March 2026

Message from Ching Tien

Dear Friends and Supporters,

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, on behalf all the young women we support, I extend our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for your support!

International Women’s Day is a powerful moment to recognize all women in the world, and highlights the importance of equality, opportunity, and respect for all women. It is the day to remember the generations of brave women before us who fought for our rights and paved the path for us to walk on today. It is also a special time to reflect the importance of our Foundation’s work – empowering women from Asia to become leaders and changemakers.

Just a few hours ago, we organized an online event bringing together all of the Foundation’s scholars and alumni, along with our board members and supporters from around the world. A total of 32 women shared their journey of growth and transformation at the Foundation. It was a touching and inspirational gathering.

This online event was also the first chance for our 10 newly selected 2026 Undergraduate Leadership Program participants to meet each other, the Foundation scholars and our supporters. On new cohort of undergraduate students come from Bangladesh, China, Hong Kong, the Philippines and Vietnam. Please get to know them by reading their profiles below. I look forward to sharing updates on their on their journey and the growth from my future newsletters to you.

Meet our 2026 summer students

Leoraine De La Cruz
Country: The Philippines
University: Ateneo de Manila University
Major: Bachelor of Arts, Political Science

Raised by a single mother now working as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW), I carry a deep understanding of the economic hardships and overlapping challenges faced by women in both rural and urban areas. As I embark on the Ching Tien Foundation’s leadership program, I bring not only academic knowledge and leadership experience but also a strong sense of purpose to serve. I am deeply grateful to the Foundation for granting me this opportunity, which I will approach with discipline, humility, and a commitment to giving back responsibly.

Katherine Zong
Country: China
University: China University of Petroleum
Major: Petroleum Engineering

I have been sponsored by EGRC in my first year of undergraduate study. Now, the scholarship from the Ching Tien Foundation is like a beam of light shining into my life, opening up more opportunities and greater possibilities.

This journey to Canada offers a precious chance to connect with the wider world, to know ourselves better, to understand others, and to see the world with new eyes.

Hazel Borlagdan
Country: The Philippines
University: Ateneo de Manila University
Major: Bachelor of Science with a Specialization in Financial Management and Minor in Education

Being selected as one of the scholarship recipients of the Ching Tien Foundation affirmed my hope and aspiration to make a significant impact as a woman. Through the Undergraduate Leadership Program, I hope to further my leadership skills, strengthen my confidence, and gain a broader global perspective. I see my participation as a rare opportunity to learn from Ms. Ching Tien, and my fellow scholars whose diverse stories and experiences will undoubtedly shape my own.

Nahian Tasmim Orni
Country: Bangladesh
University: Asian University for Women (AUW)
Major: Computer Science

Joining this leadership program at the Ching Tien Foundation would give me the chance to learn in a diverse and dynamic environment, gain international exposure, and grow into a more independent and confident individual. I see this opportunity as more than just studying abroad—it is a chance to push myself beyond my comfort zone, connect with people from different cultures, and prepare for a future where I can create meaningful change. This experience would motivate me to give back to my community and empower other women to pursue their dreams.

Roan Jessa P. Bodino
Country: the Philippines
University: Ateneo de Manila University
Major: Diplomacy and International Relations with a Specialization in East and Southeast Asian Studies

Envisioning spending a month in Canada feels both exciting and humbling. It is a chance to grow beyond what is familiar while carrying my roots with me. Growing up in a Filipino Household surrounded by my extended family, this transition inspires hope, independence, and the courage to pursue opportunities that once felt so far away.

The Ching Tien Foundation’s scholarship makes it possible for me to learn, build, and contribute meaningfully to the people who need us and to the society we aspire to create.

Minjing Li
Country: China
University: Northwest Minzu University
Major: Civil Engineering

Becoming a member of the Ching Tien Foundation for Women feels like opening a vibrant new chapter filled with endless possibilities and growth. This incredible opportunity to participate in the program is a dream come true. The scholarship is far more than financial support; it is a profound vote of confidence in my potential. Knowing that an organization believes in my journey empowers me to strive for excellence every single day. I am deeply honored and ready to embrace this adventure with an open heart and a determined spirit.

Lisa Rai
Country: Hong Kong, China
University: City University of Hong Kong
Major: Accounting

I am excited to learn about global leadership as it represents a pathway to making a positive impact on the world. The Ching Tien Foundation has shown me that nothing is impossible when you have determination and the right support. This belief fuels my passion for growth and encourages me to embrace challenges. Together, we can make a difference and empower future generations.

Erica Deliguer
Country: The Philippines
University: Ateneo de Manila University
Major: Bachelor of Arts, English Literature

This Ching Tien Foundation’s scholarship is an empowerment for me to dream more and be of service for a greater range of people with my field and skills.

Spending a month in Canada feels both exciting and humbling, as it represents a chance to grow in a new environment and at the same time carry my values, dreams, and experiences with me. I am looking forward to meeting new people, being exposed to new things, and expanding my horizons that will all enlarge my heart and improve my service for others.

Ekra Rahman Oakia
Country: Bangladesh
University: Asian University for Women (AUW)
Major: Computer Science

The Ching Tien Foundation’s scholarship means opportunity, growth, and the encouragement to become a confident, responsible, and impactful woman. Most importantly, this opportunity would inspire me to give back to my community and support other women in the future.

Spending a month in Canada would be a life-changing opportunity for me to grow both academically and personally. It would allow me to experience a diverse learning environment, gain global exposure, and become more independent and confident.