Joesyl dela Cruz and success

Joesyl Marie dela Cruz. Photo by Jun Rojas, PSI

“Success is failure turned upside down. It is like a spot of light amid total darkness.” – Joesyl Marie de la Cruz

Outstanding individuals are those who go out of their way to achieve many things – excellence in their field and concern for the outside world.

For Ten Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awardee Joesyl Marie dela Cruz, passion for knowing the road to take and achieving it successfully as well as the determination to keep that passion burning are what led her to do just that – excel in school and in the community.

Joesyl is the most outstanding graduate for her batch. Another feat is being a student ambassador of the Japan East-Asia Network Exchange for Students and Youths (Jenesys) program to Japan and the WVSU alumni distinction for Campus Hero Awardee. She’s also an environmental advocate, being the chairperson of the Environmental Conservation Guild (ECoGuild).

Now, Joesyl works as an events staff and graphic designer for Red 8 Events Services.

One of the perks of working for this event organizing company is being able to interact with famous people including celebrities.

This native of Mongpong, Roxas City admitted that her journey isn’t easy. She has learned valuable lessons along the way and she wishes to share these now.

LESSON ONE: BE PREPARED
As Joesyl grew up, she realized that not all the things she wished for came true. So, to avoid being disappointed, she makes sure she has a plan B. “Nothing can be planned perfectly. I face my life every day trying to be always prepared,” she said.

LESSON TWO: SUPPORT SYSTEM
“I know, all people have heard tips about time management. But, what if the road gets rough and intolerable? All you need to hang on to your family and friends. A good support system makes everything easy. They will encourage you, take the weight off your shoulders and make you feel better,” she said.

LESSON THREE: TRUST
In her community works, Joesyl encountered challenges in time, resources and manpower. But most of all, she found it difficult reaching out to people in the community, especially the marginalized and indigenous.
“The secret starts from gaining their trust. Even if there are time constraints, still, you must do everything you can. People in the community have experienced being exploited and you must make them believe that you are not like the others,” she said.

Some of Joesyl’s community works include environmental protection and preservation, gender sensitivity, medical missions, interaction with indigenous peoples, Gawad Kalinga and being a resource speaker on varied topics.

VISION
Joesyl has a vision for herself, the community and the country as well.
“For myself, I will continue what I’m doing for others, for my family and me. I always envisioned myself as being confident and empowered as I grow older and share my wisdom and stories to others,” she said.

For the community, Joesyl hopes that people will continue to be open-minded about development. “Don’t rely on the cycle of poverty. Don’t believe that you don’t have the right to dream big. A potential will remain just that if it’s untapped and unwelcomed,” she said.

“For the country, I wish peace and consideration,” Joesyl said. In fact, she continues to pray for the country. “Since I was young, I always believed that our country is blessed,” she concluded./