MCI Scholar Lives a Meaningful Life

Janelle Sioco Ocariza, fondly known as “Ja” within the MCI Family, was born on January 12, 2007, in Tupi, South Cotabato, where she also spent her childhood. Growing up in a home she describes as simple yet full of love, Janelle was raised in an environment grounded in care, understanding, and strong family values. These early experiences shaped her character and laid the foundation for the person she continues to become today. Janelle is the third child of Rolando Libres Ocariza and Shiela Mangalay Sioco. She comes from a close-knit family where hard work, respect, and responsibility were consistently emphasized by her parents. Together with her siblings, she learned the importance of supporting one another through life’s ups and downs. Their bond is built on mutual encouragement and shared strength, which Janelle considers their unique love language.

From an early age, her family taught her how to communicate well, remain patient in the face of life’s challenges, and develop independence. These lessons helped her build meaningful connections with the people around her and shaped her worldview. Some of her earliest and fondest memories include laughing together during family meals, learning small responsibilities at home, and being lovingly guided by her parents. These moments gave her a strong sense of belonging, confidence, and work ethic as she grew older. As a child, Janelle enjoyed playing traditional Filipino games such as patintero, tumbang preso, tagu-taguan, and luksong baka. She spent many afternoons playing outdoors with friends and neighbors, experiences that taught her teamwork, creativity, and how to appreciate simple joys without relying on gadgets.

Her closest friend while growing up was her sister, with whom she shared a deep and meaningful bond. They enjoyed simple activities such as spending time with family, watching movies or series, and sharing meals together. Her sister’s caring and supportive nature gave Janelle someone she could always talk to, making her feel understood and never alone. School life was a positive and fulfilling experience for Janelle. She developed a strong interest in Science, inspired largely by her Science teacher, whose guidance and encouragement left a lasting impact on her academic journey. As a student, Janelle dreamed of becoming a registered nurse and succeeding in life—helping her family and achieving stability. These goals later became her driving motivation to continually improve herself. Currently, Janelle is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Mindanao, a path that reflects her desire to serve and care for others. She has also been part of the Minority Care International Student Association (MCISA) for almost seven months, an experience that further enriched her personal growth and sense of belonging. Her first job at a Turkish coffee house played a significant role in her development. Through this experience, Janelle learned how to interact confidently with customers, manage her time effectively, and work harmoniously with her co-scholars. The most meaningful part of her work was serving people and being part of a team that made customers feel welcomed and valued. This job taught her that true success comes not only from skills, but from consistency, respect, and genuine hard work.

One of the most challenging moments in Janelle’s life was the loss of her mother, an experience that deeply changed her path. Losing her mother was heartbreaking and required her to adjust to life without her guidance and support. Through this pain, Janelle learned resilience, patience, and the importance of taking responsibility for her family. Her mother remains the biggest influence on her life as well as becoming part of the MCI family. These moments remind her of her strength and motivate her to keep moving forward.

Today, Janelle hopes to be remembered as someone kind, responsible, and hardworking—a person who stayed true to her values and made a positive impact on others. If she could hold on to one memory forever, it would be the precious moments she shared with her mother and family during her younger years. These memories continue to give her comfort, strength, and inspiration to live responsibly and cherish the people she loves.

Through every experience—whether joyful or painful—Janelle Sioco Ocariza continues to grow into a determined young woman, committed to learning, serving others, and building a meaningful future.