7 LESSONS I LEARNED IN ATTENDING THE WRITER'S DIGEST NOVEL WRITING CONFERENCE 2016

I find Writer's Digest as one of the best platforms for writers, educators, publishers and agents to connect as a community. It was a blessing that Facebook had tracked my posts about writing (even though it's creepy to think about this sometimes). that it consistently allowed ads about different writing conferences pop up on the side of my newsfeed. That's how I got hold of the information about the Writer's Digest Novel Writing Conference 2016.

Held in Bonaventure Hotel, Los Angeles, California, last October 28-30, I was opened to a whole new chapter in my writing career. I've met published people, famous writers of different genres and editors whose preferences were sought.

At first, I found it intimidating because I just blogged. But as soon as the participants I had small talk with in between sessions wished that they knew how to blog, I knew it was right for me to be there at that particular moment. They reassured me that as long as I write, I belong in the Writer's Digest Community and what an honour.

A lot of reading materials are now online because of the fast paced demanding lifestyle at the present. With the availability of the unlimited ether, the internet had paved a faster way to disseminate information globally; moreover, for a book to be published in a blog. This is something that I have been doing for 10 years so, I felt that the conference will teach me a lot as I decide on going for my own website. I aim to pay credit to Writer's Digest by sharing to you 7 of the most important lessons I learned that (1) exceeded my expectations as an aspiring journalist and (2) that I know no amount of money equals them.

1. TAKE A LEAP

Allow yourself to be exposed to the world. Don't be afraid to go out of the familiar because going out of our boundaries make us learn big time. Honestly, the title, Writer's Digest Novel Writing Conference made me doubt at first because I love novels, but I never wrote one. I always have an idea in mind but I never pursued it. But when I was in L.A., being surrounded by novelists, they inspired me immensely. Take this from me, if you aspire to be successful in something, surround yourself with successful people of that particular something. Chances are, you'd be propelled into reaching your dream in taking the first step. This is the ultimate secret of successful people, thinking with alike minds. They push each other in making it happen by giving you substantial experiences to learn from.

2. BE AN OPEN VESSEL

Here is John Peragine,
In this picture, he was featured in
the Writer's Digest with his article entitled,
6 Keys to Building a ghostwriting career.
Find him in FB as John P Writer

It was my first time to attend a writing conference, something that I've been longing to do. So I told myself in the bathroom of Bonaventure before I started to register, "I will be an open vessel..."

What am I claiming for myself in saying this?

This is to remind myself that it's ok to let my walls down to be able to make a little exchange of hi and hello. After all, what else would it take to initiate a conversation?

Then I stumbled into a laid back looking person. He was wearing shorts, very comfortable sandals, black shirt that says something about ghosts. He looked approachable and perky and I felt his energy that he is excited about the conference. I took my chance, "Let me guess, you write novels about ghosts." "Technically no, but I am a ghost writer. I am attending this conference for the book that I'm working on. I need inspiration." His name was John. "And you?", he continued. "I just blog.", I answered hesitantly. "Well, you write so omit the 'just' there. Have a great day! And get as much knowledge as you can from this conference. Who knows, you might get your first book published because of this.", he claimed it for me.

John Peragine is a published author of 12 books, has ghostwritten over 100 others and does freelance work for the New York Times, Reuters, and Bloomberg News. - LinkedIn

John ghostwrites for some of the top names in business, real estate, Hollywood, politics, fitness and healthcare. He has published articles in WineMaker Magazine, Herb Companion and Speaker Magazine to just name a few. 

John has been writing professionally since 2007, after working 13 years in Social Work and was a professional musician in the Western Piedmont Symphony for over 20 years. He has been providing services to the National Speakers Association  and the Global Speakers Federation since 2013. John is a member of the National Writer's Union. (UAW-Local 1981) 

His expertise is in business writing, real estate, small business, finance, Amazon self publishing, how to self publish a book. He had built a company that is a leader in self publishing companies
- www.johnpwriter.com

My first day went great because of John. I researched right away about ghost writers which I never had an idea about what they write about specifically. And now I do. The very first person I had a conversation with at the conference. A stranger at first that told me the conference will do me justice if I really want to make it big in the writing biz.

You see, my point is, I almost held back. But, as I open up to somebody, the universe gladly gives what I need. An encouragement. An inspiration. A push. What if we are like this everyday? Just imagine the potential that will get fired up! Because, right now, I am compelled to finish my e-book for my personal blog hoping to build a platform for my blog-to-book projects. Who knew I'd be starting my 2017 with a self-hosted blog? And that will come out this January.

3. BUILD A BUSINESS PLAN AROUND YOUR IDEA.

Amir holds a BA in magazine journalism with a concentration in psychology,
has edited or written for more than 50 publications producing hundreds of articles
and had her work published in five anthologies.
She has self-published 10 short books, including the popular workbook
"How to Evaluate Your Book for Success" and
"10 Days and 10 Ways to Return to Your Best Self". 

Nina Amir is one of the most profound writers I got the privilege of knowing. Even if she was talking to 20 people in Santa Anita A hall room of the Bonaventure Hotel, I felt like her words resonated only to me because I heard her loud and clear that having a book idea is not enough. I learned from her that you are the number 1 agent of your book. You should help your book get sold by building a business plan around it first. She was the only one I know active in writing blogs (which I researched). She does it twice a week and she maintains several websites to support whatever products she had written and it's her platform to make services available in terms of writing, editing and publishing. Her talk was the last session I attended before the closing keynote section for the conference and she gave birth to  the  authorpreneur in me.

I knew Nina from the third day of conference but I bought her books, Creative Visualisation for Writers and How to Blog a Book from the second day without hearing her talk yet. I was seriously in awe that I got to meet her because out of all the many books that were sold in the conference, two of hers attracted me the most. They are by far so helpful to me. 

4. JUST WRITE!

This is a shot of me wearing the
Viking's hat with the Nanowrimo
Executive Director, Grant Faulkner

In the NanoWriMo Pep Rally session, they encouraged us all to participate in writing a novel for the whole month of November. It was truly a moving idea that they included this in the conference because November was about to kick in 2 days after the conference.

