“What’s one win from the last week, big or small, that you’re most proud of—and why?”

That single question turned the SEA Staff Weekly Meeting on September 8, 2025, into something more than updates. Presided over by Jean and opened with a prayer by Miss Nerita, the gathering became a celebration of victories—quiet and loud, personal and professional, ordinary and extraordinary.

Avha began with a smile, recalling her first accreditation experience: nervous but prepared, even scripting her lines to make sure she represented SEA well. It was, she said, a big step forward—and a win matched only by being able to attend church after. Leslie’s story unfolded under heavy rain. She was struck by how people still came to the PRA validation despite rivers to cross and long distances to travel. “The fact that they tried so hard to show up,” she said, “that’s a win.”

For Mayang, the triumph was simple but profound: a weekend of rest and recharge. Warren admitted he wrestled with frustration after a week of missed meetings, compounded by the passing of the ABC President. Yet even in that, he found hope. A committee hearing for accreditation became his small miracle: “Even with frustrations, you can still find wins. Hope healed my week.”

Atchmen’s validation work in Balabagan Oeste showed how data can turn into real impact. With 30% of the population being seniors, and near-universal access to sanitation and electricity, the findings were cause for both concern and celebration. The creation of the PIME team, with farmers and barangay leaders working together, was proof his sacrifices bore fruit. “Helping the barangay,” he reflected, “is already the biggest win.”

Carlo told of standing on his own for the first time, presenting IPAT-SIAD solo to a school principal. He adjusted his language to teacher’s jargon, saw skepticism turn into interest, and even gained support for future workshops. What stood out for him, though, was the kindness he met along the way—from Ma’am Chat of KALIPI offering him a safe place to stay, to the mayor himself supporting the farmers. “Be independent,” Carlo concluded, “and appreciate everything.”

Neri shared not just one, but two victories: successfully leading an orientation despite her worries, and watching her son graduate. “He still thanked me,” she said, her voice soft with pride, “even though I wasn’t as hands-on as I wanted to be.”

Ma’am Os offered a heartfelt thanksgiving for another year of life, another day of service. She told the story of being unexpectedly recognized by the mayor during an OFW meeting, proof that even quiet contributions are noticed. “Relationships matter,” she said. “Not only for work—but personally too.”

Jackie’s reflection was quiet but heartfelt, while Trixie confessed that simply being with SEA despite missing her family was already her victory: “I survived.” Angela highlighted how her PRA validation results bridged gaps in government data. Barangay captains, she said, appreciated not just the accuracy of the findings but the impact of SEA’s programs.

Cheryl celebrated two wins: passing her prelim exams—“road to attorney before 50!” she laughed—and making it to the top three for an $80,000 UN youth grant, out of 75 applicants worldwide. Anne’s week was full, balancing family and work victories. She beamed about her children traveling independently to Roxas and shared how SEA’s partnerships, like with LBF, were finding positive responses. “We don’t know if things will continue like this,” she admitted, “but at least we have backup.”

Jannah spoke of joy found in something simple: creating infographics and seeing people’s reactions. “That’s a win too,” she said, “seeing your work spark meaning.” Angelic’s triumph was waking up each day with purpose and strength to serve, this time by organizing a women’s group in Cadagmayan. “Women should always have a voice,” she declared. “We can do what men do. Our legacy is to make this organization prosper.”

Finally, Jean, presiding but also reflecting, smiled as she shared her own win: saving half her salary for future travels. It wasn’t just about the money—it was about discipline, boundaries, and proving to herself that goals can be met when you work for them.

By the end, the meeting felt less like a routine report and more like a tapestry of human victories—each thread unique, but woven together by gratitude, resilience, and purpose. And perhaps the biggest win of all was realizing that no triumph is too small to matter, and no challenge too big to overcome when shared.