Annika Monterola
Beyond their love of cats and matcha, Annika Monterola is a headstrong individual with many ideas and an even stronger voice. As a HUMSS student from De La Salle University and Captain of the La Salle Debate League, they are dedicated to their passion for public speaking, even becoming a national-level octofinalist and receiving achievements in numerous debate competitions. Coming from their respective Science High Schools in the South, they are well-versed in topics relevant to society and aim to serve them in the future as a lawyer. From passionate yet strategic exchanges to heartfelt speeches, Annika, who you may also know as "Aki" or “Monty” is someone that you can depend on when it comes to engaging in meaningful discussions surrounding almost any topic. Their journey is a testament to the importance of taking chances and leading with love wherever you go.
Elora Picson
Elora Picson is a photographer, writer, and the founder of the Body Empowerment Photography brand, Fat Girl Glow. She has a decade of work in creatives, production, marketing, writing, sales, and photography.
She has been featured in online publications like Cosmopolitan Philippines, Female Network, and Preen.ph, for her advocacy for body positivity and acceptance. She was also featured in the book written by PLUMP.ph, “The Big Fat Book of Self-Love”. She has worked with the Body Acceptance advocacy group, Hi Smithy, and the American Chamber of Commerce Center for Training & Development on championing Camera Confidence in the Workplace.
Elora spearheads Camera Confidence Workshops around Metro Manila where she empowers participants to love and accept their bodies in the now and teaches them her most important lesson: Fat is not a bad word.
Kara Porciuncula
Despite the unpronounceable last name and charmingly corny sense of humor, Kara Porciuncula is a burst of wit and creativity in all that she does.
As an ADT student with two former creative teams and a place in the SC Creatives Committee under her name, there is an assured sense of imagination and goofy wordplays that bring her projects and speeches to life. Not to mention, her unofficial career in group presentations and active position in the La Salle Debate League have gotten her several wins, speaker awards, and titles--including national octofinalist--throughout both her junior and senior high school years.
In the wise words of her fellow debate friend, she is a "unique Kara-kter full of wonder," a "fire-Kara-cker," of fun facts and sometimes useless information, channeled into the values of service and compassion drilled into her by both past and current La Salle schools.
Kirby Araullo
Kirby Pábalan-Táyag Aráullo is a Filipino public historian and culture bearer based in California. As the co-founder of the Bulosan Center for Filipino Studies at the University of California, Davis, Kirby has authored multiple books exploring Asian American, Philippine, and Southeast Asian histories and cultures. His academic pursuits at Harvard and UC Davis, combined with his passion for indigenous Philippine scripts and a commitment to uplifting marginalized communities, deepen his dedication to making history accessible and engaging.
His popular YouTube channel captivates a worldwide audience, exploring how past events continue to influence our communities today. By highlighting the connections between historical events and present-day realities, he bridges the gap between the past and everyday life, making history relevant and accessible to everyone.
Kirby’s insights on our shared histories demonstrate how understanding can dismantle barriers and foster a more inclusive world, empowering the next generation with the wisdom from our ancestors
Reena Pineda
A born Tacloban and esteemed alumna of Ateneo de Manila University, Atty. Reena Pineda serves as Commissioner representing Luzon of the National Youth Commission, championing initiatives for the youth and marginalized communities. Notably, she conceptualized Resilience Redefined aiming to address a recurring issue here in the country.