In an effort to support the success of its scholars, the SM Foundation is opening career pathways within the SM Group for its alumni.
The foundation hosts dedicated job fairs during annual graduation ceremonies and actively recruits through digital platforms, allowing SM scholars to explore employment opportunities across the organization’s diverse portfolio
Among those who have transitioned from scholars to employees are Allen Bermejo, Cherry Antonio, Roma Hierro, and Michael Lumahan.
Allen Bermejo, a cum laude Accountancy graduate from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, expressed gratitude for her scholarship, which helped her complete her studies. After graduating, she applied for a job at the SM Foundation.
“In my first week, I started processing tuition fees and allowances for the scholars. It was a lot of work, but I knew how important this role was in ensuring that the scholars could focus on their studies without financial worries,” she said. “It felt fulfilling to know that someone had done this for me before—and now, I get to support the next generation of scholars.”
Cherry Antonio, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Management Accounting from Batangas State University, views her job at SM Foundation as a chance to give back.
“I am happy and enjoy my work, knowing that many future scholars will benefit from what we do,” she said.
Roma Hierro, a program supervisor and Mathematics graduate from the University of the Philippines, has been with SM Foundation for seven years. She initially volunteered before applying for a job.
“I’m happy that the company that gave me a brighter future through the SM scholarship is now my employer,” she said, adding that she leads the digitization program for the Health & Medical team.
Michael Lumahan, who recently graduated in Business Administration from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, works with Hierro on the foundation’s medical missions.
“Working directly in the field and collaborating with various stakeholders brings a unique sense of fulfillment,” he said, emphasizing that every program they implement can change lives.
Through its initiatives, the SM Foundation continues to empower scholars, fostering a new generation of changemakers within the organization.
