Global game changers

Words John Legaspi | Photography Mark Mendez | Styling Joel Sebastian | Creative Director and Video Keyr Castro | Makeup & Hair Bong Bong Buan

‘Being uniquely yourself—because there’s only one of you out there. I just try to be myself and have fun.’

CHELSEA: ‘It’s about being confident, showing who you really are, and having fun. It’s not just about fashion. It’s about making an impact.’

‘It’s the totality of what you can do for yourself and others. Just being here and having a voice is already a global impact.’

Making it big on the international stage requires grit, talent, perseverance, and mental fortitude. Having the dream is not enough—one must have the drive to overcome challenges and turn a goal into reality.

For the longest time, achieving global recognition seemed almost impossible for Filipinos. But today, it’s hard to talk about Asian excellence without mentioning Filipino talent. Across diverse fields, notable Filipinos have proudly represented the country with their skill, creativity, and resilience. Whether in entertainment, sports, fashion, or technology, these individuals are breaking barriers and reshaping global perceptions. Filipinos are no longer just participating—they are leading.

Among today’s rising Filipino talents are Cole Micek and Chelsea Manalo—modern trailblazers shifting narratives and empowering others through authenticity.

Resilience in motion
Born in Los Angeles, California, Cole Micek has centered his life around his passion for basketball. But his talents extend far beyond the court. He has graced runways as a model and ventured into acting—with the support of his mentor, actor Jamie Foxx.

As a Filipino-American juggling multiple careers, Cole credits his success to unwavering discipline and drive. “It’s truly a dream come true,” he shares. Balancing three demanding fields isn’t easy, but for Cole, passion is the fuel. “This is what I love to do. I always remind myself of that.”

His Filipino heritage is central to his identity. “It means the world to me. I try to represent myself and my culture while doing all the things I love.” Whether on the court or in front of the camera, Cole carries his roots with pride—an influence that shapes both his creative output and personal mission.

When asked about personal power, Cole highlights confidence and individuality. “Being uniquely yourself—because there’s only one of you out there. I just try to be myself and have fun.” His style plays a critical role in this, serving as both armor and expression. “Style makes me feel confident. When you walk into a room looking sharp, you’re ready to rock.”

His biggest motivation? Family, friends, and his younger self. “I always try to make my inner child happy and proud,” he says. Through injuries and setbacks, one word defines his journey: Resilience. “I’ve been through a lot, but I’ve stayed persistent in the pursuit of my passions.”

To those embracing their individuality, Cole’s advice is clear, “Just be authentically yourself. You are one of one. Be confident in who you are.”

Quiet confidence, loud impact
Hailing from Meycauayan, Bulacan, Chelsea Manalo made history as the first Black Filipino woman to be crowned Miss Universe Philippines. Though she didn’t win the Miss Universe 2024 crown, she made an indelible mark as the first Miss Universe Asia, using the platform to amplify advocacies such as indigenous youth education.

Chelsea is redefining what it means to be confidently beautiful. For her, individuality is deeply tied to representation. “When you have that voice, it reflects how you can influence people—with kindness, confidence, and authenticity,” she says.

She proudly speaks of the strength embedded in her heritage. “Filipino people are faithful and powerful. That strength lives in me—not just in modeling or pageantry, but as a woman of influence.”

What fulfills her most is the power of connection. “Talking to models, leaders, women, and children—learning their stories and using them to empower others—that’s the most rewarding part.” Her personal power is what she calls silent confidence—the kind that listens deeply and leads gently but powerfully.

Her bold personal style mirrors this mindset. “It’s about being confident, showing who you really are, and having fun,” Chelsea shares. “It’s not just about fashion. It’s about making an impact.”

When it comes to global impact, Chelsea sees it as rooted in empathy and purpose. “It’s the totality of what you can do for yourself and others. Just being here and having a voice is already a global impact.”

Her message, like Cole’s, is empowering and simple, “Don’t be afraid to be who you are. If you’re confident in your own skin and having fun, keep doing that.”

A new generation of Filipino power
Cole Micek and Chelsea Manalo represent a powerful shift—where identity, purpose, and authenticity intersect. As proud Filipino voices on the global stage, they’re not just making an impact—they’re showing others how to do it with heart, courage, and undeniable individuality.

Their stories are reminders that true influence begins when we dare to be ourselves. And in doing so, we don’t just represent our culture—we redefine it.

Photography Mark Mendez | Styling Joel Sebastian | Creative Director and Video Keyr Castro | Makeup & Hair Bong Bong Buan