Basically, the aim of the organisation is to guide and support writers in finishing a 50,000 word (or more) novel in a span of 1 month. I was only able to write 3 chapters, a total of 6,323 words but I aim to continue it still at my spare time. And I've never even written anything before that is to be considered a novel.

In participating last November, I learned about writing prompts, word sprints and most especially, I learned that it may help you to write in quantity first rather than get stuck with a blank paper. There may be a chance that you might be overthinking the quality of your work that you don't get to writing. So, the principle is: it's better to edit something than nothing. Who wouldn't want to have a novel in a month? It follows the saying, "If you're a writer, write!" Sounds interesting? Check out NanoWriMo's website by clicking here. 

5. DO NOT UNDERESTEMITATE THE POWER OF GOOD CONNECTION.

It's important to build a connection, have a community or a set of friends that actually would help you get to do the things you wanted to do. Surround yourself with supportive people. This is important because motivation doesn't just fly out of the window. Allies are needed when the real enemies creep in: procrastination, laziness, writer's block, despair, loneliness and lack of inspiration. Sometimes, these communities and connections, big or small keep you accountable. They may come in forms of readers, supporters, close friends and basically people who believe in you. If you put out your writing project out there for them to expect, or if you declare something that you will do publicly, and you know there are people who would be looking forward to this finished project, it's more likely you'd make it because you don't want to disappoint them. This way, you can actually consider connections as a way to success.

6. TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY.

Let's talk about the Halloween Cocktail Party we had after the second night's session. Considering the plan you have in mind in reading lesson number 3, simply knowing the experts is already an opportunity. Having the chance to hear them talk in the conference is a gift from God. Having a cocktail drink with them and see these experts be themselves at a Halloween party was unimaginable. What's my point? At any moment, there's always an opportunity. The good news is, you can also make your own opportunity by taking the initiative to talk to them, introduce yourself to them and 'personally' connect. That's something you won't be able to accomplish thru the social network alone. In a simple conference, where you can choose to stay quiet and then walk away with nothing, you can reverse the outcome by building a network of people that you can actually gain confidence from.

The 6th lesson, you can be the start of your own advancement. Chase your dream. Don't wait for the opportunity to come. Start with yourself. Be hungry. Go seek it and you'll be surprised as to how you can be lead to what you work and pray hard for.

When I was lining up for a signature for the Closing Note speaker of the conference Christopher Rice, son of the famous Anne Rice (who is known for her vampire chronicles namely, Interview with the Vampire and Queen of the Damned), I was thinking of what to ask him as he signs my book because I don't want to waste such precious time. So, I asked his point of view about the current obsolete educational system. If he agrees that "creative" is the new school, an idea that a good friend of mine and business partner had actually theorised. He stopped and sincerely lent an ear. I asked him, "What if there's a school that would offer a course covering business management, financial education and creative arts? Do you think it could survive?" And he actually gave me a sensible answer, "If you would include internet with it, it will. Because nobody is actually offering an umbrella course for the internet: photography, design, publishing and sales. These are the things that actually make the internet live. It would be fantastic if there's going to be a course for that and I bet if it will exist, it would be the most in demand above everything else." I was blown away. So, you see, seize the day! Never let a chance pass.

7. BE YOURSELF.

I am always reminded by mentors not to limit my creativity with craft and form alone. Style should include you. When you write, trust the process because this is what's going to make it unique. What you know, what you have experienced and what you might want to impart will make your story worthy to read. Remember, your story needs to be told. Yes, it's yours to tell so you don't need anybody's permission to do so. You can start at any moment you feel like prompting yourself with, and you can stop at any point you find sufficient.

with Rachel Randall,
Writing Community Editor,
Writer's Digest

These lessons are not only applicable to writing. I plan to put these lessons in everyday life because they are substantial to my purpose. Inspiring others, being of help to those in need and becoming a source of good information online are becoming a universal need since more than 40% of the entire world population have internet. And every 5 years, internet users increase to a billion. I would be very happy if I could inspire just a million with my blog.

So let me take this opportunity to put out a shout out in this post. Thank you to the organisers of Writer's Digest Novel Writing Conference 2016 for recognising a Hong Kong delegate. The efforts you've given in putting up this event is remarkable. Each of the writers' humility inspired me most.

Credits to Rachel Randall, one of the Writing Community Editors for being helpful and available. She runs to people whose questions needed to be addressed with a microphone just for everybody to hear the discussion clearly. She gave out pen and paper to each of us and reminded us endlessly of availability of coffee, links to the presentation materials and many more. She basically was everywhere and I can't help but admire how hardworking she was. I find it humbling to cater to aspiring writers while she is huge herself in being an editor. Her and the rest of the famous writers I bumped into in this conference were so down to earth. I don't have words for the admiration I have for you all except thank you.

This was a gift for my birthday month, November! What are the odds that it is the month NanoWriMo had chosen to be the writing month??? Hahaha!

Related posts:
1. WRITING THERAPY - Have you ever tried writing to yourself?
2. SILVERMINE BEACH RESORT - Looking for a place of serenity and inspiration? Maybe Silvermine can give you that peaceful vibe to write.
3. THE BEST INVESTMENT IS EDUCATING YOURSELF - Learn, burn and earn!

THE DISTINCT ART OF THE SAMOAN TATTOO CALLED THE PE'A

The movie, "MOANA", is out in the cinemas and it made me remember visiting Samoa for the first time. For a quick look, here's the trailer of this new Disney movie to give you an idea of how it is in the Pacific Islands.

My life's journey had led me to knowing about the Pacific as I built my family with an islander from Samoa. Because of this, I have known Polynesians namely, from Hawaii, Tahiti, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, and Fiji personally and I got opened to a culture that I felt so close to even before I knew of them. Their music, their food, their ways and their people have touched my life in more ways than one. At my first visit to where my better half is from, Hogan, who was my boyfriend then, introduced me to the beautiful country of Samoa, his home.

Samoa is called "The Heart of Polynesia". Its estimated population of 195,000 as of 2016 is composed majorly of its locals at 92.6% and the rest are Euronisians, Europeans and people from East Asia. It is located at north east of New Zealand and it lies almost next to Fiji. The country is composed of several islands which include, Savai'i, one of the largest islands in the South Pacific and Upolu, the home to most of the Samoan population.

