Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I believe every child deserves someone who refuses to give up on them. I remember the weight of feeling invisible in a classroom, and I promised myself I’d be the one to look a struggling student in the eye and say, "I see you, and you matter." Watching a child’s self-doubt melt into a smile is the greatest privilege of my life. I don't just teach subjects; I nurture souls, build confidence, and help children believe they can change the world.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

In Philippines, a student walked miles through rain just to show me he could write his name. He had nothing but a crumpled paper and a dream. That moment defined me. Now, as a J1 SPED teacher in the US, I bridge those two worlds. Whether in a rural province or an American classroom, the "aha!" moment is the same. I crossed oceans to be the voice for those often left behind, proving that every child—regardless of their ability or poverty—is a masterpiece in the making.

What would you do with the $25,000?

This $25,000 would be a bridge of hope. In the US, I’d invest in assistive tech and literacy tools to help my High School SLD students finally see themselves as "college-ready" instead of "behind." But my heart also beats for Antique. I’d send a portion back to my old school to provide basic supplies for children who still walk miles in the rain to learn. From the Philippines to America, I want to prove to every student that their learning disability or poverty isn't their destiny.