Capturing the essence of a compelling drawing extends beyond the strokes of the artist's hand; it intricately weaves the interplay of trying different perspectives and the adjustment of the subject's environment. In a parallel narrative, similar to popular belief, life unfolds as an expansive drawing canvas. Shifting perspectives becomes indispensable, particularly amidst life's challenges. This sentiment echoes through the narratives of Ms. Ana Claire Hernandez, illustrating the profound connection between the art of portrayal and the art of living.
The tables have turned for Ana Claire Hernandez, a fifth-year architecture student at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Sta. Mesa, as her hard-earned skills and knowledge catapulted her to new heights of euphoria when she clinched the silver medal in Graphic Design Technology at the 2nd WorldSkills Asia - Abu Dhabi 2023 competition in the United Arab Emirates last November 27 to 29, 2023.[1] The competition drew participants from several member countries of the WorldSkills Asia organization, all united by the common objective of cultivating global standard skills and competencies. This collective effort aims to prepare individuals, particularly the Asian youth for the increasingly competitive and demanding realities of the world, fostering a brighter future for all involved. Despite the overwhelming pressure of the competition, the grit of a Filipino youth shines through. A remarkable achievement of Claire Hernandez—a narrative that her first-year self could scarcely have fathomed.
“Nung first year ako sa archi(tecture), feeling ko ang bobo bobo ko. As in very self-sabotaging ako because I have really low self-esteem,” Hernandez’s heartfelt confession in a recent interview. Like most students who struggle with their self-esteem, countless opportunities have slipped away from her hands because of self-doubt and the fear of failure. Little did she know, that one day, her very own hands that missed several opportunities back then, would receive plaques of recognition internationally.[2]
The beginning of her long journey in the WorldSkills competition started way back in January 2022. What initially seemed like an ordinary day for Claire took an unexpected turn when her Facebook algorithm serendipitously guided her toward a life-altering opportunity. She stumbled upon a Facebook advertisement for the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), about free graphic design training online which immediately piqued her curiosity and interest—an offer perfectly aligned with the demands of her architecture program. Intrigued and eager to enhance her skills, she secured her spot and enrolled herself in the online course. Despite a momentary hesitation, she felt an unmistakable sense of destiny.
“Year 2021, my closest friend died. That was the very first death na malapit sa akin talaga, it made me realize na anytime pwede rin pala akong mamatay. It kind of shifted my perspective na if there's something that I want to do right now, hindi ako maghihintay kapag ka graduate na lang or kapag mayaman na ako or when the situation is perfect,” Hernandez shared. Her friend's passing brought forth a profound realization, unraveling the irony of life for her. Despite thorough preparations for the uncertainties of tomorrow, she grasped the stark truth that the continuity of life rested beyond her control and the influence of other people.
Three months passed, and what began as a personal endeavor to benefit herself through the online course shifted when her trainer presented her with an opportunity. Due to her potential, she was tapped to participate in the district-level competition organized by TESDA. Initially inclined to decline the offer, she eventually found herself representing the Philippines at the WorldSkills ASEAN competition in Singapore a year later. This unexpected turn of events transpired after she secured victories in the district, regional, and national competitions. Her months of intensive training paid off, showing her tenacity and great discipline. “I have this thinking na andito na ako sa competition and I wanted to maximize my time given na semester break naman na. Again, It goes back to the death of my friend, ayaw kong mamatay ako na hindi ko binibigay ‘yung best ko. At least I can die knowing na binigay ko lahat.” she proudly said.
Ahead of the WorldSkills ASEAN 2023 competition, Hernandez embarked on a three-and-a-half-week training stint in South Korea, generously funded by the Korean government. Fueled by her unwavering passion, she secured her first silver medal in the Graphic Design Technology category. This distinction earned her qualification for the WorldSkills Asia competition, where she will proudly represent Southeast Asia.
Behind her success in the competition, were episodes of self-loathing and discouragement, all manifested in sleepless nights and the lingering soreness in her body. Recognizing the need for change, she started to shed the extra baggage that weighed her down. “I started to change my mindset after the Singapore competition. I started to let go of a lot of things. I dropped my Architectural Design 9 thesis and there were a lot of personal issues on my side na I also started letting go,” she revealed. Our instinct often propels us to seek control over situations, tirelessly exploring avenues and possibilities. Yet, the profound truth remains—some elements elude our grasp, standing larger and more formidable than our individual selves.
After crossing one of her life’s pivotal crossroads, a lighter and more comfortable atmosphere enveloped her. “It isn’t about winning the medal anymore, it’s all about what I can contribute to my family and the country. That’s why I will compete for one last time.” Everything fell seamlessly into place, she performed well and clinched another silver medal in the last WorldSkills Asia - Abu Dhabi 2023 competition.
“I think my advice is more like thinking that all of these is a scenius. You are on this path kasi it’s not because you're the most talented. You are there because you can contribute something. You can enhance ideas, you can bring conversation to the table that people aren't aware of. Everyone is important as well, hindi ikaw ang pinakamagaling because everyone has their greatness.” Claire Hernandez, former Feature Editor of The Freehand (2020-2021) and WorldSkills Asia 2023 Silver Medalist.