Everyone is a mosaic of intertwined experiences, aspirations and challenges. From a young age, I’ve been endlessly curious about the world, especially about how I could contribute to it.
I was always aware that creativity came naturally to me, whether it be literature, art, or any form of media, yet I was still navigating how to transform that passion into a career.
I was born in the Philippines, but I spent most of my childhood and adolescence in the United Arab Emirates, from age 3 to 18, which shaped my perspective on the importance of diversity. Living in a multicultural environment definitely taught me to admire and respect everybody’s differences. It pushed me beyond my comfort zone, helping me become independent at an early age, while learning how to build connections across cultures. Experiencing life from more than one cultural lens has not only broadened my worldview, but also strengthened my sense of identity, allowing me to appreciate where I come from, while embracing the global community around me.
My passion for writing started with childhood diaries, and I’ve always cherished the tangible nature of physical media, a way to preserve and hold memories. Camera in hand, I would always be spotted at every gathering trying to capture the moment, it became my way of turning moments into lasting keepsakes, and sharpening my eye for detail and narratives.
Throughout high school, I would always excel in literature classes and participate in film competitions. Writing always came as second nature to me. Beyond the classroom, I found myself drawn to storytelling in all its forms like crafting short films, scripting school projects, and exploring various creative ideas. Each project challenged my creativity, and developed my skills in communication and visual storytelling, all of which reinforced my passion for a career in the media.
At 18, I was still navigating life, questioning which career I could pursue, one that I would genuinely enjoy and feel passionate about. That’s when I discovered a media and communications course that captured everything I wanted to do: writing, filmmaking, and using my creativity to pitch ideas and craft compelling campaigns. The opportunity to bring ideas to life every day made it clear that this was the direction I wanted to explore.
Although I considered Dubai as my home away from home, I knew that choosing to study abroad was an experience I didn’t want to regret not taking a chance on, so I took up my course in Glasgow, Scotland. I met people who have shaped my early 20s in countless ways, inspiring me with their perspectives, ambitions, and experiences. Immersed in a whole new cultural environment, the experience taught me to embrace change, and appreciate the richness of so many different perspectives.
Studying abroad, and not only being away from my mother, but the life I knew in Dubai as well, it definitely came with its struggle of learning to adjust to yet another new environment. However, I kept reminding myself that with no change, there would be no room for me to grow as an individual. I always considered myself as an independent person growing up. Being the only child of a single mother, who is my greatest role model, certainly taught me that perseverance, determination and resilience is an important trait to carry in your day-to-day life.
With her being the center focus of everything that I do, I knew that I had to dedicate myself to everything I worked on in hopes of securing a career in the media industry. Towards the last year of my course and with only a couple months left until graduating, my biggest challenge was to initially get a job in the UK. But with the media industry being oversaturated there, my other option was to move back to the Philippines. Having spent just the first 3 years of my life there, coming back in my 20s was another culture shock to adjust to, a place that felt both familiar and new.
It’s often said that “ rejection is only redirection.” As my hopes slightly dimmed over time, I fortunately landed a job with Manila Standard. Now, a year into this career, I have been given the privilege of traveling to many different countries and places, such as Taiwan, several islands in my motherland, and attending numerous events.
Working as a writer for Manila Standard has exposed me to a variety of working styles, helping me grow as a professional in the media industry. It has taught me the complexity of the field and allowed me to appreciate all forms of media on a whole new level, all whilst gaining a deeper perspective from being part of the people who create and deliver that media to the public.
Working for the Manila Standard has been a constant learning experience. From researching stories to writing articles under tight deadlines, I’ve developed not just technical skills but also discipline, adaptability and grit. Each task challenges me to think critically and creatively, whether I’m covering tech innovations, lifestyle trends, or cultural events. Being part of the newsroom has shown me the behind-the-scenes effort that goes into producing content that informs, engages, and inspires readers.
Experiencing different cultures through my coverage of events abroad, has led me to meeting people from various backgrounds. Being given the opportunity to see the stories behind headlines firsthand, has given me a richer perspective on the world. It has reminded me that media is not just about reporting, it’s about connecting with people, sharing experiences, and creating content that reflects the depth and complexity of life.
As I reflect on my journey from growing up abroad and returning to the Philippines, to moving from childhood diaries to writing for the Manila Standard, it has been one of growth, exploration, and discovery. Each experience has shaped not only my skills as a writer and media professional but also my perspective as a person: curious, adaptable, and driven by a desire to connect with others through storytelling. Working in media has shown me the power of stories to inform, inspire, and bring people together, and it has reinforced my passion for creating content that matters. As I continue to grow in this field, I carry with me the lessons, challenges, and connections that have defined my path so far, eager for the stories still to come.
(Marielle Jan Erika L. Reyes is a multi-media contributor for the Manila Standard’s Tech and Mobility Section)
