Merciline grew up here! It is rare to find someone like her in this area (where our production plant is located) -- A local female who graduated high school and college, graduating with an engineering degree. It's a huge accomplishment!
But opportunities for jobs, especially safe jobs, in this rural seaside village are few are far between. Many families are split or end up in corrupt jobs because of this lack of opportunity.
After all of Merciline's hard work and she's left without a job!
"When you are trapped in poverty; or trapped in grief and depression; life looks like it has no options. And especially in the case of poverty or in an at-risk community, there are very few opportunities and options. It is a relentless grind. One way we know we are on track with Dignity is if our small task of creating jobs, then creates opportunities for someone else. A way out of the poverty cycle!" - Stephen, CEO of Dignity Coconuts
After a tough job search, she finally found Dignity Coconuts. Two years ago, she started with our team and jumped right in on a rigorous clean water project to pipe, purify, and distribute clean drinking water to the local area. She has done a significant job and we are so thankful for her!
Reflecting on these two years, Merciline says, "I was able to conduct multiple experiments on improvement of oil recovery, equipment efficiency, and wastewater treatment. I was also given the opportunity to join the team in-charge of the Wadi Project and helped in the preparation of documents and acquisition of permits prior to the implementation of the project. I was able to develop graphic design skills, learn how to drive, create some internal databases, formulate a Safety Manual and SOP, ensure compliance with the DENR, and conduct lectures on solid waste management."
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