Being a Filipino, I find that there are similar norms we practice the same way they do. They have huge respect to elders, family is number one and they are passionate about their roots, beliefs and traditions. I see them as Filipinos on steroids because we both own the brown skin, the black hair and the hospitality. But they have a physique like no other. They're strong and steadfast. Probably because of being solid islanders: they have the sea, the sand and sunshine. That being said, they cannot be compared with any race. They work hard for their families and they eat taros, bread fruit and bananas like how Asians eat rice. And they literally need to climb trees to get these. Hence, their muscles become well formed upon reaching the adult age.

The huge black tattoo starter
from the lower back is the
 vessel of the boat.
The huge black tattoo almost
covering half of the thighs
represent the ocean
and the journey.
 It extends to sharply
edged marks wrapping
 the thighs and
this marks the needed weapons
for protection and defense.
The rest of the tattoo is composed
of the wearer's personal journey.
Elements of the family maybe
included in it as long
as it is conforming to the
Polynesian design.
The Pe'a is a huge representation
of family, culture, and courage.
Courage to accept full
responsibility to his
family and country.
It signifies that the male wearer
is ready to take
any form of challenge.

Just like Moana's story, legends make up most of Samoa's tell tales. One very famous story from the Samoan Mythology was about the twin sisters who sailed from Fiji to Samoa carrying tools for tattooing. As they swam, they sang a song that only women will be tattooed. But as they neared the Falealupo Village in Savai'i, they saw a clam underwater and dived down to get it. When they emerged, their song had changed, the lyrics now saying that only men get the tattoo and not women. This song is known in Samoa as the Pese o le Pe'a or Pese o le Tatau. They said, carrying the pe'a, Samoa's traditional tattoo, means you are carrying part of Samoa's legends with your own story added to it. Tatau is the Samoan term for tattoo to which the English language owes. Wikipedia elaborates more on this but what I wanted to share was my own experience of seeing Hogan receive this rite of passage to becoming an apprentice for the title of being a Samoan matai.

When you hear about a Polynesian island, you instantly become interested with the adventures that go with it. Mine didn't include the white sands, the wonderful sun and the beautiful blue sea. I was introduced to something deeper which I considered taboo in the beginning.

A Samoan matai is also known as the Samoan village chief. He holds a line of responsibilities and decision making which the entire village relies to, depends on and respects. The first step in becoming one is receiving the pe'a to hail the roots of what being a true Samoan really means. Once completed, it would mark the apprenticeship to being a matai. It is extremely painful because the whole process is traditionally done. The black ink that is made up from the burnt candlenut soot is tapped into the skin using fragments of turtle shells shaped into a shark tooth in a form of a comb, a very different way on how I know tattoos are being applied, as I know only of the modern machine used nowadays. 

Therefore,  the receiver should not only be prepared physically, but also, emotionally. To help out, the whole family shows support by singing mellow songs, preparing the tapa mat where the pe'a receiver could rest and most of all, preparing food rich in protein to aid the healing in between sessions. "Having the pe'a is one of the most unforgettable milestone of my life. The pain is like no other.", remarks Hogan.

Also, receiving the pe'a is done in pairs because thru history, there had been people who didn't make it all the way to healing completely because their body rejected it or got sick along the way. Hogan's cousin took the malu (pronounce as ma'-looh), which was the equivalent of pe'a amongst the ladies and together, they are considered twins or soul mates. One is dependent of the other's energy. So basically, they have to be strong for each other. The malu is the Samoan term for a female specific tattoo that covers the legs from just below the knees to upper thighs right above the buttocks, and typically owns a finer and more delicate design than the pe'a.

This was the outlining on Hogan's back.
Notice the comb like nature of the tattooing tool.

Everything was done seriously until I made some mistakes that they find it to be the ice breakers with all these preparations.

Day 1 of Hogan's tattooing:
We were just fanning onto the artists
because it was warm that day.
Notice the elders around him
as he lies chest down.
The pe'a was marked on to his back
and the pain is supported
by the guitarist singing and
playing mellow songs.

You see, Hogan wanted everything to be documented. It is a huge leap for a Samoan to go thru the tap-tap experience (a sound so simple but pe'a men consider it traumatic) so I was taking photos. But while he was being tattooed, one of the tattoo artists' assistants saw me going to the restricted area where the tools are kept sterile. Hogan, had to get away from his no-pain cloud 9 and come back to earth to translate what the guy was telling me which was not to go to that area. So I was like, "Eeeep!" That was stupidity no. 1. 

Stupidity no. 2 comes with the way I sat at the Samoan fale where the tattooing took place. 

A Samoan fale or "house" holds many of a Samoan family's gatherings. May it be just an afternoon talk as they wait for the sunset or an important occasion, it is a place where they get together and many conversations are made. And every Samoan that has to leave home misses this setting. It is basically a hut made up of soaked coconut husks and wooden pillars that is finished up with a flat cement floor. Hogan's tattooing took place in their own fale at the back of their house. To kick start the traditional tattooing, elders, relatives and the tattoo artists had been welcomed with a Kava ceremony which is the solemn ritual of sharing a ceremonial drink. It marks special occasions, sang onto with traditional songs by the rest of the men of the family. They sit on the floor with crossed legs as a form of respect and opening a connection. As the Kava ceremony finished, I joined in to watch and document the process with my camera. When I got tired, I sat with my knees folded in front in a manner where I could hug my legs. Stupidity no. 2. Since I was wearing a skirt, I thought this was the most appropriate way of sitting down because it covers the entire end of the skirt covering any flashy treat. But, one of the elders explained in Samoa, "Forgive our guest for she doesn't know how the customs go." And Hogan got alarmed right away. I didn't understand much of the language then as compared to now so I didn't react. My full grin got erased when Hogan gave me a signal, "Cross your legs as you sit down." I wanted to melt because of embarassment. Another lesson learnt.

This is how the setting was in receiving Hogan
in the Samoan fale . The mat is made up of straw,
the back part is where the sterile gloves, materials and ink
were secured and the elders and artists take their position comfortably as well.

