Growing up in the Philippines was both a blessing and a challenge. In a culture where beauty standards are often very narrow, being different can make you feel like an outsider. The ideal image in my community was someone tall, fair-skinned, with thin lips and chinky eyes—features I didn’t have. Instead, I was morena (brown-skinned), with big eyes, pouty lips, and a very skinny frame. Because of that, I was considered the "ugly duckling." People often treated me differently than my siblings. I wasn’t just a child finding my place in the world; I had to earn it.

One memory is etched into my mind from a family gathering, where I overheard someone refer to me as “latak” — the dregs of coffee, something you don’t want. At that time, I didn’t fully grasp the insult. Once I understood it, however, I knew I had to prove them wrong. That same evening, I stood in front of over 50 relatives, performing with all my heart—singing, dancing, reciting poems—anything to show that I was more than what they saw on the outside.

It was a harsh realization, but one that shaped me early on: how you look and how you carry yourself really do matter in the world. Not just in the Philippines, but globally, people are often judged based on their appearance. Whether we like it or not, clothing, presentation, and manners are the lens through which many first see us.

I took this lesson and transformed it into my own superpower. Clothing became my armor, manners my shield. I realized that by dressing with intention and carrying myself with confidence and grace, I could change how people saw and treated me. It opened doors that I hadn’t even known existed. When you present yourself with elegance and purpose, it’s like sending a silent message that you’re worth knowing, worth listening to, worth investing in.

Today, as an image consultant, I help others unlock that same power within themselves. I teach people that the right clothing and impeccable manners are not just about following trends or being polite—they are tools that can help you achieve your goals. Whether you want to build better relationships, grow your career, or simply boost your self-esteem, how you present yourself can play a huge role.

If I’ve learned anything from my journey, it’s that we can all take control of our own narrative. So don’t wait for others to see your worth. Show them. The right outfit, a poised demeanor, and good manners can speak volumes about who you are and what you’re capable of. Trust me, those things can change your life as they changed mine.