Kleizelle, 17, from Bacolod, has always been surrounded by stories. As a Grade 12 student and Editor-in-Chief of her school’s publication, she has not only read stories but also created them. Her love for words was matched by her leadership roles with the Negrosanon Young Leaders’ Institute and Children Optimization for the Revitalization of the Environment.
Growing up, Kleizelle’s dreams shifted with the stories she encountered. At one point, she wanted to be a nurse, then a chef. But in sixth grade, her interest in numbers led her to set a new goal: to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
Then, an unexpected opportunity opened her eyes to new possibilities.
When ChildFund Philippines, in partnership with Child Initiative, launched a digital training center at her school, Kleizelle was introduced to the JOB for Youth program. Initially curious, she soon attended a session on financial literacy that completely changed her perspective. She learned that managing money wasn’t just about saving, but about planning for the future. The program taught her how to develop better financial habits, an essential skill for any aspiring accountant.
More than just financial lessons, the digital training center became an invaluable tool in her education. Equipped with Wi-Fi and computers, it opened doors that weren’t available before. Researching for the school publication became easier, and learning itself became more interactive. As Kleizelle explored technology, she realized that ICT (Information and Communication Technology) skills were not just for programmers and engineers. They were crucial for fields like finance and business, helping her see new ways to integrate technology with her passion for numbers.
“Since we live in a digital world and everyone is using technology, it’s important for girls and women to be represented in ICT,” Kleizelle shared. “The training center gave me the confidence to explore opportunities in this field and use technology to support my passion for accounting.”
Through the JOB for Youth program, students like Kleizelle aren’t just learning about employment trends; they are gaining real skills to prepare for a tech-driven job market. The program connects students to opportunities in ICT, business, and other in-demand industries. It encourages students to complete senior high school, explore technical courses, and develop important soft skills, all of which align with Kleizelle’s goal of becoming a CPA.
The JOB for Youth program also builds strong partnerships with both the government and private sectors, providing students with access to apprenticeships, job placements, and entrepreneurial opportunities. For Kleizelle, the program didn’t change her dream, it strengthened it. Now, she envisions a future where finance and technology work together, offering more ways for her to make a difference.
From a childhood spent with books to a future supported by digital skills, Kleizelle’s journey shows that learning never stops. With the right tools and support, the possibilities are endless.
