- 0933 863 9601
- sherwinmerca@gmail.com
- Makati, Philippines
The foundation, established by Mr. Sherwin Titan Merca, began informally in 2015 during his tenure as a college professor and program head at a business and accountancy school in Lucena City, Philippines. During this period, he witnessed firsthand the financial struggles of underprivileged yet deserving students—young individuals whose dreams and potential often went unrealized due to economic hardship.
Mr. Merca saw many talented and dedicated learners forced to abandon their studies, not because of a lack of ability or ambition, but simply because they lacked the financial means to continue. Deeply moved by their circumstances and inspired by their resilience, he felt compelled to take action. He envisioned a way to support these young Filipinos who, if given the opportunity, could become leaders, innovators, and positive contributors to society.
Driven by his belief in the transformative power of education, Mr. Merca began assisting students out of his personal resources, motivated by a desire to empower youth from challenging backgrounds to reach their full potential.
As the number of scholars grew, the need for a formal structure became clear. In 2022, the initiative was fully organized into what is now known as Niels & Nelson Scholarship Foundation Inc., a legally established foundation dedicated to educational empowerment.
The foundation is named in honor of two inspirational figures: the late Dr. Jan Anton Niels Mulder, whose humanitarian spirit left a lasting impact, and former African President Nelson Mandela, a global symbol of resilience, justice, and transformative leadership. Their names reflect the foundation’s enduring commitment to uplifting lives, fostering equality, and creating pathways for meaningful change.
To give college scholarships to less fortunate yet deserving young individuals to fulfill their dreams and become a more valuable member of the society.
The foundation envisioned itself to be a vehicle of change in giving opportunities to underprivileged young individual that has the potential to excel themselves and bring the best that they can offer to the world.
