Journey of Progress: Tracking the Academic Achievements of ISA Scholars At ISA Australia, we believe that education is more than just a pathway to success—it is a lifeline of opportunity, especially for young people who would otherwise be left behind. What started as a grassroots initiative to support aspiring international students has now grown into a globally connected enterprise that has empowered hundreds of lives across borders. From Grassroots to Global Reach In 2021, ISA Australia’s founder, Dona Leach, launched the ISA Scholarship Program—a flagship project built on advocacy and compassion. Its goal was simple but powerful: to support academically gifted yet financially disadvantaged Filipina students in rural Cagayan Valley, Philippines. In just two years, the results have been inspiring: 32 ISA scholars awarded full scholarships, paired with mentorship in education, leadership, and career development. Partnerships formed in the Philippines with 10 public schools under the Department of Education and 1 higher education institution under CHED, across 6 municipalities of Cagayan Valley. Partnerships in Australia and New Zealand with 5 education agencies, 4 Australian institutions, and 4 registered training organisations. Beyond numbers, Dona’s model has inspired similar grassroots scholarship programs in two other provinces and gained the attention of education and women’s rights advocates across the ASEAN region. Academic Progress and Achievements The heart of the ISA Scholarship Program lies in the progress of its scholars. Each student is more than a recipient of financial aid—they are mentored, guided, and encouraged to grow as future leaders. Our tracking process includes: Term reports that highlight academic performance, school participation, and personal challenges. Mentorship check-ins where principals and teachers provide not just academic guidance, but life skills coaching and emotional support. Personal development and leadership plans that encourage scholars to take on roles that build confidence, resilience, and a sense of responsibility to their communities. The results have been remarkable. Scholars have consistently maintained strong academic standings, many ranking in the top tier of their classes. Several have been recognised for leadership roles in school organisations, debate teams, and community projects—proof that they are not only excelling in academics but also stepping into leadership. Looking Ahead As we track the progress of our scholars, one truth shines through: investing in education creates ripples of change far beyond the classroom . Each ISA scholar carries with them the potential to uplift their families, inspire their peers, and transform their communities. The Journey of Progress is just beginning. With every new partnership, mentor, and supporter who joins hands with ISA Australia, we are building not only brighter futures for individual students, but also a stronger, more empowered generation of Filipina leaders. At ISA, we don’t just measure grades, we measure lives transformed.
At ISA Australia, we believe that real change happens when we work hand-in-hand with those who know students best, their teachers, principals, and schools . Education is not just about giving financial support. It’s about building bridges between students, families, and educators so that learning is stronger, fairer, and more meaningful. Working Together with Schools Our scholarship program is successful because we don’t do it alone. Every ISA scholar is supported not only by our team, but also by their school community . Principals and teachers play an important role in identifying students with both strong potential and genuine financial need. They help ensure that scholarships go to those who will benefit most. Teachers as Mentors When a student becomes an ISA scholar, they also gain a mentor, usually a teacher or their principal. These mentors do more than check on grades. They: Provide guidance with schoolwork and personal challenges Encourage students to develop confidence and resilience Help them create personal growth and leadership plans This mentoring relationship means students are never alone on their journey. They always have someone cheering them on and helping them navigate challenges. Shared Responsibility Schools also help safeguard the proper use of scholarship funds. Principals sign agreements to ensure the money is used only for education. Parents are involved too, so everyone, ISA, schools, and families, works together with the same goal: supporting the child. This shared responsibility strengthens trust and ensures that every peso directly benefits the scholar. Beyond Academics Collaboration with schools also allows us to care for the whole student . Teachers notice when a student might be struggling emotionally, socially, or financially. Through regular reports and check-ins, ISA can respond quickly, offering extra support when needed. We also encourage scholars to take part in school activities and leadership opportunities , helping them develop not only as students, but as future community leaders. Creating a Cycle of Giving Back The partnership doesn’t stop when students graduate. Many ISA alumni continue to stay connected with their schools and mentors, serving as role models for younger students. This creates a cycle of mentorship, where today’s scholars inspire tomorrow’s. Building a Brighter Future Together ISA Australia’s collaboration with local schools is about more than education, it’s about building bridges of trust, care, and shared responsibility . By working closely with principals, teachers, and families, we make sure every scholar has the tools, guidance, and support they need to thrive. Together, we are not just funding education, we are nurturing leaders, strengthening communities, and creating brighter futures.
Every year, we meet young students with big dreams but heavy challenges. Some walk long distances to school. Others share one book between siblings. Many are bright, determined, and full of potential—but their families simply don’t have the means to keep them in school. This is where the ISA Scholarship Program steps in. Through this financial aid, we don’t just provide financial aid—we create a circle of support around each student, involving teachers, parents, and the community. Here’s the journey of how we choose and support our scholars: “I was nervous to apply…” When a student applies, they submit their grades and a short essay about their dreams. Their barangay captain or community leader confirms the family’s financial situation with a Certificate of Indigency . This way, we know the support goes to those who truly need it. “My teacher became my mentor.” Once chosen, every scholar is paired with a mentor —usually their teacher or principal. These mentors don’t just look at report cards. They guide students through tough times, celebrate their wins, and encourage them to keep going. Scholars meet with their mentors regularly to check progress, talk about challenges, and set new goals. “The stipend helped us a lot.” Parents and guardians also become part of the program. They sign an agreement to make sure the stipend is used only for school needs—like transport, uniforms, meals, or books. This way, families know exactly what the scholarship is for, and students feel supported both at home and at school. “The community believes in me.” The local community plays a role too. By validating financial need and celebrating each scholar’s achievement, they help ensure fairness and transparency. Scholars don’t just receive support—they also gain the trust and encouragement of the people around them. “I want to give back one day.” At the end of each term, students and mentors send in reports. These updates track not just grades but also participation in school activities and personal growth. Scholars also create leadership plans , preparing them to become role models. And when they graduate, many return as peer mentors for the next generation, creating a beautiful cycle of giving back. More Than Just a Scholarship The ISA Scholarship Program is about more than financial support. It’s about: Fairness – making sure the right students are chosen. Mentorship – teachers and principals guiding students with care. Community – families and leaders working together. Well-being – caring for the student as a whole person, not just a scholar. Leadership – inspiring students to one day lead and give back. Every scholar’s journey is unique, but they all share one thing: a brighter future made possible by the support of many. At ISA, we don’t just fund education—we build futures, one student at a time.