From 10am to 3pm, Hogan was under the artists' hands. It was pretty tiring in terms of the position he has to keep and needless to say, it was a pretty long time to deal with pain. For 9 days, it went on like that. The tattooed part on each day has to be washed off of dried blood and other elements that could infect it with so, it was overall a huge delicate ordeal that at the end of the day, you will be needing rest. Rituals go, the old mat should be put away and a new mat should be put in place to receive the man in the process of being tattooed safe and nurtured. Hogan's mom instructed me to fold the old mat. Little did I know, they even have a proper way of folding it so that negative energy or bad luck will be completely tucked away and would not get into the open wounds. So, I casually folded it the way we do it in the Philippines. I rolled it then folded it in half for easy storage. And then they laughed at me. Stupidity no. 3, why didn't I ask??? I just laughed with them. And I told all of them, the day almost ended without strike number 3.

As to give emphasis on preventing the bad energy to get in thru his wounds, there are at least 2 guards that watch over the receiver of the tattoo for the whole night and/or sleeping time he takes to recuperate. Weeks usually are given for other people's pe'a to finish but Hogan had to go thru it for 7 days straight because he had limited vacation days from work. He stayed up til the 2nd week in the village of Puipaa, his home town in Apia, Samoa then flew back here in Hong Kong. All in all, it took him just 15 days to finish everything. I had to attend to his wounds and they were massive. We continuously washed it with cold water, cleansed it to avoid contamination and cared for it by moisturising it with huge amounts of vaseline. It was unbelievable how he healed in just three days considering how big his wounds were. Since he was 18 years old, he had asked his mom to have the mark of a true Samoan but his mom only agreed to it 10 years later. But him and his family believed, it was just the right time for him to have it. He was an adult in so many ways. His body was strong and his mind was mature enough to understand what the pe'a stands for and how important it is to stay being the good example that younger Samoans would look up to.

This was taken on the day they finished the tattooing ceremony.
Leis were offered to the tattoo carriers and the tattoo carriers
offer leis to the tattoo artists' and the elders who have the same tattoo
to signify respect and gratitude. Another closing ceremony was held
where their heads were poured of traditional oil and the rest of the body for
annointing, healing and blessing purposes.
Moreover, an egg is cracked on the tattoo receiver's head
to complete the ceremony. This is a sign of welcome to the pe'a world.
This brings big pride to their families as they now own the
mark of what being a true Samoan means.

While my husband keeps the memory of the whole process wrapped up with the most painful part which is the tattooing of the puke (Samoan term for the "navel"), I keep my own memory of the beautiful Samoa thru this traditional ritual I witnessed dashed of a little bit of humor here and there and I'll carry it in my heart forever. Probably, my own daughter would go for the malu too when she grows up. I will be in full support and that would make her dad very proud I'm sure.

With all of these being shared, travel has a great way of teaching us about how we differ with our traditional ways yet, the same when it comes to having that passion for our purpose. There are but quite a few who knows about the pe'a and I'm blessed to gain such knowledge and heritage. 

This was the Kava Ceremony right before the tattooing started.
The elders gather around inside the Samoan fale to bless a special
undertaking in behalf of La'auli (Hogan) Toomalatai,
son of Faalataitaua Lauoletolo Lealaitogia'i Toomalatai
and Sifou Lototasi Toomalatai. Notice how the boys surround the fale
as the first line of protection that come together to support the ritual.
The Kava drink should be served by a young virgin woman
to signify purity and cleanliness and to preserve its sacred narcotic sedative power. 

Related posts:

1. 8th INTERNATIONAL SIVA AFI COMPETITION CHAMPION, HOGAN TOOMALATAI
 - another Samoan tradition is playing the fire-knife dance. Have a glimpse of what is it about here.

2. PHOENIX SEILEAFI BRAVE - what my daughter's Samoan name means.

3. NEW POLYNESIAN CLUBS IN HONGKY - Looking for a Polynesian club vibe in Hong Kong? Check these out!

JESSE HAMILTON JR.

Imagine how satisfying chocolate melts in your mouth. Imagine how that first kiss lingers as it numbs your senses. Think of how the sun, with its orange and purple glow, sets so slow in front of your eyes. You ask yourself, do I deserve such perfection that I know no matter what I do, it won't last that long?

With this fast paced world, a trending noise has  been created and favoured. We don't even stop and spend time savouring a good weather, more so, the rain. We neglect the power of a good conversation with a stranger in the train because we're busy with our phones. We are often preoccupied that we let nature take over right before our eyes without even admiring the course of change.

There's too much noise and this is what makes Jesse Hamilton Jr. stand out with a critical ear as he launches his own album entitled, "Come Croon with Me". With a mindful precision he has for his  first album, his music strives to let go as a form of expression, yet promises to keep you holding on because it can soothe you into taking a breather, to reconnect deep within yourself. Just like how chocolate is, that first kiss and that perfect sunset, Jesse presents his music following his instinct aiming for a natural flow and sound. He wanted the most authentic music to be delivered to the ears of his audience as how they should hear it from his live performances. His passion is to make this dream happen... and he did.

It wasn't long ago that I had featured PhilDMusic, Ariel Reonal, Ela Lisondra and Aaron Jan Mercado of their influence and success hailing music and another inspiration had graced kytedalino.blogspot.com of its renowned talent. With a long line up of performances he had graced this world with, I am in awe to be able to have an online interview with JESSE HAMILTON JR.

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

Headliner Vocalist, Dwane Jesse Hamilton Jr.

Jesse knew what he wanted to be since he was young, a privilege denied to many and an achievement right then and there.

Seeing his dad onstage ignited his drive into becoming a performer himself. Coming from a family of musicians, he dawned as a star right from Philadelphia where he was born and raised. He grabbed every opportunity starting from doing solos in church and singing in school bands. He never wasted time as he learned how to play the clarinet, the saxophone, and the drums from grade school then high school all the way to college. Such dedication is unfathomable that a music scholarship was granted unto him provided he keeps making each professor's jaw drop. And boy did he achieve that! He was taking up Public Relations (Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL) while he was majoring in Vocal Music (Florida Agriculture & Mechanical University, a.k.a. FAMU). Having a toss between the two universities, Jesse remained focused and determined in achieving his dreams that he became part of Florida A&M Marching 100 and the FAMU Essential Theatre. Now how's about that for a start?





