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.