A Success Story: From Scholars to Growers of the Future

Steven and Rex, proud beneficiaries of the Coconut Farmers Scholarship Program (CFSP) – Plant Crops, have shown how education, when paired with hard work and determination, can transform lives. Coming from families of coconut farmers, both once thought that opportunities for growth were limited in the agricultural sector. But through TESDA scholarship programs, doors opened for them to learn, explore, and create new possibilities for their future.

As scholars of AGREA Farm School, Steven and Rex received formal training in Plant Crops, where they were introduced to sustainable farming methods, modern agricultural techniques, and the importance of diversification in livelihood. They learned that farming is not only about planting and harvesting but also about managing resources, maximizing opportunities, and thinking ahead for long-term growth.

Putting their learnings into action, the two ventured into different livelihood activities. One of their first projects was chicken production. With only ₱1,500 capital, they started raising 30 broiler chickens. Through daily care and proper monitoring, they were able to keep them healthy and fast-growing. By the 30th day, they were already able to sell them, earning ₱9,000 in return. This success story of turning a small capital into a larger profit became a motivation for them to continue and expand their efforts. Now, they are already planning to reinvest their earnings to scale up their chicken production in the coming cycles. But Steven and Rex did not stop there. They also invested their time and energy in goat and hog raising, knowing its long-term benefits. Goats provide meat, milk, and the potential to breed, making them a valuable source of steady income. Alongside this, they explored tilapia culture in a small fishpond, ensuring that their families have both a source of nutritious food and additional income when sold in the local market. These livelihood ventures, although modest in scale, reflect the couples’ growing entrepreneurial mindset and their determination to maximize every opportunity.

Recognizing the importance of sustainability and growth, Steven and Rex are now also exploring opportunities through local grants. By tapping into government and community support, they hope to secure additional resources that will allow them to expand their operations, improve their facilities, and reach more customers. For them, this is not just about income—it is about building a more secure and sustainable future for their families and becoming role models in their community.

Their journey proves how the TESDA scholarship program empowers the youth. It does not only provide education but also instills confidence and equips young farmers with practical skills to turn ideas into real livelihood opportunities. Their story has inspired their fellow scholars and even other youth in their community to see agriculture in a new light—not as a struggle, but as a meaningful, dignified, and rewarding path. As Steven and Rex proudly share their experience, they emphasize perseverance, innovation, and the importance of seeking support systems that help young farmers grow. With the knowledge and skills, they gained they are not only uplifting their families’ livelihoods but are also contributing to food security, rural development, and the promotion of agriculture as a vital force for nation-building.

Indeed, their story is more than just about raising chickens, goats, or tilapia. It is about resilience, vision, and the power of education to change lives. Their success story proves that with the right support, young farmers can rise as leaders who will make agriculture truly smart, cool, sexy, and humane.