Everybody has to start somewhere and what's truly admirable in this phase of Jesse's life is the determination in juggling all his classes "and" participating in so many extra curricular activities and excelling in them. At an early age, stardom is promised to him as he gets trained in different aspects of life: relating to the public, being dynamic in pursuit of academic excellence and the key element of how I know him, balance. He has balance. He's insane enough to push for what he loves to do and he's sane to remain grounded, opening himself up to learning, change and input from the people that surrounds him to attain a better version of him not only as a performer but also as a friend. He jokingly admitted, this perhaps is the reason why his goals change each year but that's one of the remarkable talents he possesses. Flexibility. Otherwise, he wouldn't be able to fight for the music that he wanted to create.

FIND YOUR LIGHT

Bruce Lee once said, "I fear not the man who knows how to do 10,000 kicks, but the man who practiced one kick 10,000 times." Jesse Hamilton Jr. is a living epitome who had practiced a skill 10,000 times. And more....

Hong Kong Disneyland was graced by Jesse Hamilton's
talent and commitment as it opened back in 2005.

Being part of the marching band and being able to perform in numerous events, choirs and church services, Jesse was a budding triple threat. He knows how to sing, act and is a total performer overall. Auditions short after graduation led him into gracing Walt Disney World's Festival of the Lion King stage of his youthful energy as a lead vocalist, friend of Simba. Everyday for him was a privilege to be able to perform in front of thousands and thousands of people because it established his endurance on stage and it strengthened his performance skills. The million dollar question goes: How did he do it?

Jesse puts intention in everything he does from the core and he transforms it into something extraordinary leading him to being one of the most sought after theatre performers. This opened him into embracing even more challenging roles.

Comedic roles and being a villain were gems that continuously added glitter on Jesse's crown. Aboard Carnival Cruise Jesse was given a platform of rediscovering himself over and over. Not long after cruising 3-16 day voyages around the Caribbean, Alaska, the Pacific and many more, he was given a huge break of being part of the opening cast of Hong Kong Disneyland's Festival of the Lion King.

The Festival of the Lion King is showcased both in Florida and in Hong Kong but the latter owns a bigger theatre that can hold an audience of 2,200 from all over the world. Jesse had the chance to showcase his talent together with more than 20 dynamic performers everyday since it opened. This had added stamina to Jesse. Moreover, his ability to work up an audience while dealing with a complicated stage had stretched him more than ever as a performing artist. The transition of his voice from being young Simba into an adult that saves Pride Rock from the evil Scar is remarkable. There also came a time that he was challenged to further push himself to becoming the antagonist in this world class story telling theatre show. The sensitive mind setting of switching roles takes a lot of training. But he tucked that with pride under his belt.

"The road gets rough for all of us at times.
But those battle scars help prepare you for the road ahead."

ON A MORE PERSONAL NOTE

I have known Jesse as a delightful presence. The first time I got fond of him was when he walked inside a room for a Thanksgiving Party with a platter of shrimp skewers at hand, I instantly felt his warmth. He looks at you straight in the eye when he converses and this is no way different when he's on stage. He instantly can grab people to get hooked because he comes from a sincere place. He is full of integrity. Remember what I said about balance? The ultimate statement that could justify that I guess is that, he makes himself heard thru music and he loves silence that fishing brings. He can be a rockstar and he can be a confidante. He gives sound advice and he pushes and supports you all the way. There's no dull time with him as he is full of positivity. Every person that I meet that knows him speaks highly of him, not just work wise but also with the humility that he exudes.

Jesse and I at a wig party.
It's a work and play with a sprinkle of
humility and sincerity to anything fun and spicy.

As a matter of fact, you can tell how humble he is with the kind of submission he dedicates in achieving a goal of bringing authentic "live" music thru his album. The initial project was not producing the quality music Jesse wanted so he had to redo everything from scratch. But every challenging moment gives rise to a better outcome. And the boost came from the original song he had written in honour of his brother recovering from a coma in 2012. He knew he had to release the album but he was in pursuit of a Musical Director (M.D.) that would help him out in putting it altogether. The family from the opening cast of Hong Kong Disneyland came into play. One of the lead vocalists had hooked him up to an M.D. who was very interested at Jesse's vocals. Together they released the album in 2015. In this account, a strong established connection had helped him big time. If he was too arrogant in producing the first produced album, it could've been too much of a risk. He stayed humble and seeked the right partner and was patient to trust God's timing.

Upon reaching the 12th week mark, "Come Croon With Me", had been purchased 1,000 times over. He was in awe to be selling out in New York, Hong Kong, Australia, South Africa, America and even Russia. With his well established connections to people, it's not a surprise that his music is actually loved. For the crispness of it reflects the dedication of his heart to giving time to what he treats important, friends, his craft and his audience.





But it's not just all work. For Jesse, a stage is also a place of fun. It keeps him grounded, makes him feel alive and most of all, he finds a great sense of achievement every time he gets to hold the mic and perform. It's a cliche to call a performer a ball of fire but this description just fits every number he does.

A PROMISING FUTURE AHEAD

Looking up to legends like Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross and gospel groups like  The Clark Sisters, The Thompson Community Singers, and his most favourite, Patti Label, Jesse is motivated to deliver the same way each time. Putting all his strengths together and realizing that he's a perfectionist, he aims to conform to a great demand for substantial music. May it be pop, rock, ballad, he puts his soul into it. And this had made him able to travel around the world, launch an album and this time, he plans to have a band to travel with him. He may encounter some humps up ahead but he's ready to battle with them as he discloses his secret. He said, "To anyone who's doubting their ability, talent and overall commitment to the arts, I simply say this: The race is not given to the swift but to the one that endureth til the end."

Right now, he's continuously evolving as a "Headliner Vocalist". It is a huge deal for him because he knows that these immense changes are preparing him for what he's trying to achieve for the long term, to be able to spread music and contribute greatly to the industry.

