By Tanya Onofre
The world often asks and even demands women to be everything at once. Strong yet soft, ambitious yet humble, independent yet accommodating. It is a life of dichotomy where she should embody both ends.
It is impossible and unrealistic, but the true essence of being a “girlboss” has evolved beyond just breaking walls made out of stone.
At Silliman University (SU), the women redefine what it means to lead, hustle, and thrive, not just for themselves but for others. This Women’s Month, we shine the spotlight on SU’s very own gorgeous powerhouses who burn resilience, ambition, and heart.
Business, Beauty, and Brains
Fiona Arabelli Cunanan from the College of Computer Science is a beauty and a killer in the combination of education and entrepreneurship. Balancing her studies and two businesses—Lovelace, a custom jewelry bar, and Opulens, a vintage photo booth— is proof that passion and practicality can coexist through a woman.
“Being a girlboss isn’t just about making money or achieving success,” she says. “It’s about owning who you are, making choices that align with your values, and lifting others up along the way.”
Fiona’s journey goes beyond entrepreneurship and education. She emphasizes creating meaning and purpose through every piece of jewelry crafted for her friends and customers and every moment captured in each bead.
Leadership and Credentials Never Looked this Good
Nevina Cardente, who could potentially be the next president of the Philippines, knows that leadership isn’t just about taking charge—it’s about making a difference.
She has mastered the art of balance even Thanos wouldn’t be able to achieve. With an impressive lineup of achievements—including being the president of the Luce Auditorium Corps of Ushers, assistant secretary of the College of Business Administration student council, and having an honors streak—she literally serves and excels in academics.
From student governance to civic engagements, Nevina knows that true strength lies in pushing and setting boundaries and empowering others along the way. Her mantra: “When you make a decision, choose the one that scares you, because that is where you will grow.”
Silliman’s Popstar Princess
For one particular girlboss, Aya Mikhaela Lyn Lubon—Physical Therapy student, creative director of the Weekly Sillimanian, freelance artist, and performer—success isn’t just measured in awards. It can also be felt in melodies and movements.
From opening for Lola Amour at Sillimusika 2024 to winning Best Interpreter in the Valentine Songwriting Competition, this multi-talented artist juggles her passion for performing while dancing through academics and leadership.
Despite her long list of achievements, she candidly admits to once shying away from them due to the culture of smart-shaming. Now, she fully embraces her growth.
“I’ve achieved far more and reached greater heights because of the people who push me forward,” she shares. Her journey is a testament to the power of finding one’s voice—literally and figuratively.
Girlboss 24/7
Ella Nazaria Vasquez is another girlboss. Aside from being the secretary of the Silliman University Physical Therapy Students Association, she is also an officer of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, a member of the Silliman University Camera Club, and a feature writer of the Portal Yearbook.
To her, a true girlboss isn’t just defined by her hustle but also by her ability to live a colorful life and set boundaries. “A busy schedule is not equivalent to a colorful life,” she emphasizes. Which is funny, considering we had this interview at 12 in the morning. I still have no idea how she made time for me—if that’s not peak girlboss energy, I don’t know what is.
“There’s admiration for women who chase dreams, but once the novelty fades, it can become laborious. Instead of adding meaningless tasks, choose something that adds true value to your life.”
Her mantra goes, “It doesn’t have to make sense now, but it all will someday.” Through her immense gratitude, faith, and perseverance, she believes in trusting the process and embracing growth even through discomfort, knowing that challenges today will make sense in the future.
How to Girlboss 101 from the Girlbosses of Silliman
So what’s the secret to being a true girlboss?
Romanticize the grind – Fiona explains that whether it’s designing jewelry over coffee or leading a team with passion, find joy in the journey.
“If anything, romanticize your life and laugh at the oopsies. It makes everything much more colorful,” says Aya, our resident artist and possible philosopher.
Set boundaries and prioritize self-care – Burnout isn’t a badge of honor. “Rest isn’t something to feel guilty about,” says Fiona. Nevina also states that a girlboss “knows her limits and respects them.”
“Powerful women set boundaries,” Ella asserts. “It’s incredibly empowering to know yourself well enough to say no when necessary. Self-respect is true power.”
Stay accountable, make it happen – Ella believes in taking action. “If you want something, stop waiting. Prioritize what needs to be done, and don’t wait for tomorrow when you can do it today.”
Responsibility is more than just fulfilling duties because it’s a mindset that fosters growth. And yes, Google Calendar is Aya’s secret weapon. Don’t tell her I told you guys.
No Woman is an Island –“A common misconception about being a girlboss is that you must have everything figured out and never need help,” shares Nevina. True strength lies in recognizing that success is not a solo journey. “It takes a village to reach our goals, and being a girlboss means understanding that we can’t do it all alone.”
Ella reinforces that girlbosses can’t and shouldn’t reach heights solely on their own. “Be grateful for the people who support you. Their patience, compassion, and love have been instrumental in my journey.”
Never stop learning – Growth comes from embracing change, setbacks, and new experiences. Even if life throws unexpected plot twists, keep evolving.
Beyond the Title: The Innate Power of Simply Being a Girl
Being a girlboss isn’t just about titles or accolades—it’s about acknowledging your worth, showing up for yourself, and making an impact in whatever way feels true to you. As Nevina puts it, “Being a woman is enough. And that, in itself, is powerful.”
So here’s to the women of Silliman. To those who inspire, lead, and redefine success on their own terms.
This Women’s Month, the flowers bloom, the sun shines bright as the world celebrates you! Not just for what you do, but for who you are. Babae ka, hindi babae lang.
