Women of Allure 2018 (Conclusion): Jachin Manere
Fashion forward
MANILA, Philippines — Model Jachin Manere’s mind and soul speak of her appreciation for the beauty of life. In her eyes, one can see this 21-year-old’s determination to take steady strides on the road ahead. This perspective allows for her life’s purpose to unfold.
Jachin was 18 years old when she first went to a PMAP (Professional Models Association of the Philippines) go-see upon the suggestion of her best friend and PMAP model Lou Yanong. Though without prior experience in modeling, Jachin aced the go-see.
“It was a terrifying experience to be in front of legendary board members of PMAP. I was nervous and scared that I arrived at the go-see with messy hair! One of the board members said, after I was accepted, that I need to at least brush my hair,” Jachin laughs. “But ‘Mama A’ (Angel Agustin, then PMAP president), who was also in the panel, told me ‘That’s your style, that’s your look. Do not change.’ I was overwhelmed and I could not believe I got in because growing up, I had a hard time accepting myself.”
Jachin admits she struggled with low self-esteem. “I was teased a lot in grade school and high school because of my physical appearance — I have dark skin and thick eyebrows, I was skinny and I was always taller than the boys. It affected me so much that it came to a point that I became very shy and was closed off to everyone,” she shares.
“But one day, I realized that I was already losing the fun-loving and cheerful me. So, I let go of all the emotions from that experience and stayed true to who I really am. I also got through it with the help of my family and close friends. I learned that you have to be at your rock bottom before you are able to truly appreciate what happiness is. It will make you stronger,” she says.
The 5’8”-stunner’s commanding presence on the runway and beaming confidence seen in her numerous fashion editorials serve as Jachin’s constant reminders that it was in modeling where she found her voice, her passion and eventually, herself.
“I realized that I am capable of doing things I didn’t think I could do. Modeling empowers me to work harder.”
There is also harmony in Jachin’s heart brought by her fascination with music and its many components like songwriting, producing, sound engineering and folly sound effects. The lure of music was so strong that she took Music Business Management at the Meridian International College in Taguig, where she is able to tap her creativity.
As a graduating student, Jachin is determined to sprint through the last leg of college. Though modeling has presented itself as a lucrative career — which allowed her to pay for her own tuition and financially help her family — she says finishing her studies is also one of her top priorities for now.
“Modeling has taught me a lot and I know I have a lot more to gain in this profession. While here, I want to be a better model and a better person,” she shares.
With unshakable resolve and a good amount of passion cradled in her heart, Jachin is ready to walk on the runway of life — ready to conquer the world.