To have residency in Las Vegas, idling in the strip is his north star and he's bound to make these dreams happen because he believes in them and he sees them happening. To this, Jesse says, "Don't let the 'nay sayers' break your spirit."


Related posts:

1. PHIL D MUSIC - A one on one interview South Africa's own, Phil D, recorded on video, a first of its kind here in http://kytedalino.blogspot.com

2. THE HEAT IS ON - featuring Lea Salonga and her glorious days

3. AARON JAN MERCADO - an article featuring how an underdog ended up in London for his debut as a singer

HALLOWEEN 2016 AT HONG KONG DISNEYLAND

HALLOWEEN is starting early to make way for Disney villains to rule out Hong Kong Disneyland starting September 15 towards the entire October. No typhoons could stop the evil queen's reign for she will be the one unleashing a storm of her minions and embicles all over the park once the dusk strikes. As soon as it begins, you would feel how halloween is her favorite fright night.

The Disney friends party have called they fairy friends, have put up the masquerade ball and will be joined by harlequins but dark power will be taking over. Together with Jafar and his trusted ally, Iago, Captain Hook, Jack Skellington, Queen of Hearts, the ravens and the snakes crashes the party. Hong Kong Disneyland will be overruled by the dark power of the evil queen. At the castle forefront they turn the enchantment into a haunting event. Come and join the party this Halloween season!!!

Related posts:
1. 10 THINGS TO DO IN HONG KONG - After visiting the happiest place on earth, complete your itinerary with these other places that shouldn't be missed out as you visit Hong Kong.

2. HOUSE OF DANCING WATER - Planning to visit Macau? Watch this water show whose stage got 11 floors.

3. AFFORDABLE FOOD IN HONG KONG THAT WILL SURELY MAKE YOU COME BACK FOR MORE - One of the best things about travel is discovery. Here is a list for you to taste as you walk around Hong Kong!

PHIL D MUSIC

From time to time, I get a privilege to interview inspirational people to feature here in my site. Alongside the intention of sharing how phenomenal human race could be, I also aim to envelope these inspirational stories with my love for life. Hence, "Why I Value Life" had been more than a blog site for me.

For the first time, here in kytedalino.blogspot.com, I have invited Phil to feature PhilDMusic to tell us something about his first music video entitled "Colors". As I get to know this person, I am moved to bits of how I slowly see the kind of committed creativity he puts in making this happen. Here is the 3 part video documenting his love for life, his respect for the craft and passion for making a difference.

I will be fully indebted to all of you if you'd leave a comment or two. I hope you enjoyed watching this and again, all of these were made and done to inspire...

Related posts:
1. ELA LISONDRA - read a Filipina's story that graced Miss Saigon cast alongside Ariel Reonal, Rachelle Ann Go and many more.
2. ENTREPRENEURSHIP - the sole calling of a person is to create. Check out these people who had paved the way of creating something and then earning from doing what they love to do.
3. FLOI WYCOCO a.k.a. MR. INVESTOR - hear how a Mr. Spendor turned into becoming Mr. Investor with an advocacy to share financial literacy to Filipino overseas workers all over the globe.

Credits to my videographer: Joel Garcia for the copyrighted video.

Reminder:

These videos should not be in anyway copied or reposted without the permission of the writer, the artist and the videographer. It may be shared only in the name of inspiration and not to be used for personal gain.

FLOI WYCOCO a.k.a. "MR. INVESTOR"

Personal reader for Edward Lee,
CEO and Founder of COLFinancial, Philippines.
It's the best online financial aid for Filipinos wanting to invest on stocks, most especially ofw's
who rarely go home to keep abreast with the Philippine Stock Exchange Index.

A year ago, I had vowed to myself that I would be able to invest regardless if it's a big or small deal. I was fearful of stocks then but I've always been interested. I was contributing to a retirement scheme just because it was one of the company's policies but I have zero knowledge regarding what the allocation of the percentages are for. Moreover, emergency fund, life insurance and compounding interest weren't in my vocabulary. My android phone is more insured than I am because I am more scared with the agent's explanation that went, "If your phone gets damaged, what are you going to do? Buy a new one?". And I feel like I am not bound to breakage at all. My savings were minimal, I relied greatly in the bank for my money's growth and I relied on my company for health care benefits. I had outstanding loans and I always feel drained of my money right before the salary comes in. In short, I was being more than irresponsible in handling my finances for the whole 8 years that I am an overseas foreign worker here in Hong Kong.

with JP Adena, the Founder of the Spearhead Mission
and Josh Antolin, my co-pathfinder at the
Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO)
supporting them as they conduct
free financial education sessions.

A year after, I am participating in Spearhead Mission as a pathfinder to fulfill an advocacy for financial literacy. My stock portfolio are all in its gaining year (my money is earning 30% while I sleep). I have allocated percentages accordingly for a good rate of return for my retirement scheme as it gets saved. I have a life savings plan for my daughter that earns a compounding interest of 6-9% monthly. I have a basic life insurance that can provide assistance if I develop a critical illness and that can cover my family's expenses if I (knock on wood) die suddenly. On top of it all, I am aware of the importance of having an emergency fund, passive income and the one that schools don't teach, FINANCIAL EDUCATION.

All of these changes happened within a year. And now, I am compelled to share this with you because nobody cared to do so during my time. Nobody actually had told me that there is something that you call 'financial literacy'. If only I had been approached of a basic information about it, maybe, I could have done something with my finances earlier than last year.

The shift in my perspective happened when I attended a free seminar about Rich Dad, Poor Dad Realty Investments. From then on, I got awakened from the foolishness I had succumbed myself into thinking I 'can' work forever. Turning it into a desire that I would want to be financially free someday, (meaning, I don't need to comply to an 8-hour job, which I could spend with my family instead, because I would be having passive income by then working for me) I seeked and seeked more, the knowledge I would be needing to go further to fulfilling this dream. I was telling myself, if I need to work, it must be for something that I don't see as work. It should be something that I would do for myself because I love doing it, I am passionate about it that NOT doing it would make me rot inside.

A free financial education seminar that was conducted by Mr. Edward Lee himself with a committed
team who never gives up in empowering Filipino overseas workers all over the world.
By encouraging them to invest in the Philippines, most especially,
thru COLFinancial's Easy Investment Program.

