Success doesn’t happen overnight; we can only wish it could. However, there is no such thing as an instant reward, a shortcut, or an elevator to the top.
Perhaps, life is fair in requiring everyone to work hard for something they want, even if it takes years to attain it. The real challenge is: are you willing to take ‘that’ risk and shrug off all your fears?
Let us take a look at how our communication klasmeyts stepped out of their comfort zones and braved the stage of “Tawag ng Tanghalan” on “It’s Showtime!”
April Valde
How can one not sing “Nasa Iyo Na Ang Lahat” by Daniel Padilla whenever they see April?
The 20-year-old “Raketera Kolehiyala” from Bulacan is a complete package. From hosting events to baking pastries, Valde juggles her time from one work to another to sustain her tuition. A true epitome of beauty and talent, destined to capture the hearts of many.
However, we suggest not to get fooled by her delicate appearance, for her strong vocals surely know how to bite.
Valde sang “Istorya” by The Juans but failed to snatch the TNT’s Daily Winner title last June 03, 2022, against John Vince Deiparine. The captivating singer covers different songs on her youtube channel and stars in TV commercials for established brands like RiteMed and Cinema One.
Tawag ng Tanghalan was also not the first TV singing program she auditioned for. At age 15, April appeared on GMA’s Music Hero: The Vocal Battle and auditioned for ABS-CBN’s The Voice Teens. Valde started her career in the industry at nine and did numerous gigs, such as Theater and modeling.
But, it was not that easy for the young star. Years of persuasion and encouragement were needed for her to finally own that stage. As a shy kid, she was uncomfortable with being the center of attention, holding her back from enjoying what she truly loves.
“No’ng bata ako, pag sa school, matawag lang ‘yung pangalan ko, naiiyak na ako. Kinakabahan ako agad kasi baka may itanong sa’kin na ‘di ko masagot,” April admitted.
“When I was a child, just hearing my name being called in school puts me on the verge of tears. I was nervous because I felt like they’re going to ask me questions I couldn't answer,”
Despite her experiences, the “Raketera Kolehiyala” also revealed that she still undergoes stage fright. It is a constant feeling she can’t ignore whenever she faces the crowd but handles it by believing that people won’t remember her as time passes.
“Enjoy mo lang sarili mo. Hindi ka naman na nila maalala o ‘yung ginawa mo, so live in the moment na lang,” she added.
She is also a kind and down-to-earth person who doesn't forget to thank God for all her blessings. A shy communication student too, who appreciates the beauty of production.
April Valde’s key to confidence is exploring the scariest things. Just like the famous saying goes, “Don’t be afraid to fail, be afraid not to try.”
Jef Fresco
If you haven’t heard of Jef Fresco’s captivating voice, you are missing out BIG time.
He is known as the “Sport-inig Charmer” on “It’s Showtime!”. Jef doesn’t only play numerous sports, such as basketball and volleyball, but he is even good at them. In fact, he also represented Davao City at a division level in a soccer tournament.
The 22-year-old singer from Bicutan serenaded the national audience last May 11 with his kilig version of Habang Buhay by Zack Tabudlo, making everyone blush, including the judges.
Fresco earned the title of TNT’s Daily Winner but fell short against the former defending champion, Michelyn Edrina. Nevertheless, nothing can change the fact that the rising star is born to dominate the entertainment world.
In an interview with Jef, he gladly shared his humble beginning. At the age of three, his parents saw his potential in singing by watching him perform the songs of the legendary pop group Bee Gees. He claimed that his parents played a huge role in developing his love for music.
“Guided talaga ako ng parents ko… Pag sa tingin nila parang ‘di okay ‘yung ginawa ko sa kantang ‘yun, i-guide nila ako… Parang sila talaga ‘yung voice coaches ko no’n,” Fresco said.
Jef also joined GMA’s talent show, The Protege, when he was 11. Fortunately, he was one of the three kids selected to represent Davao City. He also auditioned for Pilipinas Got talent and ABS-CBN’s Bidang Pogi Davao, where he became a grand finalist.
Although the rising star is already familiar with facing huge crowds, Jef admitted that he still feels nervous from time to time. The fear of forgetting the lyrics and failing continues to hunt him in every performance he delivers. Pleasing everyone is indeed an impossible task.
With his life motto, “Work smart, play hard,” the singer overcomes his doubts by taking himself out of the moment. Aside from his prince-like appearance, he also has a chill vibe around him, easily hooking a lot of fans.
Contrary to his image on the screen, Jef is an ordinary student like us who gets shy when speaking inside the classroom. He said he also had a fair share of “timid moments” interacting with his klasmeyts.
When asked how to be confident in front of the camera, Jef advised people to embrace themselves and just be comfortable. Society always has something to say, so better live life how you want it to be.
The charming singer is now in his 4th year, waiting for his graduation.
It’s up to you whether to shrug it off and go for it or lay in bed and sleep. You have the right to live your life as you want it to be. Remember, no one should pressure you to do something against your will.
However, remember that there is also no harm in trying. Living with no regrets is always better than living with ‘what ifs.’
To better connect with April, follow her on her Youtube and Facebook page, April Valde. While with Jef, get the latest updates on his Instagram: @thatboyjef, Youtube Channel, JEF Music, and Facebook Page, Jef Fresco.
So, tell us. What have you learned from this? Share your thoughts with us!
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