The Filipino Channel didn't just reach my eyes and ears; it reached deep into my heart. Connecting with many lives, I was struck by the unwavering happiness of residents despite challenging living conditions, igniting a fire within—a desire to connect with my Filipino heritage and contribute to those in need. I struggled to define my identity and find Filipino Americans in my community. With my mother suffering from harsh health conditions, it was hard to discover this, working extra hours at a drive-thru to support her. I performed the Tinikling dance at community events to cheer myself, igniting my fiery passion to share the boundless joy the Filipino community radiates. I embarked on a journey, founding the North Gwinnett High School Filipino American Student Association. Within the association, I worked tirelessly to introduce my peers to Filipino cultural richness. I aimed to make it enticing and relevant through events like the Boodle Fight and history discussion socials. As my mother’s condition worsened, I embodied the Philippines in her name, inspired to help others. A crowning achievement was organizing donation drives to support orphans in Cebu through Balikbayan boxes, profoundly impacting our community. Transitioning to college, I became the freshman representative of the Georgia Tech Filipino Student Association. Crafting welcoming events that fostered joy and giving to the community helped me realize Filipino pride. Being part of the Filipino community provided solace during challenging times and illuminated our immense potential for good as Filipino Americans. It became clear that our identity goes beyond mere ethnicity—it's a conduit for spreading positivity and fostering family that unites people in the face of adversity. Now, I dedicate to being a voice for the Philippines, preserving our history, and transforming my aspirations into reality by harnessing my skills to amplify the unity and progress my Fil-Am identity embodies. As a computer engineer, I work on a cancer detection system to aid in medical imaging analysis and research computer systems with dreams of creating affordable low-cost devices granting greater access to education and healthcare globally. I meet with Filipino Atlanta organizations to expose Fil-Am pride and representation. With every endeavor, I aim to honor my mother's resilience and contribute to the betterment of my community, both at home and abroad. Just as I once watched life unfold through a screen, I am determined to step beyond that screen and actively shape the Fil-Am future I envision.