I have met people who thought alike as I pursued financial literacy. Mr. Edward Lee even took a bunch of us to dinner at the Pacific Place for him to personally encourage each to be financially educated all the way thru. He explained to us how volatile stocks may be that night and that we might give in to our emotions if it doesn't favour us in the end. But, he assured us of a safe platform where a minimal amount of money can work greatly for us only if we would follow the peso cost averaging system that the Easy Investment Program of COLFinancial had set. This on top of a learned and disciplined mind could get all of us rich. Enlightened with its program that assures you of a well guided website in handling your stocks, the idea was sold to me right away. With the books, blogs and webinars about handling money, I've learned that big companies like this may be too big for the government to lose just in case everything doesn't work as expected, right? So, I was thinking, what do I have to lose?

Featuring Floi Wycoco, "Mr. Investor",
the CEO and Founder of The Global Filipino Investors
taking his time during a holiday trip to meet us
to fulfill an advocacy for a #financiallyliteratePH.

Last August, the CEO and Founder of The Global Filipino Investors, graced the happiest place on earth of his presence. When a colleague, who had been an avid follower of his teachings and appearances on monetary shows in the Philippines called "ANC on the Money" and "Pesos and Sense" knew of it, she had asked him to meet up. And humbly, he had given me and my colleagues a spare of his time to emphasise on the steps to follow in attaining financial freedom.

So, as for my Jollibee stocks' first anniversary, I would like to feature the person who had literally handled and personally submitted my COLFinancial application. If not for him, it wouldn't be possible.

In aiming for success, you have to make a line up of mentors to follow, stick with and look up to. For me, Floi was a great influence to how I value my capacity as a person.  Because altogether, juggling finances as a wife, mom, a  daughter, a worker and as an advocate is a huge challenge. I learned a lot from him. One greatest lesson, is he remained humble, approachable and driven. Amidst his busy schedule, of flying from Philippines to Singapore to conduct yet another session for TGFI, he found time to give me an online interview for further dissemination of an important money handling lesson. I didn't know it could be possible.

HOW HE GOT CALLED TO SERVE

"There are moments in life that you will fail on the things that you have planned to happen. It's ok to fail. The important thing is, you have to know how to stand up again and again.", this is the #hugot  (6 feet down under) response of Floi Wycoco as he emphasises on how our mistakes could serve as a trampoline for a meaningful comeback to living fully.

He was an overseas worker in Singapore himself, earning 4x of what he could earn in the Philippines. For 2 years, he had YOLO-ed himself, to living gallantly and spending lavishly. It came without any trace of guilt until his debt summed up to 7 figures in pesos. He had no savings to back it up. Right on his breaking point, he was advised by a friend to attend a financial seminar and that boosted his confidence into acting on the situation right away putting aside, 30% for his savings and the rest into paying the loans he had garnered. Hence, The 5-Step Ladder System for Investing was born.

I am personally following this pyramid.

Floi, as how he prefers to be called, had explained the importance of fulfilling each step before going to the other, to me and my colleagues when we had a brief meeting with him at Hong Kong Disneyland. It is emphasised in Step 5, steps 1 to 4 should be religiously followed before investing.

In fulfilling the first step, Floi encourages everybody to establish a smart goal first and foremost. Its importance sustains the discipline you would need as you improve your cashflow. Investments should never be done out of whim nor peer pressure as every investor should never enter anything without having a sturdy background about where they are going to put their money into.

Also, any business venture should at least start from a burning passion within the proprietor himself. This could give justice to him saying, "I won't give up!" when doubts and frustrating emotions creep in because his idea or efforts gets challenged along the way.

DID YOU KNOW?

___________________________________________________________________________

"By right, you need to have at least 3-6 months equivalent of your monthly expenses as the equivalent amount of your emergency fund. But did you know that 3-6 months rule only apply in the US workforce? Average Americans once, they become unemployed, it will take them at least 3 months to look for a new job. That will take the 3 months of savings then the other 3 months would be their average savings upon loosing work to be able to start all over again which may be used for a 2 months deposit, one month advance for house rental. That works for the US but in the Philippines, at least in a month you can have a new job already. Since we're very family oriented, the National Statistics Office had tallied a remarkable percentage of a working population still staying in their parents' house. It becomes easier because no funds are needed to be allotted for house rental advance. That being said, if you're having a hard time keeping up with 3-6 months of an emergency fund, it's better to take baby steps as putting together 1 month of an emergency fund at least to make room for funds to be saved for your investment and other business ventures."

-FLOI WYCOCO

CEO and Founder

The Global Filipino Investors

____________________________________________________________________________ 

AN ADVOCACY FOR A #FINANCIALLYLITERATEPH

From his unfortunate financial setback in Singapore, Floi's personal experience served him right. He went home to the Philippines, established himself as "Mr. Investor" by putting up The Global Filipino Investors Group. With an ultimate mission of helping other people understand how important of a tool money is in our everyday lives and that it's ultimate purpose is to help other people, he had found out that experiencing these misfortunes was necessary for him to find his purpose. And that is to be an instrument himself to fulfilling an advocacy of a financially literate Philippines.

There was an instance that as he went about making a huge change in his lifestyle, he was continuously seeing other people being irresponsible with money thru their posts in the social network. He didn't want other people to turn out like him and he realised that starting early is of most essence. Floi, being a graduate of the University of Santo Tomas, is aware that the Filipino culture makes money a sensitive topic to be casually talked about. Because of that, he aspired to have a safe platform where Filipinos would feel safe and open in raising up issues about entrepreneurship, what are the dos and don'ts of putting up a business and anything and everything about money matters.

While his intentions are true, his advocacy had expanded like wildfire. Up to this date, The Global Filipino Investors has at least 80,000 Facebook group members and 45,000 fan page followers and still counting. 

Moreover, Filipino overseas workers, who compose a great percentage of the Philippines' Gross National Product (GNP), are encouraged to invest in their own country. They also get enlightened of the great opportunities that await in the Philippines for them. They are now slowly trusting the Philippine government as Duterte sits as the 16th president. It is such a great timing that Floi, together with so many alliances (with the same mission), are becoming active because the Philippine Stock Exchange Index are skyrocketing. It is pretty attractive to foreign investors. If this would be the case that bridges are rebuilt by regaining these investors' trust as far as business is concerned, this will help greatly in stabling the Philippine economy.

