and inspiration to meet her goals.
Carla's personal message to you, her champions!
"Iʻm grateful to so many, especially to the ONE ABOVE who orchestrated everything. Thank you to Badjao Bridge, to the generous sponsors and hardworking staff - for trusting me that I would not put to waste the opportunity that they have given me. It did not only give me the chance to pursue college but it also give me the opportunity and platform to be able to help my Badjao brothers and sisters by sharing my knowledge in school to the kids through tutorials. It also motivates me to be better.
Once again, thank you. May God bless you more!”
INSPIRING HER COMMUNITY
Carla is already inspiring her Badjao community to pursue and achieve their education goals. Despite her challenging nursing program, Carla was there for the children who needed help. She voluntarily tutored after school every day.
Post graduation, Carla put her skills to use. She traveled by plane to the remote area of Palawan. Her mission was to educate the children to keep them healthy and to inspire them to pursue their own dreams.
Carla taught the children basic hygiene, including how to wash their hands. She knows that the simple act of washing hands can save lives in communities who experience malnutrition and have minimal access to health care. Even a small infection like pinkeye can lead to death if untreated.
The children loved Carla, loved their lessons, and were inspired! When Carla asked the children what they wanted to be when they grew up, many raised their hands and said, "I want to be a nurse, too!"
As the children learn and grow, the future of the Badjao becomes ever brighter. Thank you, Carla, for inspiring the children and us to live well today and into the future.