What brings you to life? *Part 6* The Sassy Stylist

The final feature of my Passion Q&A series from my blog post titled What brings you to life?

RANZA BAY

Marketing & Events Specialist / Stylist

It's not every day you immediately hit it off with someone but it was "love at first sight" when we first met in 2012. Though we haven't known each other for that long, I know I've found a friend for life. From our late night antics to our chill stay-at-home weekends, it's never a dull moment with this one. Apart from my mother, she's the one that taught me proper domestic etiquette. I shall not serve chips in the bag and dip in the jar it came in for fear that Mama Ranza will disapprove. She is a smart, focused, compassionate, and brilliant woman. Need some styling and DIY tips? Visit Ranza's blog at www.thebaystyles.com and check her out on Facebook and Instagram.

What brings you to life?
I come alive when I create--I am an Event Marketer by profession which means conceiving new ideas, breaking them down into intricate plans, and executing them with impeccable precision are all part of the job (that I love). I've also recently taken the plunge and started a Lifestyle Blog <thebaystyles.com>, that features unique lifestyle content. The blog provides a platform for me to aid, engage, and inspire others by sharing quick tips, DIYs, recipes, and stories that help shape one's personal Lifestyle Design. This gives me an opportunity to get my hands dirty and take on exciting projects during my free time.

What do you love most about it?
I'd like to believe that I'm a balanced left-right brain kinda gal, but when I do tap into my creative side, I'm taken to a place where I'm able to tune out the rest of the world and focus on one singular task. I guess you could call it my "outlet". But what I really love most about what I do is the sense of fulfillment I get after the job is done. You know, that moment when you step back, take a second to admire what you've created from scratch, and can't help but give yourself a fist bump or do a little victory dance.

Canapes for a friend's birthday

Tea time bites

Doodling!

How long have you been in events and styling and how did you get into it?
Since I can remember! I've always been drawn to the arts and, thanks to my parents, I took up every class you could imagine (no sitting in front of the TV for this kiddo). My mom has always been a very strong influence on me--I grew up watching her design (and re-design) our home, cook meals without taking a peek at a recipe book, and even pick up an old piece of driftwood and manage to transform it into the most striking table centrepiece. That said, I've continued to hone my skills in the arts and dabble in new things now and then. 

Making portobello and haloumi burgers

A garden in a jar

Experimenting with new art techniques

What advice would you give someone starting out in the same field?
I've had people tell me that they can't do what I do but I've proven them wrong. I've instilled the art of organisation to the messiest of the lot, taught folks that used to burn toast how to cook a meal that would be served at any top restaurant, and given a lesson or two in home decor (you know who you are). Everyone has a creative side! So, sit and listen to your inner Martha Stewart and just do it! At the end of the day it boils down to this--you've got to LOVE IT because there's no faking it when it comes to Events Marketing (or even Lifestyle Blogging). 

Putting organisational skills to work

Fondue night at home

How do you keep your passion alive?
My passion is everything I do, big or small, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. So there's no real risk of it "dying" but there are times when I need to shake things up a little by trying out new techniques, keeping myself updated on the latest trends, and even sign up for an odd class or two. This keeps it interesting, fresh, and fun. Everyone still has room to pick up a new skill or two, right? 

Batik painting class in Bali

At this specific point in time, where would you want to be and with whom?
That's a tough question. If I could be in two or more places at once I would, especially since my family and most of my closest friends are spread across the globe. But right now, at this very specific moment, I'm happy where I am. (Ask me again tomorrow, I may change my mind when I wake up). 

On holiday in Switzerland

*All photos provided by Ranza Bay.

What Brings You to Life? *Part 5* The Jet-Setting Foodie

Here's the next feature of my Passion Q&A series from my blog post titled What brings you to life?

CHERYL TIU

International Journalist & Multi Media Personality

We've known each other half our lives and I'm still in awe of this woman. A jet-setter, foodie, and writer... I envy her life of travel and great food! She's made a name for herself and in every deserving right. Despite her accomplishments from such a young age, she has commendably stayed so humble, kind, and kept her feet on the ground. Check out where Cheryl is heading off to next and which restaurants to hit up on www.cheryltiu.com, Instagram, and Facebook.