THE BEST WAY TO START

Floi Wycoco, the former Mr. Spendor now Mr. Investor encourages us all not to listen to the noise and to stay focused with our goals. Awareness is key and the best way to be aware is to get educated.

The Global Filipino Investors had established the TGFI Web Academy where members are encouraged to enroll.  Experts and mentors were put together to facilitate and satisfy every Filipino's query: "Gusto Kong Matuto Kung Paano Ko Mapapalago ang Pera Ko". (I wanted to learn how to handle my finances well to attain riches.)

The Web Academy, also known as 'WeCad' covers matters regarding entrepreneurship, money management, real estate, investing, putting up an online business and the most recent is agripreneur. There are free online classes that you may want to go for a trial and if you think it serves you well, you can choose a package to move further.

Most of successful investors had emphasised on the importance of education. See for yourself what Warren Buffet, Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King, Jr. If you find it expensive, you may want to know that ignorance is far more expensive than paying for your own learning. This I promise you.

Floi also suggests the following for your own personal advancement:

1. Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki - the book that had motivated him greatly and to which he shares his great big start with.

2. No Nonsense Personal Finance by Randell Tiongson - good guide as for personal finance

3. Pooled Funds by Rex Holgado - a free ebook that will guide you to learning about how mutual funds work. These are for the starting investors that have a limited background about what to do and how to do it.

Education could also help you distinguish the "wannabes" and the "scammers" from the dedicated ones. Apart from surrounding yourself with warriors that will encourage you to keep going, it's important to be cautious of who to trust with your hard-earned money. So many people also want instant richness but it doesn't work that way. Investing in yourself is the best investment you could ever make. From there, you would know which next step you should take. So trust the ones who had been there more above all else. Yes, even if it's your friend.

WHAT IS THE RIGHT PERSPECTIVE

In everything that you need to establish, your credit score, your emergency fund, your reputation, you should have the right perspective. The best example is how we see money. Being driven to doing something about it, doesn't mean you are obsessed by its power. Understand that the difference between studying about it and hailing it are totally different things. Some people may need time to understand the concept of how money could work for them so, don't judge them that they are so "into" money. Money is nothing but a tool. But it is that important of a tool that we would be needing to help us stay alive. Also, understanding its ultimate purpose is important. And that is to help others with its abundance.

Next example would be how you see saving up for your emergency fund. Establishing a secure net for whatever the future might bring is smart. So stay focused and don't be misled by peers who tease you of not living the life. It's hard to live when you wake up the next day and all you own are debts and credit card loans. Trust me, you don't want to be there.

______________________________________________________________________________

"Just like in investing, establishing your emergency fund is a must for you as you prepare for your future but there will come a time that it may get to be a burden already. If you have the right perspective, it would not be too hard for you to understand that this is put together to secure your investments. Having the right perspective would help you get back on track once you fall to this pit of questioning yourself why saving for your emergency fund is a must have." 

_______________________________________________________________________________

There's also but one remaining perspective that you should never neglect. The right perspective towards your own family. Every change starts with a small step but the ripple that it makes towards a community is unimaginably massive. So, envision yourself far away further into the horizon as Floi encourages each Filipino to start within their families in propagating financial education. Since it is the most intimate circle we are in, having the right perspective of starting small but thinking big is the idea.

Floi's wife and father had been the pillars of his success.
They always remind him of the capabilities he possesses
in serving and that pushes himself to be at his best every time.

FLOI'S ULTIMATE GOAL

It was truly a dagger to Floi's heart when one celebrity back, when he was starting in 2000, had discouraged him by saying, "There's no such thing as an advocacy for financial literacy." But as a financial literacy warrior, he remained steadfast with his mission. And this is to create more Filipino investors and entrepreneurs and to convert at least 50% of our population to taking actions to achieve financial freedom.

Individually, establishing an emergency fund alone could be a struggle. Imagine what Floi Wycoco is facing as per challenges that could arise with his vision. But as to that challenging remark that celebrity had given Floi, later on, TGFI's accomplishments had astounded him. The celebrity was surprised that it had gained popularity in the end. This is due to the reason that there is an undeniable heed for this kind of education. Globally, the TGFI CEO and founder, aims to push financial literacy to millions of people most especially to OFW's to guide them into coming home to their families.

Here are some of the projects The Global Filipino Investors had gained acknowledgements from besides magazines, TV shows and live forums on the radio.

Being interviewed by
CNN Philippines.

One of the greatest inspiration of the Spearhead Mission
is MR. Floi Wycoco who had helped me personally
in submitting my COLFianncial application and
my colleague's JP Adena, Founder of the Spearhead Mission.
He helped me attain my dream of becoming a Jollibee
owner by being a stockholder!

One of the millions that had been touched and influenced greatly, was me. For a tribute, I would like to personally thank this humble superstar, an explosive ball of motivation, who not only believes in the Philippines success but he knows, we are all capable of being rich. Mr. Floi Wycoco, this marks the first year of my pursuit for an earlier retirement, a.k.a., financial freedom. I would like to show my appreciation with a hope that the whole world would know how you had helped me and millions out there. Bless you and your family for the wonderment of your heart. 

As you extend a helping hand to Spearhead Mission, we will forever be indebted to your expertise, experience and efforts. Thank you again and again. 

Spearhead Mission and TGFI tie up for a free financial education seminar
held at the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO), Admiralty
last March, 2016.

Related posts:

1. TEST YOUR FINANCIAL FITNESS - Take this simple test to know where your financial status is at.

2. 7 PILLARS OF BUILDING AN EMERGENCY FUND - so many budget ideas are out there but this post is about what strengths to put on your belt to be able to sustain that emergency fund you're building.

3. HOW TO SAVE HK$5,000 IN 52 WEEKS - this maybe too easy for some but it's your call to put another 0 to that figure. Just adjust the necessary payments for each week. This practice is to test you if you could sustain a certain amount of money within reach and not spending it for a year.