Photo Credits : TESDA, Davao De Oro
In the realm of skilled craftsmanship, one individual’s journey from novice to medalist stands as proof of perseverance and opportunity.
Kjell S. Estudillo is a young man whose dedication and resolve have propelled him from humble beginnings to the winner’s podium.
Kjell is a 19-year-old second-year college student pursuing a degree in Business Administration at the Laak Institute Foundation, Inc. Hailing from a family of seven siblings, with him being the only son, he navigates life with a spirit of determination and purpose. His mother, employed in local government, and his father, a hardworking construction laborer, instilled in him the values of diligence and perseverance from an early age.
Kjell’s path to success began with the Tagum Cooperative scholarship: Tagum Cooperative TESDA Financial Assistance Program for Shielded Metal Arc and Welding NCII, which provided him with the opportunity to learn welding—a skill he initially lacked expertise in.
Graduating from the program not only equipped him with the necessary skills but also ignited a passion for craftsmanship within him. This newfound zeal led him to participate in competitions.
In the recently concluded Provincial Skills Competition, themed “Paglilinang ng Kasanayan, Para sa Magandang Kinabukasan”, competing against representatives from 13 TESDA Technology Institutions (TTIs) and Technical Vocational Institutions (TVIs) across the province of Davao de Oro. Kjell demonstrated unparalleled mastery and enthusiasm and emerged as a Silver Medalist in the welding category, showcasing his unwavering passion and talent.
For Kjell, the journey from novice to medalist has been transformative. Reflecting on his success, he expressed profound gratitude to Tagum Cooperative for its impactful program. He emphasized the importance of such initiatives in uplifting communities and offering hope and inspiration to those in need.
“Gusto ko magpasalamat sa Tagum Cooperative sa lifetime opportunity, pinaagi sa akong nakuha na skills. Unta magpadayon ang Tagum Coop nga ingon ani, pareha sa akoa nga wala’y skills, kanang sa mga tambay nga mahatagan sila’g opportunity na makakwarta tungod s