MAFI hired Jessmar in 1994 as its Project Development Assistant. Because of his involvement in church activities, he knows the importance of loving one’s work and being deeply inspired to deliver results. Working in MAFI has made him enhance this belief, owing to his work experience with indigenous peoples (IPs).
“Dealing with IPs has enabled me to acquire the virtue of humility, to be good, and believe in the virtuousness of my workmates. Although my job is challenging, it has inspired me as it is aligned with my core values,” said Jessmar, who now serves as MAFI’s program director.
“Evidently, MAFI has been a vital part of my life. It is where I have developed and matured as a person. It has formed and honed me, providing appropriate skills and values for me to grow holistically. It is probably the reason why I have stayed on even though my salary is not that big,” he explained.
He reflected that his love, devotion, and passion for his work has, one way or another, helped MAFI scholars develop discipline, manners, and values.
Jessmar initiated MAFI’s House Parenting Volunteerism Program where all foundation staff, except for its cook and executive director, commit an extra hour in assisting scholars. He has also initiated and strengthened the Solidarity of MAFI Alumni Scholars to encourage its members to organize fund-raising events and give back to the foundation. Aside from being in charge of MAFI’s Education Development Program, he also initiated its scholars association and parents-scholars organization.
“It is in MAFI where I truly learned how to deliver effective public service, and to empower IPs so they can effectively assert their rights. I will continue to assist MAFI in crafting new projects that are relevant to the present time, including reinforcing IP culture,” he said, adding that MAFI can enhance its services and focus on new advocacies and projects that are relevant to the current needs of IPs.
Jessmar A. Campo
Program Director
