“Hard work definitely pays off”
Zyrah Bitoon Josol, a 25-year-old student from Davao del Norte State College, has always believed in the power of perseverance. Guided by the principle that consistent effort leads to success, she remained focused and motivated, even when life tested her in the harshest ways.
Growing up, comfort was a rare luxury. Zyrah, the eldest among the 7 siblings, faced a particularly difficult time when both of her parents, the family’s only breadwinners, lost their jobs. With no stable income, she was overwhelmed by the pressure of helping meet their daily needs. The weight of responsibility and uncertainty left her hopeless.
Despite financial struggles, Zyrah clung to her dream of becoming a licensed social worker. Just as she was beginning to lose hope, the KALAHI-CIDSS Cash-for-Work Program for Higher Education Institutions became a turning point in her life.
The program allowed Zyrah to participate in meaningful community development projects aligned with her academic background. In return, she received financial support that helped ease the burden on her family and covered her board exam review costs. Assigned to work at the Information Office of her college, Zyrah diligently carried out her tasks, earning enough to pay for review materials, transportation, and other daily expenses.
“Didto gyud ko nakasulti nga dili lalim diay mangita og kwarta. Hapit nako mawad-an og paglaum pero salamat kaayo sa nahimong intervention sa KALAHI-CIDSS program ug sa suporta nga ilang nahatag sa ako pinaagi sa Cash-for-Work, kay nahuman gyud nako akong pag-eskwela ug naka-provide gyud ko para sa akong board exam review and final coaching, [That was when I truly realized how difficult it is to earn money. I was close to losing hope, but I’m very thankful for the KALAHI-CIDSS program and the support they gave me through the Cash-for-Work, because I was able to finish my studies and provide for my board exam review and final coaching.] ” Zyrah shared.
In September 2024, all her sacrifices bore fruit. Zyrah successfully passed the Licensure Examination for Social Workers and finally became the professional she had long aspired to be.
Her journey taught her patience, faith, and the value of trusting that the right help will come at the right time. Today, Zyrah works as an Administrative Assistant at the Municipality of Carmen Information Office, where she continues to inspire others.
More than a personal achievement, her story is an inspiration to young people. Zyrah proves that with hard work, resilience, and timely support, even the most challenging situations can be overcome.
Through programs like Cash-for-Work, Kalahi-CIDSS continues to empower individuals, create opportunities, and build stronger, more resilient communities. For Zyrah, the program was not just a source of income, it was the bridge that carried her from hopelessness to success, from dreaming to achieving.
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