Some moments fade with time, but certain experiences leave an indelible mark, shaping not just one’s path but his or her very identity.
For Atty. Marmie Deniega and Amanda Hora, the SM scholarship application they once accomplished and submitted wasn’t just a gateway to education. It paved the way for the life they live today.

Hora’s story as an SM scholar began when she stumbled on a Facebook post about the SM scholarship application.

“It has always been my dream to pursue quality education. I enrolled in a university in Senior High School because of a scholarship, and I knew that the only way to continue my college years at the same university was to obtain another full scholarship. That was why I didn’t hesitate to apply for the SM scholarship, hoping to be accepted,” recalled Hora. 

Shortly after, an email from the SM Foundation lit up her phone’s screen, informing her that she had been selected for the program.

“I pursued college because I wanted to become the first in our family to get a college degree,” said Hora. “My parents did not finish their studies due to financial difficulties, but they’ve always been supportive of my dreams and aspirations. Also, I believe in the importance of quality education. It is something that nobody can take away.”

Hora’s scholarship opened doors throughout her college years. Beyond the academic realm, she was able to join competitions, intern at prestigious firms and build a network that extended far beyond the classroom. 

“As a scholar, the foundation’s programs and webinars allowed me to hear inspiring stories from other scholars, mentoring and motivating us to pursue our goals. When Covid-19 affected the country and whenever there were calamities, the SM Foundation looked after us. They provided us with tools that are essential for remote learning. It made me feel that I am part of a bigger family and that I am not alone in this journey,” she said.

Hora graduated cum laude with a degree in BS Accountancy in 2023. Now, she aims to contribute to the community by creating a ripple effect of kindness.

“I would use my knowledge to find ways to provide livelihood programs, especially in areas or communities where it is much needed. I would also advocate for financial literacy to help people effectively manage their finances and build resilience, especially during unpredictable life events. I would also use my story to inspire the youth, especially current and future scholars, and remind them to never give up on their dreams,” she said.

Unattainable dream, until…

Much like Amanda is CPA-lawyer Marmie Dyan Deniega.

Raised by a single mother amid financial struggles, she thought a college degree was an unattainable dream, until she chanced upon a TV commercial about the SM College Scholarship.

Deniega submitted her application at the nearest SM Mall, and the scholarship became the cornerstone of her academic success. Graduating with cum laude honors in Accountancy from the University of San Jose-Recoletos, she credited the scholarship for providing not only financial support but also the freedom to focus on her studies. 

Now, Deniega serves as an Attorney III at the Business Permit and Licensing Office of Mandaue City, actively contributing to her community’s development. She helped streamline the business permit processes in her city, making them more accessible to constituents.

As a firm believer in spreading social good, she finances the education of her siblings while actively engaging in community-based projects. She also serves as a resource speaker in schools for several crucial topics, such as the Anti-Bullying Law, and, through the Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Cebu Chapter, she volunteers with Law Inc., an organization helping victims of Violence Against Women and Children.

Hora and Deniega’s stories are not just individual triumphs but testaments to the impact of education. Each year, countless dreamers like them are empowered to pursue their academic aspirations and chart their paths to success through the SM College Scholarship Program.

As the application for the SM College Scholarship Program opens on 1 February and runs until 31 March 2024, countless more lives stand to be touched.