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Hello, I am Levi, 37 years of age and I am a Project Leader here at Edmund Rice Ministries Foundation Philippines.
Can you tell us about your background?
I became interested in Community Development when I joined the Red Cross Youth (RCY) in 2002. I wanted to study social work at university but costs and distance prevented this. I joined the Philippine Military Academy-Marine Corps cadets in 2005. However, my father who was formerly in the Philippine army asked me to return home to study at a university near my hometown to “escape that suicidal trip” after being one of 10 victims of hazing in the Academy. I went home and studied for a degree in Business Administration. After graduating in 2012, I took my first job as a bank clerk. Following that, I was hired as a Project Officer by PLAN International.
How did you become involved in the Edmund Rice network?
I was introduced by a former co-student who was as Welfare Officer at Edmund Rice Services in Maasin City. I applied for a role and joined the Edmund Rice Network in 2014.
What inspires you most in your work?
The Charism of Blessed Edmund Rice; Presence, Compassion and Liberation is the thing that gave me “the Spirit” to share my life with communities and their people. During my time in the Edmund Rice Child Assistance and Livelihood Promotion (CALP) in Maasin City, we used to work “uphill” in the mountain Barangays (communities). CALP ensured that children from low income families had access to nutritious meals and supported mothers through a livelihood program so they could raise income to meet family needs. Through contact with these families I came to realise that I had little reason to complain in life when there are people who are really struggling but can still manage to smile. I have this motto from my college years that says “being a Christian, follow Christ – serve the People”. That I can help people in need, not just in financial ways, but by being present in someone’s life is a feeling of happiness that cannot be paid by any amount.
What difference has the Edmund Rice project made to your life?
Being part of Edmund Rice Ministries and its charism with people in communities makes my “Punto de Vista”, or my perspective on life, different. I have learnt how to be a servant and compassionate leader.
