Rita Iringan, Vanessa Rangadhol, Renzo Almario, Pocholo Bustamante and Julie San Jose had a common aim a year ago. They wanted to bag the grand champion title in the first season of Q-11’s Pop Star Kids. It was Rita who won in the search.
Since then, life has never been the same again for her and for the four grand finalists.
Instant public recognition, mingling and singing along with some of their favorite stars and acting on TV are some of the things that amaze them.
“I felt shocked and happy the moment I was named the grand winner. My dreams started becoming a reality,” Rita says.
Rita always wanted to be a singer. As a kid, she used to stand on the middle of the table and sing and dance to everyone’s delight. This made her parents to allow her to join Q-11’s singing competition. It also landed her a slot in Sugarpop together with Vanessa, Renzo, Pocholo and Julie.
“Aside from singing, I get to act on TV as well,” Rita shares.
The 11-year-old LH Montessori student has appeared on S.O.P, Asian Treasures and Ganda ng Lola Ko.
Julie’s story is just as interesting. Singing has made her life more enjoyable since she has always dreamed of performing the way the singing stars she only used to watch on TV do.
“Although I didn’t win the title, I’m lucky that at a young age I get to do what I want,” Julie says.
“We are happy and blessed to be given the chance to display our talents and enjoy some things we didn’t expect to receive,” Pocholo says.
One of these things is hosting. The Sugarpop will host the show Planet Q, which focuses on the environment, animals and plants. The Q-11 show features topics on plant and animal care. Televiewers will also get to see funny videos from the US show The Planet’s Funniest Animals.
“As one of the hosts, I will let kids see the beauty of nature,” Rita says referring to places like the Orchidarium and Butterfly Pavillion.
Julie, Vanessa and Renzo are also excited over the pilot episode, where they will take televiewers to Orchidarium and Planetarium. They will prove that there are exciting places to visit other than the big malls in the city and a lot of things more interesting than computer games.
“The show will serve as an eye opener to those who lack knowledge in taking care of our environment. I, myself, can give a tip or two on how kids my age can do their part in protecting our surroundings,” Renzo shares.
The 11-year-old knows smoking does not only affect one’s health but could also contribute to air pollution. He also appeals to those who carelessly throw their wastes in bodies of water.
“They’re just making our life short,” Renzo states.
Sugarpop will also render song numbers that best describe places they will visit.
Planet Q premieres tonight at 7.