by Khristina Ayson
Budding journalists of Philippine School Doha had a taste of a virtual journalistic interview last September 2 when the school’s official paper featured a PSD alumna, Janela Joy Cuaton, an official candidate to the Miss Universe Philippines beauty pageant.
The interview featured Cuaton’s aspirations, adventure, and achievements. The program emcees, Ayen Llamada and Raphael Tobias asked the MUPH delegate questions which she answered with wisdom and grace. In one of the questions, Ms. Cuaton looked back to her humble beginnings while sharing different realizations that came along the way. She revealed formerly being a shy girl who didn’t believe in herself, not until her adviser, Mr. Randy Nilles opened an opportunity for her as the Maria Clara of the Order of the Knights of Rizal. The experience and encouragement she received inspired her to be confident and to believe in herself.
Moreover, she discussed grasping self-awareness, appreciating one’s strengths, and developing a healthy mindset as she shared more of her story. Aside from loving oneself, she also gave importance to giving love to others. Ms. Cuaton described herself as someone who always helps, even in little ways. She has always supported her fellow delegates and contributed to organizations and charities that she wishes to help more using her platform.
“I realized that I can be whoever I want to be; it’s just a matter of believing that,” said Ms. Cuaton.
The School Principal Alexander S. Acosta expressed his congratulations for all of the success of the alumna, while the Vice Principal of the Office of Student Affairs, Mrs. Melissa R. Montayre thanked The Link, the participants, and everyone who made the live interview a success.
Not only did the interview allow the PSDians to know more about Ms. Janela Cuaton, but also inspired them to work hard in making their dreams come true.
“God’s greatest gift to us… more talent and ability that we’ll ever hopefully use in this lifetime. Our gift to God (then) is to develop and use them as much as (he gave) that ability in this lifetime. So make sure that you do your best, you dwell into who you are, and believe that you are not limited.” – Janela Cuaton, on the question “What is your motto in life?”
The interview, which was graced by the different vice principals, faculty, staff, and students, encouraged to seek support for the alumna in her quest for the title. The live interview can still be viewed on The Link’s official Facebook page. Ms. Cuaton’s destiny in her MUPH journey shall be determined on Miss Universe Philippines’ coronation night, September 30.