What brings you to life?
Right now my website <cheryltiu.com>. I've been juggling several positions for years now and have recently taken on an "at large" position at the publishing house I work for to allow me the time to focus on other projects, the closest one to my heart being my blog/website. It's a space where I chronicle the fun things I do and discover--in between my deadlines! But I didn't want it to be just that; I also wanted it to be a platform to serve a bigger purpose. So last month, I put up an events platform under it called Cross Cultures by Cheryl Tiu. It was founded on the premise that food is one of the most accessible ways of exchanging cultures. Through the sharing of culinary experiences and talents between chefs and cooks, between countries and continents, I hope to dispel misconceptions and remove boundaries, and contribute in building a more global community.

Our first dinner event is happening this September 18, 2015. I visited Ethiopia for the first time last June and fell in love with the country and its people. Unfortunately though, a lot of people still think that it's a poor country and plagued by famine. On the contrary, it has one of the fastest growing economies today, and not only is there food, but the cuisine is so delicious--I refused to and did not eat anything other than injera (made from an organic, gluten-free super grain endemic to Ethiopia called 'teff') and wot (sauces and stews that can range from chickpeas, beef, chicken, lamb, etc.) every single day I was there!--and not at all available here in the Philippines! So for one night only, we are collaborating with Eat Ethio, an Ethiopian food movement that provides a modern insight into the food, coffee, designs, music, and culture of Ethiopia--to create a special, memorable experience for Filipinos.

These children in Lalibela, Ethiopia won my heart!  Here we are in front of the tukul, or a traditional stone hut made from stone and mud protected by UNESCO, outside the rock-hewn churches

What do you love most about it?
I feel honoured that I am able to go out and share what I enjoy to readers. I like that I also get to travel, eat, and meet a lot of different people, and that no day is ever the same. It's a job where I get to learn so much by experience, and hopefully engage my readers in the same way.

Such an honour to have been asked by the legendary Andoni Aduriz of Mugaritz, 6th best restaurant in the world, to sign the Wallpaper City Guide for Manila book for him at Madrid Fusion in Spain

With the legendary Thomas Keller at the World's 50 Best Restaurant Awards at the Guildhall in London along with Asia's 50 Best chairwomen for Southeast Asia Evelyn Chen and Susan Jung

At the first Dom Perignon event in the Philippines held at the National Museum with Ingrid Go, Emil Yap, and Jin Perez

How long have you been in the business and how did you get into it?
I've been in the magazine publishing industry since 2006 as an editor, and later on a publisher, and started writing for a national newspaper when I was still in high school in 2001. I would do all my homework during recess and lunch breaks, and after school, I would go to the newspaper office or what they assigned me to cover or work on my articles.

Being interviewed by CNN Philippines at our Lifestyle Asia Home & Away 3 Book Launch at Crystal Lounge, Crown Towers, City of Dreams

After college, One Mega Group asked me if I was interested in working there. I started out as assistant editor for (the now defunct) Girlfriend magazine, and then simultaneously became editor in chief of (the now defunct) Winx Magazine. Then our president and CEO transferred me to Lifestyle Asia where I did time as assistant editor then associate editor then managing editor then deputy editor and publisher--and now, editor at large. There are no shortcuts, you really have to start from the bottom and work your way up otherwise you won't completely learn and understand how things are done. Nobody wants to be that figurehead on top that has an impressive title but doesn't really know what he/she is doing.

Signing our Wallpaper City Guide Manila books for Senator Sonny Angara with my collaborator Kissa Castaneda-McDermott

What advice would you give to someone starting out in the same field?
What you really need in the field of journalism/publishing/media is experience. People often think that editors and writers are just always in front of a computer and they're always writing but that's not accurate. It is only half the job. The truth is that we are out all the time--we have to, otherwise what are we going to write about? As early as now my advice is to... go out of your comfort zone. Eat. Meet people. Travel. Live. Being a journalist/writer doesn't pay much--no one I know is in it for the money--but it's one of the most fulfilling jobs for me personally, as you are enriched with experiences.

