CloseUp to Fame winners Reyson Yap and Carine Cabebe certainly have what it takes to be commercial models: camera-ready looks, killer smiles and interesting personalities. But behind these beautiful faces are bright minds and an exquisite sense of humor. They have great style and lots of substance as well. In fact, both graduated from Ateneo de Davao, Carine with a degree in Accountancy and Reyson in Management. Here, the two new CloseUp endorsers talk about their experiences along the CloseUp road to fame and how the power of a smile has changed their lives.
How did you get into CloseUp to Fame?
Reyson: Purely by chance. A talent scout invited me to join the auditions when I was on my way to our family-owned store in SM Davao. I decided to join just for fun.
Carine: I found out about the auditions through my classmates. They knew I was interested in modeling and that I had also joined local beauty contests.
What are your most memorable experiences during the contest?
Reyson: Our first day together, when I met all the other finalists and made new friends. We also did the shoot for the show’s OBB (opening billboard) which was a cool experience for me since it was my first time to act in front of a camera.
Carine: The things I treasure most are my friendships with the other finalists and the support I got from my family and friends in Davao. Daghang salamat to all of them.
What was the most challenging part of the competition?
Reyson: Having to maintain a fresh and camera-ready look despite having waited, rehearsed or traveled for hours. I realized that it was necessary to always looks my best because I was projecting not just my own personality but the image of the CloseUp brand as well.
Carine: I had to make extra effort to always smile and look approachable, especially on our mall tours. I also missed my personal time for introspection and solitude, which used to be an important part of my day.
What’s the most important lesson you learned from all these experiences?
Reyson: I learned to accept all of this as a blessing. It’s certainly unexpected, but it’s a gift from God, so I’m making the most of it.
Carine: Patience is definitely the most valuable lesson. I also became more confident.
Who is your biggest influence?
Reyson: My dad, Johnny Yap, has always been my idol. He’s very hardworking, loving and generous.
Carine: Since, I’m the only girl among three siblings, I’ve always been close to my mom, Babes Cabebe. I look up to her because she’s strong and a capable woman.
What do you think made you win?
Reyson: I think it was my confidence, which I knew was one of the most important things that they looked for in a CloseUp model. I got in shape for the finals and worked hard during rehearsals, but I also enjoyed it. I didn’t take the competition too seriously.
Carine: My killer CloseUp smile, of course! I didn’t try too hard because I don’t like being plastik. I wanted to be true to myself and to be appreciated for who I really am. I felt that the competition was worth it regardless of whether I won or not.
Now that you’re winners, where do you go from here?
Reyson: I’m looking forward to making my first CloseUp commercial, and if I’m offered showbiz projects, I’d like to try doing comedy shows. Light, fun stuff, since I’ve always been a jolly person. I also still want to help out in the family business.
Carine: I’m excited now to start a commercial modeling career. If showbiz projects come my way, I’m open to take more workshops on acting, hosting and dance. I’m also considering whether I will take the accountancy board exams next year.
Reyson and Carine look forward to an exciting life and career. Who knows, they may soon join the ranks of Richard Gomez, Mariel Rodriguez, Karel Marquez, Luis Manzano and other former CloseUp models who went on to become big names in showbiz.
Reyson and Carine are now ready to wield the power of smile!