MANILA, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 – Jordan Brand Wings Scholars Program, the global community impact initiative dedicated to providing educational opportunities to underprivileged youth, welcomed the Class of 2027 in the Philippines.
Jordan Brand’s long-term commitment to the Philippines has continued to make a lasting impact in a nation where basketball culture is deeply ingrained. In 2022, the Philippines became the first country in Southeast Asia to join the global Wings initiative after North America, China and France, inspiring youth around the world to achieve greatness on their own terms.
This year the Jordan Brand Wings Program added six more students who will join the global community of Wings scholars and fulfill their dreams of excelling in life through quality higher education. The students will each receive four-year scholarships, allowing them to pursue the course of their choice at Ateneo de Manila University.
Inspired by Michael Jordan’s legacy and commitment to education, the Wings scholars program encourages perseverance against all odds in pursuit of a goal – both on and off the court. Continuing this legacy, the announcement of the second batch of scholars was made during halftime of Ateneo Blue Eagles 2nd round game at the UAAP Season 86, celebrating the scholars’ excellence on the court and in the classroom.
“Wings exists to empower youth and help them unlock the greatness within themselves. Through the power of education, everyone can fly,” says Jino L. Ferrer, Country Marketing Manager, Nike Philippines.
In partnership with children's rights organization, Bahay Tuluyan, the scholars will also be provided with personalized coaching, career guidance and mentorship throughout their four-year tenure at the university.
Many of the 2nd batch of Jordan Brand Wings scholars are first-generation college students within their families, highlighting the program's dedication to breaking barriers and creating opportunities for those who need it most.
“The spirit of excellence inspired by the Jordan Wings Scholarship Program continues with the Batch of 2027 who want to excel at life through education and also pay it forward by making a difference to the community - a value that closely matches Jordan Brand’s purpose,” added Ferrer
To date, Jordan Brand Wings works with more than 30 partners globally to unlock access to education and mentorship for disadvantaged youth and has already funded around 2,900 students and more than 16,500 semesters since 2015.
Meet the Wings Scholars from the Philippines, Class of 2027
Hailing from various regions, these six scholars are set to graduate in 2027, as they pursue careers driven by their aspirations to make a meaningful impact on society in their chosen fields.
Maj Comedoy from Palo, Leyte is pursuing an AB in Diplomacy and International Relations, as it embodies his passions, interests, and goals for the future. His lifelong dream is to become a Philippine Ambassador to the United Nations General Assembly, and to promote peace and welfare among fellow nations. Coming from Tacloban Province, Comedoy believes in setting a vision and working towards it. “I want to succeed not only for my family, but also for my peers in my province (Tacloban) who are told to dream smaller. I want to inspire and remind them that if I can do it, anyone can,” he says.
Jeff Daragay from Culiat, Quezon City has a keen interest in science. Upon completion of his BS in Materials Science and Engineering, he plans to embark on a career as a researcher in nuclear chemistry. He also intends to further his education and complete his master’s and doctorate degrees in future. “I wanted to focus on Science because I know there’s opportunity in this field to make a change in the world. Doing good is my genuine goal,” says Jeff.
Andrew Dumangas, a sports enthusiast from Antipolo, Rizal, has a vision of becoming a neurosurgeon. The Biology student believes that hard work will always outweigh talent, no matter where you come from. “Believe you can, and you will,” says Andrew.
Princess Giron from Baliwag, Bulacan, is set to combine her love for computers and zeal for learning new things by majoring in BS in Computer Science - Digital Game Design and Development. She aspires to give back to society by contributing her expertise as a programmer or computer scientist. “I want to lead the way to change our nation. I believe anyone can help make a change, but it starts by saying ‘I want to’,” she says.
“I see the difficulties that people with disabilities face every day. That is why I dream of a future where the disabled never feel alone in their daily struggle,” says Dave Predigua from Makati City who plans to major in Computer Science. He envisions a career as an AI engineer who develops software applications that can help other people in need, especially the disabled within the community. “One day, I’m going to develop an AI app that caters to people with special needs,” promises Dave.
“You don’t need to be the stereotypical student athlete; you can be great in your own way,” believes Rae Tolentino from Cebu City who has her sights set on becoming a doctor. Majoring in Psychology as her pre-med course, she hopes to gain a deeper understanding of the many factors that affect human behaviour, ultimately empowering her to become a more compassionate and better doctor in future. The football athlete plans to specialize in Sports Psychology in medical school, leveraging her knowledge and experience to help fellow athletes.