Faced my fears and took the co-pilot seat on a tiny 12-seater bush plane in Botswana

In Luang Prabang for Thai Airways' new direct flight to the city from Bangkok

How do you keep your passion alive?
I like exploring and trying different things. I love traveling and that always fuels me. I travel a lot for work but I never see it as work because the experiences are always so priceless and enriching. I also like being around and engaging with inspiring, positive people. Stay away from the negatrons; they will just bring you down.

Safari in Tanzania with wildebeests behind Christine Dayrit and I

At this specific point in time, where would you want to be and with whom?
I used to always live in the past and the future, and one of my resolutions is to live in the present. So I am happy and grateful for where I am today, and am trusting the timing of my life.

On the Northern Belle Orient Express Train from Edinburgh to London for Diageo World Class

*All photos provided by Cheryl Tiu.

What brings you to life? *Part 4* The Chef

The next part of my Passion Q&A series of my post titled What brings you to life?

STEPHANIE BRIMO

Owner & Chef of JiPan Cafe & Bakery

I can't even remember when we first met but it was some time in elementary school and it's been a roar of laughs since then. Despite moving to Canada in high school, we still kept in touch and even met up in Toronto while I was still living in Boston. We're now both back in Manila and busy with our work, which means we hardly get to see each other, but when we do, it's like there's been no space or time between us. She's got drive and spunk and is just a joy to be around, not to mention she kicks ass in the kitchen! Check out her latest baby JiPan with branches across the metro and see the mouth-watering treats on Facebook and Instagram.

What brings you to life?

Opening new JiPan branches.

Steph with her parents at the opening of JiPan Estancia Mall

What do you love most about it?

I love seeing the effort my team and I've put in taking effect. Whether it's increased sales, creating new products that our customers like, or opening new branches, it's all very fulfilling and exciting.

JiPan's pastries
Credit: JiPan Facebook

JiPan's Pork Pirikara Rice Bowl
Credit: JiPan Facebook

How long have you been in the business and how did you get into it?

I've always been in the F&B industry - starting in school then later when I started working. When I moved home [to the Philippines from Canada], we bought a small but successful bakery & cafe. I've been working at JiPan (now operated and run by Jess Fine Foods Inc.) for the past four years. I started with re-branding and then renovating the older branches we acquired. Since then, I've opened one more outlet and about to open another one this year.

With her fellow students at pastry school in Paris

What advice would you give to someone starting out in the same field?

Think really hard about it, especially if you've never been in the industry. It's a lot harder than it looks! Rely on people you trust and be selective on who you believe. Keep your family and friends close, they'll always tell you the truth! Work hard. Owning your own business is a 24/7 job. You may not physically be at work, but your brain will constantly be there.

Her No. 1 fans - Steph's family

How do you keep your passion alive?

It's tough keeping it alive all the time. There are occasional lulls when I'm less motivated for a couple of days and I somewhat lose the drive, but you really have to just shake it off. If the task I'm doing is boring me at the time, I switch and do something more interesting. Case in point, a couple days ago I was stuck in front of my computer working on financial statements and sales and budget forecasting. After a few days of this, I lost steam and just got disinterested so I got up and went into our baking area and started R&D on new pastries. Since baking and cooking are my first loves, stepping back into the kitchen - even just for a short while - reminded me of why I was doing all the "boring" paperwork so that I could keep on creating. It put the mundane things in perspective and gave me more energy to carry on.

At this specific point in time, where would you want to be and with whom?

I'm very happy where I am and with the people I'm with. I wouldn't change a thing! 

JiPan has branches in the following locations:
Estancia Mall, Capitol Commons, Pasig City (02) 532-1188
SM Megamall Bldg. A, Mandaluyong City (02) 633-5990
Addition Hills, Mandaluyong City (02) 718-3891
Glorietta 4, Makati City (02) 728-9442 

*All photos provided by Stephanie Brimo.

