Amid the turbulent seas of life comes the myriad chances wrapped in distinct forms, shapes, and patterns.

This rings true to twenty two year old aspiring restaurateur Rhea Mae Dario.

Growing up, the young lass uttered her childhood dream and love for cooking.  Lack of resources, however, was one of the factors that affected Rhea’s pursuit of education.

Her situation eventually fueled the desire to take a technical course of Cookery NC II through the Youth Access to Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Online Program (TOP). This is funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Opportunity 2.0 Program.

As one of the banner programs of USAID, the Opportunity 2.0 project gave emphasis on collaborative efforts forged to implement endeavors that provide relevant education, employability skills and work experience.

To recall, it was in 2022 when USAID inked ties with the Iloilo City government and stakeholders through the project to pursue shared goals of tapping the potential of the marginalized youth geared towards growth and development.

According to Dr. David Hall, chief of party, USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program Education Development Center, the P1.9 billion big-ticket project covers 15 cities in the country beginning last March 2020 until February 2025.  

The Opportunity 2.0 program sought partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) and TESDA for engaging the youngsters for learning opportunities such as the enhanced Alternative Learning System and various skills training programs.

The private sector, too, such as the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Iloilo City Chapter expressed enthusiasm for this worthwhile endeavor. In fact, they have vowed to help in the livelihood generation. This included facilitating upskilled youth to new jobs, further training or additional support in business start-ups as mentors, speakers, or work immersion hosts.

Second chances often happen. But when it doesn’t, people tend to regret and then there is anguish. Second chances equate to rise from the ashes, a neon light at the end of the tunnel, good news for that matter. And to some, it is about making things right the second time around.  

As for Rhea, her recent diploma marked a second shot in realizing her full potential.  It mirrored a renewed hope. Hope that painted encouraging change in the community, more so in her vivid life.

So, cheers to second chances that spell brighter days! (AAL/LMLE/PIA Iloilo)