GOWN DESIGNER: Carl John Miranda
MAKE UP ARTIST: Aljon Ocampo
HANDLERS: Ian Torno & John Paul Turla
My first major experience in Senior High School was participating in the Lakan at Lakambini for Buwan ng Wika 2019. More than the competition itself, it felt greater to represent the different clothing inspired by the regions in the Philippines. I didn’t win the competition but it felt as if I did, as I am representing something bigger than myself.
Before I got the role of representing the Blue Team, I didn’t really wanted to participate in this event. Or maybe I wanted to, but I just didn’t have the courage to admit it that time. Other people were encouraging me to join, so I took the time to think about what I really want. It was in the last minute of the audition that I decided to sign up for myself. I knew I had to take the chance. Whatever the result may be, at least I gave it a shot.
We were 6 or 7 candidates during the first screening. The judges gave us time to take turns in walking and introducing ourselves. I didn’t know how well I did, but I know that I enjoyed it as I was laughing and just being myself when it was my turn. I kind of regretted it because I could have done better. Anyway, I just told myself that this is a competition of one’s self and not of others. Regardless of how well I did, the important thing was I was there and I conquered my fear of being seen.
Results were announced and fortunately, I was top 3. The rank of the results didn’t really matter to me at that time. I was just happy that I got in.
They required us to wear pageant heels for the second screening. For starters, I didn’t really have much experience in walking gracefully while wearing heels that is pretty much 6 inches. This brought my mind back to the days when I was competing for different titles.
Ms. Career Week 2018
I was given the awards Ms. Career Week 2018, Winsome Smile, and Best in Career Wear for this minor pageant but I was told by my handler that I should work on my walk. Fortunately, I was made aware of it early. A constructive criticism always comes in handy.
Handler: John Paul Turla
Ms. SMACP 2019
I was able to bag Ms. SMACP 2019 1st Runner Up, Ms. Congeniality, and Best in Sports Wear in this certain pageant. However, my handler still has some issues with the way I walk. It has not improved to the point that I can control my shoulders. She kept on insisting that I should learn how to walk with my foot heel first so that I can move my hips more, instead of my shoulders.
Handler: John Paul Turla
With the feedback I got from my handler, I was anxious for the second screening. I did my best to practice my walk at home. Luckily, I was able to improve it and overcome my anxiety before I went to take my turn. Overcoming it required the desire to really succeed, and that is where my confidence came from. I was able to show the judges who I really am just by walking. That alone was enough for me.
Results were announced and your girl got it!
GOOD NEWS: Since then, my walk improved. I was able to learn how to walk with my foot heel first. It turned out great. People were commending me for walking naturally, but showcasing my confidence and my personality at the same time.
“Practice creates confidence. Confidence empowers you.”
– Simone Biles
Aeb's Diary 