The Pralong Prize rewards projects that help solve problems in the development sector. Can you tell us about your project?
Stitching Hope is a sewing-based social enterprise dedicated to empowering street girls in the Philippines who have endured trauma and exploitation. In partnership with Tahanan Sta. Luisa — a crisis intervention and recovery center rehabilitating girls who have faced physical and sexual abuse — this project revitalises an existing sewing program within the center. Beyond refurbishing sewing machines and restocking inventory, Stitching Hope takes on a holistic approach to empowerment by combining vocational skills training with financial literacy and entrepreneurship workshops. The programme aims to promote mental health through art therapy and foster economic independence, as a portion of the proceeds from product sales will go directly to the girls.
What inspired you to dedicate yourself to this cause?
My childhood in Metro Manila left an indelible impression — scenes of children begging on the streets and living in conditions of extreme poverty were part of my daily life.
It wasn't until I moved to California that I realised these scenes were far from ordinary. The stark contrast heightened my awareness of social inequities and fueled my desire to address them. Since university, I have been involved in initiatives focused on improving the health and well-being of women and girls globally. One such project involved sewing menstrual pads for schoolgirls in low-income countries. It became clear to me how something seemingly mundane, like sewing, has the profound potential to promote resilience, independence, and dignity in girls. Stitching Hope is a culmination of these formative experiences.
What does it mean to you to have won the Pralong Prize? How will it help your project develop?
Winning the Prix Pralong is a tremendous honour and a full-circle moment in my personal and academic journey. In my motivation letter for admission to the Graduate Institute, I shared a poignant childhood memory of street children begging for food, which ignited my passion for advocating for marginalised groups. Being a student here has given me the opportunity to bring that early inspiration to life through Stitching Hope. This is particularly meaningful as it marks my first foray into project design and implementation. The Pralong Prize has been pivotal in developing Stitching Hope, enabling us to expand the programme, ensure its sustainability, and reach more girls in need.
What do you study at the Geneva Graduate Institute, and how has your time here helped you towards your goals?
I study International and Development Studies with a specialisation in Global Health. Geneva offers a singular academic environment, unparalleled in its access to international organisations and thought leaders in the field of global health. My time here has been invaluable, equipping me with the theoretical and practical tools necessary to pursue my goals in maternal and reproductive health. The flexibility to tailor my coursework to align with my specific interests has deepened my understanding of key global health issues and refined my approach to advocating for marginalised populations. Additionally, the interdisciplinary nature of my studies has broadened my insight into the complexities of health systems and social inequities.