What Brings You To Life? *Part 3* The Entertainer

Part 3 of my Passion Q&A series from my blog post What brings you to life?

NIKKI MULLER

International TV Presenter & Host

An intelligent and talented beauty who I'm proud to call my friend and sister. We've had our ups and downs but no matter what, we've stuck it out and she's never failed to be my unending supporter. I admire her willpower, unwavering confidence, and for taking the reins of her life to follow her dreams. See what Nikki is up to on Facebook and Instagram.

What brings you to life?
I love Sheryl Sandberg's burning question from her book "Lean In": what would you do if you were not afraid? When you answer that honestly, you've identified your passion. For me, I found it out early in life. I thrive on LIVE TELEVISION. I didn't even think about a career in TV until I was interviewed outside my high school gates with some friends, by MTV Asia. When I took the microphone from the producer and interviewed my friends instead, he saw that perhaps there was a reporter in me somewhere. The thrill of being on air, of thinking on your feet, of managing several cues and external factors, and most importantly, meeting new people from all walks of life and different fields - that's what I enjoy the most. I am a people-person and I am forever curious. TV has given me the flexibility to meet tremendous individuals. Every day is new. I am never bored!

What do you love most about being a TV presenter & host?
I love that I'm in a field where I am always learning. I believe you must challenge yourself everyday and take on projects that scare you. Living outside of your comfort zone is when you learn the most about yourself. You are often pleasantly surprised by what you can do when under pressure.

The Bicycle Diaries (Channel News Asia)

What goes on behind the cameras at Fox

How long have you been a TV presenter & host and how did you get into it?
My first job with MTV was when I was 15 years old. I had a short spell at the United Nations Headquarter in New York but in total I've worked in television for 11 years. It's not just a job for me. I'm one of those people who associates who I am with what I do for a living. I have tried the desk job but it's not for me. I need to go out into the world because that's my classroom!

Nikki with her co-hosts during her time on Disney Channel's Studio D

What advice would you give someone who is starting out or thinking about getting into TV?
I started young but I believe if you enter this industry for the right reasons, then it's never too late. If your goal is to be a star, to be recognised, to be famous, then that's not a passion. You need to be curious. You must love telling stories. And you must remember it is NEVER about you. You are the medium but you are not the subject. You must make your path and go out of your way to meet influencers in the industry. Seek out people you admire and find ways to intern in a newsroom or set. You learn by doing. But most importantly, find a subject you care about very much and discover your voice and style.
 

With Aussie F1 race driver for Red Bull Daniel Ricciardo

How do you keep your passion for TV alive? Do you have any dull moments? If so, how do you get back on track again?
Television is unpredictable and involves long hours. There are times when I've burned out. I think it's important to take breaks on my own. I often travel by myself to recharge and focus. I am still grappling with work/life balance. I am doing my best to spend more time with friends because for a long while I was working for months on end without a social life. Even if I enjoy my work, I must make time for balance.

At this point in time, where in the world would you want to be and with whom?
At this very moment I want to be hiking in Switzerland. I go back often but never long enough to get to know my country well enough. And I would go alone. I am constantly surrounded by many people so traveling by myself is a luxury. I'm half Swiss but haven't lived in Switzerland longer than a year. I find it incredibly important to connect with my cultural heritage. I've spent a lot of time in the Philippines but not in Switzerland. It's also a way to feel closer to my grandmother who was my best friend. If there was someone I'd want to come along with me, it would be her. She passed away last year but she's always with me now, so perhaps I have everything I need after all.

Behind-the-scenes at a shoot I did with Nikki for Yahoo!

More BTS shots with our hilarious director Ian Kenny

*All photos provided by Nikki Muller.

What brings you to life? *Part 2* The Thespian

The second of my passion-focused Q&A series from my blog post titled What brings you to life?

