Why Stories Matter
The Heart of the Movement
DAVID Talks is the emotional centerpiece of our movement. When students share their stories — their struggles, breakthroughs, and moments of resilience — they create connections that professional programs alone can’t replicate.
“In every school, there is a student waiting to be understood. And sometimes, what they need most… is not a program — but a person.”
The Platform
DAVID TALKS: A National Platform for Student Voices
DAVID Talks is a TED-style national platform where student peer coaches share
real stories, lived experiences, and messages of hope.
A Stage for Courage
Students speak their truth and inspire others through authentic storytelling.
A Space for Truth
Real conversations that shape the national mental health narrative.
A Movement of Youth Voices
Student confidence, school visibility, and a culture of empathy — all on one national stage.
Part of the Journey
From Certification to National Stage
DAVID Talks is the culmination of the Project DAVID journey. After completing their certification (June–September 2026) and the National DAVID Bootcamp in Baguio City (October 8–10, 2026), certified peer coaches earn the opportunity to take the national stage — sharing their stories to inspire others across the Philippines.
Starting October 2026 onwards, DAVID Talks will serve as a permanent platform — amplifying youth voices, building national awareness, and proving that when students are given the stage, they change the conversation.
DAVID Champion
A Voice That Leads the Way
Abigail Punsalan
Project David Champion
” Being a Project David Champion has been a meaningful journey of growth and purpose. I’ve seen how simple acts of listening and guiding can help young people rediscover their strength, hope, and direction in life.
Project David creates a safe space where individuals are empowered to lead with compassion, build resilience, and make a difference in the lives of others.
If you’re looking for a community that nurtures both personal and purpose-driven growth, this is a journey worth being part of. “
Student Voices
Stories From Our Certified DAVIDs
Maria Xian Alexandria E. Pascual
St. Paul University Philippines
“Project David has helped me recognize my flaws and areas for growth in communicating with my peers. The sessions have been invaluable in shaping my daily interactions and broadening my perspective, prompting me to reflect more deeply on my actions. This has been particularly meaningful as I pursue psychology as my major, complementing my classroom learning with practical insights gained outside of academia, such as those from Project David.
Through the program, I’ve come to understand that being a peer coach is not merely about offering encouragement or motivation; it requires practicing empathy and carefully choosing our words. One of the most profound realizations from the sessions is the power of language: once spoken, words cannot be taken back, and they inevitably impact others, whether positively or negatively.
These lessons have inspired me to adjust my approach in ways that will strengthen my ability to support others, preparing me to become an effective peer coach. All in all, Project David is an invaluable resource for anyone aspiring to guide their peers, offer compassionate support, or simply become a dependable presence for those in need.”
Steavenford Louie E. Estrella
St. Paul University Philippines
“Being part of Project David is actually a great opportunity. As I will take Medicine in the future, it actually helps and guides me as I step up in my goals in life. Project david has become my guidelines on how I will help others physically and mentally.
Being Healthy doesn’t mean, free of diseases, it means we can fight diseases and avoid diseases in both physical and mental health well-being. Project David is a great and helpful way of preparing us in the future and how to help others, physically, socially and mentally.”
Rufian Cyrille M. Gazzingan
St. Paul University Philippines
“I am very grateful to be a part of Project David. All sessions were very insightful and inspiring. Everything is very relevant especially in today’s age where negativity can grow rapidly.
By having the ample knowledge on how to approach mental health and having the opportunity to be mental health coach is a blessing.
All in all, this project has thought me life lessons that I can apply for as long as I live.”
Dhan Marvin J. Mallillin
St. Paul University Philippines
“Project David inspires me to be inspiring. So much so that it kindled in me the passion of serving others in the most overlooked aspect of life which is the mental wellbeing.
In such a way that I may be able to become a bridge to helped them get close to those professionals in the field of mental health. Best regards to the Project David team, I hope more youth will be helped through this empathetic advocacy towards mental wellness.”
Maria Cassandra C. Somera
St. Paul University Philippines
“Project DAVID has been a transformative experience that empowered me not just with knowledge, but with heart. It helped me understand the deeper layers of mental health, the importance of empathy, and how vital it is to care for myself while supporting others.
The sessions were engaging, insightful, and truly applicable to real-life situations — I found myself growing both as an individual and as a peer supporter. More than just a program, it felt like a safe space where I was reminded that mental health advocacy starts with genuine human connection. I’m truly grateful to have been part of this journey.”
Vivienne Abad Agustin
St. Paul University Philippines
“Overall, Project David was an eye-opening experience that provided me with practical tools and deep insights into mental health. The program not only increased my awareness but also gave me actionable strategies to enhance my emotional well-being and communication skills.
I appreciated the holistic approach and the supportive community that the program fostered, and I feel better equipped to manage my own mental health while supporting others around me.”
Nazneen Shiloh A. Alconcher
St. Paul University Philippines
“The mental health classes provided valuable insights into managing stress, anxiety, and depression. I particularly appreciated the practical coping mechanisms taught to us, such as mindfulness techniques and communication strategies, which I’ve already started incorporating into my daily life.
The supportive group environment fostered open discussion and a sense of community, making the learning experience both informative and encouraging. While the overall project David took only months to teach the students, the overall impact of the classes has been positive, equipping me with tools to better navigate and provide me with solutions for mental health challenges and problems.
The classes were highly beneficial and had provided a strong foundation for improving mental well-being for us students.”
Michelle Angelenne B. Bantayan
St. Paul University Philippines
“Project David gave us invaluable insights and tools that promote personal growth and emotional well-being. Speakers were highly effective in delivering the topics, their expertise and engaging presentation style contributed significantly to the success of Project David.
The setting of the session shouldn’t be online, consider having it face – to – face for the students to really collaborate with each during sessions and create bonding with each other.”
Sophia Mae Q. Gamiao
St. Paul University Philippines
“Overall, Project David was a really eye-opening program that gave me practical tools for supporting mental health in myself and others. The sessions were engaging and informative, covering key topics like active listening and coping strategies.
I feel more confident now in recognizing mental health struggles and knowing how to help, and the experience definitely made me more aware of how important it is to reduce stigma and promote mental well-being in my community.”