Pursuing a career in modeling and acting comes with its share of challenges, from balancing schoolwork to enduring long hours on set. Yet, the journey becomes worthwhile when passion fuels the dream. For Filipino-American Shaila Vanschoonhoven, born in South Korea, this passion was sparked at the age of 12. Inspired by beauty pageants and her admiration for Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, she embraced the world of entertainment. “Mahilig po akong manuod ng beauty pageants noon, kaya naisip ko ring subukan ang modeling at acting,” she shares.
Currently, Shaila juggles her education with her passion for acting, singing, dancing, and modeling. She actively participates in workshops to refine her skills and dreams of becoming a renowned actress someday. “Gusto ko po talagang makilala bilang isang sikat na artista,” she expresses with determination.
Despite her busy schedule, Shaila has already achieved notable milestones. She appeared in two educational short films shown in schools in her hometown, Bulacan. At seven years old, she had a role in Maalaala Mo Kaya (MMK) and more recently starred in an SM commercial. Reflecting on her journey, she says, “Masaya po ako kahit minsan napapagod, kasi naibibigay ko naman ang best ko.”
Shaila credits her talent manager, John Rey Malto, for guiding her and emphasizes the importance of hard work and resilience. “Sipag at tiyaga po ang kailangan para makamit ang ating mga pangarap,” she advises aspiring actors. She stays motivated with her personal motto: “Patuloy lang tayong maging positibo para sa ating pangarap, at maging masigasig din.”
