Raising Hope: Meet Three Filipina Women Making An Impact In Education

Vogue Philippines celebrates International Women’s Day through “Raising Hope,” in a call for nominations of inspiring women. Discover the stories of three Filipina women who dedicate their lives to empowering communities through education.

Educators play a pivotal role in shaping the future, and so Vogue Philippines dedicates this section to women who go above and beyond to empower and inspire their students. Through their unwavering commitment to the pursuit of knowledge, these dedicated teachers, mentors, and education advocates impart knowledge, guidance, inspiration, and a lifelong love of learning that will ripple through generations to come. 

Michelle Victoria De Leon, Nominated by Evangeline Wandag

According to Evangeline Wandag, for 13 years, she has personally known Michelle Victoria De Leon as her girlfriend and best friend. “From the moment I saw her, she has consistently demonstrated outstanding qualities that make her a true inspiration,” Wandag shares.

But this is not all that there is to know about De Leon. She is a passionate advocate for various social causes and actively engages in projects that promote inclusivity and diversity, as well as education and empowerment. “Michelle’s most commendable trait is her dedication to empowering those around her. Whether through her professional achievements or her involvement in community initiatives, she tirelessly works to uplift and support others,” Wandag shares. 

Among De Leon’s various projects is volunteering as an English teacher for Aeta students in Tuguegarao, Cagayan. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, she has also organized multiple events for queer people to have safe spaces to socialize.

Bella Tan, Nominated by Daff Foz-Pangan

According to Daff Foz-Pangan, in education, Bella Tan has made an impact as a mentor, author, and teacher. Together with her husband Jake Tan, Bella brought Waldorf education to the Philippines and continues to educate parents about keeping childhood sacred, healthy, and beautiful for children. As an author, she has written numerous children’s books that inspire and teach children and adults alike.

“I took Tita Bella’s workshop on early childhood education in 2017 and it has changed my life, the way I parent my child and my views on teaching children and even other parents,” Foz-Pangan shares.

Maria Consuelo “Ningning” Doble, Nominated by Giulliene Sanchez

According to Giulliene Sanchez, despite having a rough time during her early years, Maria Consuelo “Ningning” Doble has chosen to rise above it all. Doble is now her family’s breadwinner, a loving single mother, and the president and CEO of the non-government organization Filipino Children: LINKS-Building Bridges for Children. Through the organization, Doble has built more than 14 libraries all over the Philippines and has empowered communities with reading and comprehension programs.

“She has been a nurturing mother figure to all the volunteers of LINKS, and she continues to cultivate great community workers among us. We truly admire her sincerity, compassion, and strength to bring forth quality education to the Filipino children,” Sanchez shares.

Visit vogue.ph everyday this month for daily features on inspiring women, as nominated by the people whose lives they’ve changed.

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