KRISSY JESUDASON 
Founder & Artistic Director of Phenix Arts 

My best friend since 9th grade, we know each other like the backs of our hands. We've been in love with Channing Tatum since "She's the Man" and comforted each other through bad break ups. We laugh hysterically at things no one else understands and pretty much even have our own language. She is a strong-willed, tough, and beautiful woman through and through. The blood, sweat, and tears that she's shed for her craft are truly astounding. Read more about Krissy and her upcoming projects on www.phenixarts.com and Facebook. 

What brings you to life? 

I think the easy answer here would be theatre and Shakespeare, but actually I think it’s actually more complicated than that because other things bring me to life too. For example, my other jobs in Food & Beverage, a good book, and kite surfing. I think what really brings me to life is self discovery and making connections with other human beings, and theatre and Shakespeare are how I pursue it. 

What do you love most about theatre/Shakespeare? 
Well the reason I love theatre, acting, and Shakespeare is because it’s the easiest way I make a connection with others. Through the stories I get to tell, dealing with other actors very intimately, and also knowing that the audience that is watching me is also trying to connect with the same story.

How long have you been into theatre/Shakespeare and how did you get into it?
Honestly, all my life. I think it took me a while to realize it though. When I did, I ran from it, denied it, and quit. But in the end I just kept coming back. 

What advice would you give someone who is starting out or thinking of getting into theatre? 
DON’T DO IT. I’m kind of kidding and kind of not. Having a career in theatre is HARD. You have to realise that as you grow up everyone else will be hitting certain milestones in their lives except you. While others are buying cars, houses, and raising children, you will probably still be looking for the next paycheck. You won’t be able to afford certain things like a balanced diet, a membership to the gym, and maybe even rent. So if you can do anything else…DO THAT INSTEAD.

If that little schpeel doesn’t deter you (as it didn’t me when I first heard it right after theatre school), my advice is to grow a thick skin. Be resourceful and think of yourself as an entrepreneur who is running a start-up. You are your business. What is your product? What is its value to others? How do you monetise it? What's your marketing strategy? Think outside the box and create your own mark. Learn a side craft and marketable skill to do on the side so you’re not waiting by the phone for your agent to call. Get out there and get busy. CREATE. 

How do you keep your passion for theatre/Shakespeare alive? Do you have any dull moments? If so, how do you get back on track and find it again? 
I surround myself with like-minded people. People from the theatre and acting as well as other industries, who are as ambitious and driven as I want to be. I run my own theatre company and most of the time it’s an uphill battle. A lot of the times I question why I’m doing this - Why theatre? Why acting? Why Shakespeare? Can’t I just give up? And then I remember that I’ve given up before, I’ve failed and quit before. And when I came back to theatre I found that my previous experiences and failures are now serving me very well because of what I’ve learned from them. Every failure only brings me knowledge, wisdom, and practical experience. The more experience I have the more qualified I am, regardless of my perception of failure or success. So I just keep climbing that mountain and if I succeed, great. If I fail, that’s good too because it means that I get to learn and apply it next time.

At this specific point in time, where in the world would you want to be and with whom? 
That’s a hard question because I know that to fantasize like that takes me away from where I am right now. For example, 5 years ago I would fantasize that I was a working actor doing plays, producing and teaching, and maybe even have a TV show. Low and behold, 5 years later I’m doing exactly that, which is great, but my life is not any easier than it was then. I’m just handling it better.

Sometimes I fantasize that I’m rehearsing Macbeth with the Royal Shakespeare Company but then I’ll think, "wait, how would that make me any happier than I am now?" I mean, yes it’s a wonderful opportunity and I would kill for it but…what I’m doing right now is pretty awesome too and I don’t want to miss out on that. If I start to fantasize about being somewhere else with someone else then it takes me away from everything I can accomplish right here right now. 

Watch Krissy on stage with fellow actor Zachary Ibrahim at Phenix Arts' first production BASH: Latterday Plays by Neil Labute showing 20-22 Aug 2015 at Orchard Central in Singapore. Buy your tickets now from TicketMash.

*All photos provided by Krissy Jesudason.